Quote Originally Posted by anonymouse View Post
Rhabbi, I think it's true to say that authors (or any artist) aren't in a position to make that kind of judgement call. The 'giving birth' metaphor is true in this case. You've created something -- given it a life, as it were -- and now it's up to the readers to decide whether or not it 'works' for them. They each bring their own unique perspective to the story through which they make their judgements. Based on the foregoing comments, I'd say your story does indeed 'work', regardless of whether or not you believe so.

anonymouse
anonymouse dear,
I do think you've hit the thumb on the nail here. The creator/writer isn't the one who knows if it works. The readers are the ones who make that call. That means the story will 'work' for some and not for others. Judging from the feedback you've gotten so far Rhabbi my best guess would be your story "WORKED!!"
Now that might not be enough for you. In this case it needs to work for Ruby too, but she seems to be beaming; so quick Rhabbi, collect your brass ring and await the next challenge. Being not quite content or totally confident is part of the creative process. It might help explain why all those writers are always griping about reviews or the lack thereof.
Mad lews