Comments

I've noticed that comments can generate story reads and even more comments, so some of my comments aren't even aimed at the author, (although I hope they like reading them) but are more intended for the potential reader of that story. Would that be comment style #5?

Guy says, concerning comment style numbers, that his comments are more intended for the potential reader of any given story. Hmmmm.

How many people do you suppose open a story and then go straight to the comments, Guy? I've never ever done that. Do you do that? This isn't intended to be a snarky remark but it gives me pause to wonder whether you might do this because a story hasn't yet been validated therefore having no idea what is what. I dunno, this was just kinda confusing to me ...

I sometimes look at comments first if my experience with an writer has proven they tend too far on the harsh side of things. I comment on 99% of the stories I read so I prefer not to read something I regret opening after ignoring my instinct to avoid it. Reading the comments first has let me read stories from those authors without worrying about their style.

Not confusing at all, a simple editing tool used on rare occasion to make sure I am comfortable commenting. Maybe Guy does the same, I don't know.

CS

That definitely would. Thanks for the addition.

(I sometimes actually do read the comments before the story.)

Reading other authors' stories & comments usually just deflates my own bubble after receiving praise for one of my own. Invariably I will find similar 'great story/well written' comments from some of the same folks who left them for me......and if the story I read seemed a bit cliched or weak, the praise I got suddenly doesn't seem so special anymore. Kind of like....."I'll bet you say that to ALL the authors."

I always read previous comments first, if only to avoid simply repeating what someone else has said. And often another comment may highlight an aspect of a story that I hadn't considered - or perhaps say something I find myself disgreeing with. Either way, it's always good to read other people's reactions.

Sometimes I read the other comments before the story, and usually before making my own comment. Most often I'm reading older stories and I find that all the clever thoughts I'd had for a comment have already been made more eridutely, and probably using words which actually exist.

I often do read the comments section before reading a story, especially if it is a author i am unfamiliar with or indeed the story is older.

If reading comments before a story, it seems to me that one might find a peculiar twist or even a surprise spoiler. To me this would ruin the flow and/or enjoyment. Personally, I like surprises, twists and tricks and attempt to read with a clear and open mind. Oftentimes, I will not even bother with the validator synopsis because I want to read any given story on my own, sans static. Different strokes, I suppose ...

Not a writer but a reader and commentator.When I make a comment I would like a response Not always the case I understand some authors are not always active or indifferent. Please stop trying to place the onus on your readers

I think yankee has a valid point. I do my best to answer every comment I get on a story. As an author, Cherry Red, I feel it is important for author's to appreciate and establish dialogue with those gracious enough to read and take their time to comment. That is how to keep this a vibrant participatory site.