feitelberg

(A) You wrote a fricking novel. Let that sink in. Of all the people in this world who say they want to write a book, I'd hazard about 5% actually complete the goal. So congratz.

(B) So what? Gamers are people, too. And some of SFF's best fans. Some excellent writers have written tie-ins and other books that certain folks consider "gamer" books.

(C) Opinions are like a**holes, everybody's got one. The more you get your writing out into the world, the more critique you're going to receive. Develop a philosophical attitude about it early. You'll sleep better.

Thanks Jon for responding.

I think part of my point is if my novel is gaming novel is will turn some people off. Of course, probably won't know it is unless told. Your point about gamers being people is a good one. I am a gamer myself. So point taken.

But the other part of my post is this: if my novel is a gaming novel so are lots of others that I would never describe as such. So why label me if you aren't going label the others?

Human beings like to label things. The important thing is to stay true to yourself and your writing. That unique perspective is something no one can take away.

I know just how you feel. Take my debut. I got a lot of great praise for it, but some knocked it as 'lacking originality.' Did I want to find those people and shake them and shout "are you insane? Do you know how much depth you've blithely written off with your off-the-hip assessment?" But, in the end, you just have to suck it up and move on. You control the content, but once it goes out into the world, there ain't a damned thing you can do about it.