Mastodawn

As a Dutch and severely dyslexic writer, I have learned that there are two types of pointing out an error on the interwebs.

One, cares about the content, spots a mistake, politely and discreetly informs the author.

The other, points at the error in full snark, does a spiteful little dance of superiority, loudly announces it to the universe, uses that small error to dismiss the entire content and belittle the author while snorting their own farts.

The difference is intent, if it's genuinely to be helpful, then by all means, reach out if you spot an error in any of my writing. I can be blind to them, so that genuinely helps me. But if you're simply looking for a reason to feel superior, kindly, piss off.

#writing #dyslexia

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Owen G. Richards - ANTIFAscist Jun 7

@HeliaXyana

I've seen both types, and would like to think I am the first kind. 😇

Although I have also discovered there are also two types of recipients: 🤔

- those who appreciate your efforts to be tactful and helpful
👍

- and those who are NOT INTERESTED in whatever it is you are trying to help them with. 🤦‍♂️

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Lydia Vvinters Jun 7

@Owen_G_Richards

Ah, very true. And of course, you are. Your intent would always be to help.

That reaction might be because on some platforms, you're absolutely flooded with the bad kind of pointing out errors... It is tiresome and can make you assume all offered corrections are given with selfish intentions.

Fedi culture is much nicer in that regard. Here, you'll get all caps corrections if you misidentify a bird or type of moss, but that's not a case of snark, more a case of passion with a sprinkling of general neurospicy.

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Owen G. Richards - ANTIFAscist

@HeliaXyana

When I make a suggestion - it is with an apology first (because I use DM to communicate privately with the individual concerned, because "we" have no need for public exposure) then with a suggestion/observation based on what I perceive as the concern. Always addressed as "IMHO - use/lose my ideas".

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Lydia Vvinters Jun 7

@Owen_G_Richards

I wish the apology wasn't necessary, but because of the negative track record of the interwebs as a whole, for now, it helps. This is certainly the way to do it. Doing it like this shows an appreciation for the content and a genuine urge to help. I always feel a little honoured when someone takes the time to point out a mistake in such a way. I put significant effort into my writing, especially since it doesn't come easy for me, so I appreciate such help.

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Owen G. Richards - ANTIFAscist Jun 7

@HeliaXyana

When anyone helps me, I always feel (at least a little) honoured by their gift of time, effort and patience.

As one who has benefitted from such generosity, I repay those favours whenever I can, in the most appropriate manner - starting with the absolute minimum requirement: respect for the individual(s) concerned.