Why Writers Should Ignore Most Online Critics
Every writer remembers the first time someone tears apart their work.
You spend months—sometimes years—writing a novel. Then someone online dismisses it in a two-minute rant.
It can sting.
But here’s something every writer eventually learns:
Most online literary criticism simply doesn’t matter.
Not because criticism is useless.
But because much of what passes for criticism today isn’t really criticism at all.
Let’s talk about why.
When Critics Once Held Real Power
There was a time when literary critics carried enormous influence.
Before the internet, reviews appeared in the arts section of major newspapers. A small group of respected critics shaped public opinion about books, films, and theatre.
Writers feared those reviews.
A few paragraphs printed in black ink could influence thousands of readers and dramatically affect book sales.
But those critics also understood something important:
Criticism required explanation.
They didn’t simply say a book was terrible and move on. They explained why the story failed, where the characters lacked depth, or why the pacing didn’t work.
Whether you agreed with them or not, the review usually contained thoughtful analysis.
The Internet Changed the Game
Today, anyone with a camera, microphone, or social media account can become a critic overnight.
Search for book reviews online and you’ll find thousands of voices offering opinions about the latest novel.
On the surface, that seems like a good thing. More voices. More discussion. More engagement with literature.
But there’s a problem.
Much of it isn’t thoughtful criticism.
It’s simply personal reaction.
A reviewer might say:
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“I hated the ending.”
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“The story bored me.”
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“This book is terrible.”
And that’s the entire review.
There’s no analysis. No insight. No understanding of storytelling craft.
Just opinion.
The Rise of Attention-Driven Criticism
Another change has happened online.
Critics now compete for attention.
On platforms like YouTube or social media, the loudest voice often gets the most views. That encourages reviewers to become more dramatic, more blunt, and sometimes more insulting.
Shock value attracts clicks.
Unfortunately, that environment doesn’t reward thoughtful criticism. It rewards performance.
Some reviewers discover that being harsh or mocking generates more engagement than being fair or balanced.
And suddenly criticism becomes entertainment.
Why Writers Should Be Careful Who They Listen To
None of this means writers should ignore feedback entirely.
Constructive criticism can be incredibly valuable.
But writers must learn to ask a simple question:
Is this person offering insight—or just an opinion?
Thoughtful critics usually do three things:
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They explain their reasoning.
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They understand storytelling craft.
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They respect the effort behind creative work.
If a review doesn’t offer those things, it’s probably not worth losing sleep over.
One Simple Rule for Writers
Here’s a helpful rule many professional writers follow:
Only take criticism seriously from people who understand the craft.
That might include:
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editors
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experienced writers
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thoughtful reviewers
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trusted beta readers
But random internet outrage?
That’s just noise.
The Truth Every Writer Eventually Learns
Writing a novel is one of the most difficult creative challenges there is.
Anyone can criticize from the sidelines.
Far fewer people actually sit down and write the book.
So if you’re a writer facing harsh online criticism, remember this:
You’re doing something the critic never attempted.
And that alone puts you in rare company.
Because while many people talk about stories…
Writers are the ones brave enough to create them.
you might be interested in these blogs…
SEEING THINGS THROUGH A LITERARY AGENT’S EYES
THE RISKY SIDE OF SELF-PUBLISHING YOUR NOVEL
HOW TO EDIT AFTER YOUR FIRST DRAFT
