How do you tell someone?
What if you wanted (needed!) to tell somebody something, but because of circumstances you weren’t allowed to say it? Like for example, someone you knew painted a canvas. And that creation was so magnificent you felt you HAD to compliment the artist. But this artist had previously made it known to you that they didn’t appreciate your comments whatever they may be. What should you do? Surely this artist wouldn’t be upset if you were paying high tribute and offering praise right? But what if your previous interaction and circumstances lead to a current history of you not being allowed to offer comments of any kind on the artist’s work? Would you just hold your tongue? What if you told the artist the truth about how you felt and offered a glowing review of the work, surely they couldn’t get mad right? But you run the risk of that artist becoming upset because you were previously told not to offer comment regardless of intention. What a tough spot. Especially if you knew the artist might want to hear your comments. Perhaps even need to hear them. What would you do?
Not rhetorical. Seriously, what would you do?
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Comments
This situation has more to do with your personal relationship than the subject matter at hand. It may be that this person is concerned about your intensions, or harboring resentment from a previous disagreement. You should never hold back praise for any reason. On the other hand, if what you have to say isn’t a raving review, some situations might warrant that you just keep your trap shut. If all else fails, a sharp stick placed in their path could be a useful tool.
Hmmm. I’m not sure if your waivering answer of this or that helps… LOL!
“But this artist had previously made it known to you that they didn’t appreciate your comments whatever they may be” Why wouldn’t you be allowed to say that you don’t appreciate being made to stay silent?
I’d pay the compliment, especially since the artist would benefit from it. If the artist ends the friendship because of the compliment - there’s a problem there. Next time you see them, count their ears.
Ear counting? I don’t get it.
Soccor_mom, not every artist has a Van Gogh complex, surely?!
Rob, basically, if you think they need to hear it then say it. A long suffering friendship should have endured a lot, and despite previous statements of not wanting to hear praise… tell them to get over it, because the work is so good that you are driven to tell them this. Surely your honest answer will counter the hostility that your comments may initially stir up, and if not… all they can do is get mad at you and tell you to shut up, right? Also, any outward hostility is still likely to be hiding the huge positive people generally get when praise is given, so even if it may not seem like it they are probably happier with you having said it.
Please keep in mind this advice is coming from one of those young kids you so often rant about.
Good enough, youngster.
I only tell other artists their word sucks. It always made me feel better about mine. But then, I’ve always been deep like that.
Yeah, deep.
just passive aggressively tell them online through your blog, hopefully they will read it.
You read it.
pussy?
I compliment the pussy.
what are the comments?
I like complements, but I like control better.
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