Online Writing: Commenting is a Joke
"Great article", "Nice share", "Good info". It’s these types of comments that really irks me to the point where I find myself thinking that most online writers are like scavengers. They scrap the bottom of the barrel for that feeling that "someone might now actually read my work."
Wrong buddy. That person who left that most generic of comments is just like that guy from school who made friends by offering sweets and money for your attention, they want something in return.
In lots of ways I get it. An “eye for an eye” type thing. But its all crap. The person who commented didn’t actually read your work, they just cast their eye over it and left thier mark just to show you they were there in the hopes that you will return the favour.
I’ll admit, when I first started with Triond in 2007, that guy with the sweets was me. I wanted attention. I’d like to think I left more personal comments that mean’t a little more because I actually read most of the posts I clicked on. But hey the bottom line was, I wanted to be read and these comments were the way forward. I was loyal though, and still am loyal, to the people who read my work but, lets be honest, we are all after the same thing, page views.
Although most of the “friends” I made on Triond don’t know it, I still read, and read, their work if it sounds interesting. One thing changed however and that was whether I made a comment or not. I was, and still am, so fed up with generic comments that I stopped unless I actually genuinely enjoyed that particular piece of work.
And that is the way it has stayed. I guess the charade for me is over. So heres the deal, if you like my work make a comment. If you don’t, don’t. I’ll do the same.
More work you might like to refrain from commenting on unless you really want too:
Triond: Has a Bad Reputation Led to Less Page Views?
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Tags: commenting, page views, triond, Writing
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September 6th, 2010 at 9:11 am
*chuckles* That is a creative way to put it.
September 6th, 2010 at 10:20 am
Amen to that Chambo. You should only comment if you have something to say – a good rule for life in general.
September 6th, 2010 at 10:34 am
mostly seconded
September 6th, 2010 at 2:37 pm
That is pretty much way I don’t comment as often as I used to. I do read or glance at all my friends material but if it is a subject where I am so unfamiliar with the material and the author hasn’t offered much insight, then I don’t leave a comment. Most people know if I am reading if they find that I have bookmarked their article.
I find many articles that are interesting but i might not have anything to say that offers the author anything. I see many comments such as read this…….
Blessings,
Chris
September 7th, 2010 at 5:28 am
Nice share. Only joking! A very honest article. Ironic that all those “generic” comments might “pay”. What annoys me is messages begging me to view x or y… My only defence is that “good write” or something is all you can say. Myself I get some very positive comments but not enough of em! PB
September 7th, 2010 at 8:05 am
I just started making generic comments a few weeks ago because I was hoping that would lead readers to my writing. But I’m starting to realize how frustrating those comments can be and asking myself what my purpose is … do I want stats? or do I want real critiques on my writing so I can get better?
September 7th, 2010 at 3:48 pm
By mistake I clicked the liked it. So you are not a scavenger now. Let’s see how long you will be like that.
September 7th, 2010 at 11:43 pm
@ Fornis
I’ve commented enough here at Triond in the passed four years to not care about who comments on my work anymore although I am pleased when someone does give a genuine comment. I just feel like we need to be a bit more honest. Comment if you actually like it or the piece has given you the need too like I think this piece has for you. You are right though, more comments = more views.
September 13th, 2010 at 5:28 pm
Very straightforward article. And I agree with you have written here. I guess some people are gifted in the art of giving comments or opinions while others are not.