"Sometimes you're not even sure which of your stories were failures. There are things I've written that I thought were complete catastrophes when I finished with them that have gone on to generate some of my most positive feedback"
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In this quote, Len Wein touches on the frequently unpredictable nature of creativity and the subjective evaluation of one's work. The essence of what Wein is communicating is the concept that creators, no matter their experience or skill, can deal with accurately examining their own work. The passage reflects on the complex and sometimes distorted relationship in between an artist and their productions.
Wein starts by acknowledging a typical experience amongst developers: unpredictability about the success or failure of their work. This unpredictability can originate from the creator's intimate participation with their work. Frequently, they are their own harshest critics, acutely knowledgeable about the defects and shortcomings that may not be as apparent to an outside audience. This self-critical viewpoint can result in doubt and confusion about the quality and reception of their stories.
The 2nd part of the quote highlights a paradoxical yet uplifting reality in the imaginative field: what the creator might consider as failures might end up being well-received by others. This recommends that creators' individual judgments do not always line up with audience perceptions. What Wein viewed as "complete disasters" may have resonated with readers in methods he did not anticipate. This inconsistency can develop because audiences bring their own analyses, experiences, and expectations which can vary greatly from the initial intent of the developer.
Additionally, this quote speaks to the broader idea that the effect of creative work frequently transcends its technical merits or the creator's initial expectations. Positive feedback can come from unexpected corners, and a story's emotional credibility or relatability can eclipse any viewed story failures.
In conclusion, Wein's quote works as a pointer of the unpredictable nature of creativity and reception. It encourages creators to welcome vulnerability and maintain an openness to the varied and unexpected reactions their work might elicit, stressing that what may look like a failure to the creator could potentially hold great value to others.
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