Perception is Everything (and you can’t change other people’s perception)

Many writers, indeed many readers, complain about an ‘interpretation’ or critique of their favorite piece of writing.  They can say, rightfully, that the critic didn’t understand.  While this may be true, perception is everything, especially in the writing business.  The best writers can make you see what they see.  Still, as clear as you hear the voice of the narrator, what the reader perceives will be different.  There is no way for a writer to keep his story ‘pure,’ after all, he (or she) can’t even get that story out of their head the exact same way they pictured it.  If a writer can’t be true to his or her own perception, expecting it from a reader is completely unrealistic.  If God can’t manage it in 2000 years plus of history, what makes writers think they can?  The best you can do as a writer, is be as true to your perception of your story as possible.  Be true to the voice in your head, listen to your editor, and follow through.  The voices in your head are counting on you…