Join the best erotica focused adult social network now
Login
NymphWriter
Over 90 days ago
Bisexual Female, 56
United States
Forum
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by Annamagique
I apologise if I appeared not to understand MM's comment but, in fact, I was using his style to illustrate my point about the kind of language that proliferates here. I agree entirely with what he said.
My point is that the readers opinions don't really seem to count so number of views, scores, comments, etc. are irrelevant.
Also an opinion.
I would also like to point out that I would never disrespect Buz (and register my surprise that his view count was so low) or any of the most excellent writers here and I agree that Lush is a great place to hone ones skills but the competitions are definitely flawed.
I probably will enter another... maybe, because when my work is read more than 17,000 times, considerably more than all of the other entries (and most of my other stories too) then I am very happy.
I think the subject was too controversial for the judges to even consider letting it in the top ten but there also I am pleased about the level of debate it generated and I thank most sincerely all those who left comments and voted whether positively or negatively.
Buz already addressed the story view issue. I will be the first to admit I haven't read any of the entrants (but I intend to very soon starting with the top three), but I have learned that in most instances... the judges had it right from the start. I will say that my only "Famous Story" hit at the right time and had a record number of views. Yet I have older pieces that have hardly been read. It's just who is on at the time. It does suck when a story with a lot of views doesn't place as well as it should.
I think we need to trust that the judges once again got it right.
Unicorn Wrangler
My current avatar is because it's back-to-school season and I'm really a teacher. So I thought I'd have some naughty fun with a fantasy that some folks have had at one time.
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by MadMartigan
I knew before posting my story that there were only going to be two spots left. Buz was an easy place right off the bat. Pun intended.
Fucking wanker writes the humorous raunch too fucking well. Hard to compete with such damn fun reads.
Good show, bro. I think you overestimated my entry. I've been outta the game too long, mate.
*I haven't read many of the entries due to lack of time, but I read a few of the top 10 and each is deserved.
I couldn't agree more with what you said about Buz. He's an amazing writer who has worked to raise the bar of excellence in erotic writing.
Quote by Annamagique
Congratulations to the winners and runners up but if the kind of language required to win one of these is such as is displayed here there Forget it. I will not enter another.
The most viewed story and not even a top ten? Really?
And I'm sorry if this sounds like sour grapes, maybe it is.
I think you misread what MadMartigan was trying to convey. He wasn't being disrespectful to the other writers who entered, he was praising an amazing writer. If you want to enter a writing competition where the story with the most views wins, try another site where the writer with the largest fanbase wins. Here at least those writers who might not have a fan base like Buz (or someone like him) can still win or at least make Top 10.
Is it frustrating when you work hard on a story and it doesn't make the Top 10? Fuck yeah it is. But to lash out the way you just did is truly unnecessary. Burquette, Buz, and Gilrenard won gold, silver, and bronze medals with their stories (pun intended) after what I'm sure had to be a difficult judging. Even those who earned a spot in the Top 10 did so with amazing writing and story construction.
Maybe there should be a Top 20, or a Top 30. (insert sarcasm font here.)
If you choose not to enter another Lush story comp, that is your choice. I didn't enter this comp because real life got in my way and to be fully honest, I didn't have a decent story idea anyway. I hope when you look back at what you said, you'll see that maybe you did misinterpret what MM had said. Either way, Lush is packed full of amazing writers and is a great place to practice and build your writing craft. Once again. major congrats to all the entrants and especially to those who placed in the Top 10 and our three big winners. The story comps help bring out some of the best in our writers.
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by Buz
As a senior moderator, I can say that our suggestion is to place your story in the category that it fits the most. Use the tags to further add to that.
We consider the category part of the site to be one of its major strengths and it will continue as it is.
My personal feelings are that Lushstories is the best organized erotic story site on the internet. It is what attracted me to join this site to begin with.
This. I've seen many a good story get re-categorized to better fit where the story is going or its overall theme. The Mods are amazing folks who work to make Lush the awesome site it is. I get it can be tough to figure out where a story should go. I like the way the categories are set up, and the addition of the tags helps focus the story so you know if there might be something you will enjoy, or dislike.
This is why the system works. Could we use an extra poetry category... maybe. However, we we do have is some great categories and even better authors.
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by Ping
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experience on this matter.
A few things...
Not once have I referred to myself or any of my past or current entries. Please do not project what you 'feel'.
Take my words at face value. If you re-read my initial post, you will see they were not 'bitches' but observations and a request.
In addition, I have spoken with many before, almost since the day I joined, inquiring about the process. My very first story
was a competition entry. When my stories are good enough, I trust they will be recognized. Until then, I continue to work
and learn from both my successes and mistakes.
Like anyone else, I'm well within my rights to "project what I feel" when I post in the forum. I did read & re-read your initial post... the one I quoted... and it read to me like you were "bitching" and complaining. I shared my thoughts about comps here and other sites and how I felt you were reacting.
Quote by Ping
I too have assessed 'things' using rubrics, scales, etc. I've created them too. A rubrics does exist here for judging.
The question/discussion is how all writers, especially budding ones, get access to what the judges are looking for.
Now, I've always wondered what it takes to write a winning story and the simple answer is talent and luck. When a comp is set up, Nicola and her team (or it might just be her for all I know) set parameters including word count and theme. The comp is open to any member (as far as I know, Nicola has never banned anyone from entering... but I could be wrong) who is willing to write a story. The 10 votes minimum can be a challenge for some, but as I stated before, some of us will
our friends to make the cut. After that, we put our fates into the hands of the judges.Quote by Ping
For you to say that the way winners and finalists are chosen, "... is more than fair... ", implies you know something more about the
process than most people on this site. After this discussion, a few more may know that too. My suggestion is that everyone should
know that, not just those that have been participating members for a number of years.
Remember my comment about sour grapes... yeah... look above. Now, if you had bothered to check you'd see I've never (yet) won a comp. I have been blessed with Top 10 and an RR a few times, but that's the best I've ever gotten. I have read a few comp entries that the moment I read them I said to myself, "Well shit! I just lost... maybe I'll make Top 3." It's not because I know anything special... it's because I recognize amazing quality stories that fit the category perfectly. Twice I've been correct.
Quote by Ping
There is much misinformation about the process. Some, including me, were incorrectly told total views were part of the criteria.
Do what? Have you ever read the standard story comp rules? I have. While Nicola (and her team if one exists) sets the parameters for a comp... the basic rules remain the same. You must have acquired 10 votes and no characters under 16 having sex. Nowhere that I can recall (and I'll be honest that I can't find the link I'm looking for) that those votes must be all 5's. Now, if Nicola doesn't set a word limit or minimum, the maximum should be around 10,000 words. Nicola, Liz, or any other Mod, please correct me if I'm mistaken.
Quote by Ping
Not once have I "...publicly bashed the site... " I clearly said I care about it. That is why I risked backlash for this discussion.
I have also not said that this site should be like XYZ site. The comparisons are moot. This is the best site. Period.
However, to remain the best, it still needs to push itself to remain on top.
Fortunately, after a number of posts and replies, the process appears to be a bit clearer. Based on this new information, I will
offer a few suggestions that I hope will be considered for implementation.
Thank you.
G
Actually, you did "publicly bash the site" the moment you stared whining about the comps. If you had really wanted an answer to your so-called question, you would have sent a PM to a Mod. I'll be the first to admit I don't always agree with the judges, but I don't publicly whine about it either. I just accept the fact that I must do a better job in the future.
Now, I do agree with you that Lush is the best and a superior story site for multiple reasons. I feel Nicola & the Mods work amazingly hard to keep it that way. While you and those who agree with you will call those of us who questioned you names are also entitled to their opinions, remember that you started this and thus, you got both those who agreed with you and those who disagreed with you.
Oh yeah... my final thought... I read you list of "improvements" for the comps and all I can say is I agree 100% with Liz as well as her criteria for what makes a good story. That is advice any writer can use and as she said, it's really common sense. So, I hope you take her advice... as I know I will... and when you enter the next comp... you might have a winning story.
Peace
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by Ping
Competition Rubrics Required
I've mentioned this a few times before, but never publicly like this.
Now that another competition has come and gone, I'd like Lush to
provide competition entrants with a guideline on how the entries
are judged. Not as detailed as '5 points for every use of the word fuck',
but a guideline for what judges are looking for.
As it stands, current competitions are open to criticism. We see RR complaints
everyday with people complaining about favoritism. This will not likely
change unless each story is deemed to require a minimum number of mods
read it, not just the initial verifier. I'm not advocating that.
I am advocating for a transparent and accountable method of entry reviews.
I feel this rubric will further increase the quality of entries and minimize the
perceived bias, whether true or not, that many feel exists on Lush. As it stands,
no one knows how winners and finalists are chosen.
Competitions should be unbiased, and proven that they are. However, given
the nature of a literary competition, subjectivity will always play a role. That
role should be minimized as much as possible.
Please consider my request and implement it prior to the next competition.
Thank you!
G
Have you ever entered a story competition another story site (i.e.: the competition?) I have and let me tell you... it's often a popularity contest. Here, we are required to get 10 votes, which really isn't that much. Sure some of us
our friends to make that minimum possible (I'll own my part)... the way a winner is chosen here is more than fair. Now, there will always be a story that someone thinks doesn't deserve an RR or an EP, or a spot in the top 3 or the top 10... that's called personal opinion.Yes, most of us know that if Liz or Sprite enters our chances are extra low, but we don't quit. If I see certain authors I do worry my entry won't be good enough. I've made Top 10 a few times, but I've yet to break the Top 3. However, I don't publicly bash the site... I work to improve.
As someone who's used a rubric for evaluating essays, I can tell you that certain things like spelling, punctuation, and editing will be on the list, but not high on the priority. A well crafted story more often than not will shine through. Plus, if a "gem" doesn't get recognized, a Mod will award it an RR and possibly recommend it for an EP. I have never envied the fine judges nor have I ever wanted their job. Not because they can't enter, but because they have to pick from a plethora of amazing stories and often argue for the one or two they fell very strongly about.
While I did read you other comments within this thread... I still feel you're suffering from a case of sour grapes. Bitch in private... praise in public.
Unicorn Wrangler
For once I'm glad I wasn't able to enter (due to real-life situations) after seeing the winners and the Honorable Mentions. Damn... talk about some amazing talent! Congratulations to you all!
Unicorn Wrangler
A dear friend and an awesome writer both here & the blue site.
Unicorn Wrangler
We get you don't think it's right you have to give up 1-2 hours of your life to get your child an iPad issued by the school... but we have put in 12-14 hours trying to teach your child how to read, write, add, subtract, the history of this country and the science behind how things work so to listen to you bitch about football practice, soccer practice, etc. is unnecessary. We've got children, husbands, wives, and other commitments that we must see to as well. We try to let you know well in advance how this will work. Bring your stupid ID and your fucking patience. Stop yelling at us for doing our job because trust and believe, we'd rather be at home with our family than dealing with your shit.
Unicorn Wrangler
Love the user name and noting wrong with a sexy man from Texas. After all, the build them bigger and better in Texas.
Unicorn Wrangler
How are the winners going to be chosen? Do the Mods vote or will the members? Either way I think those with way more artistic talent that myself will be able to create some amazing designs.
Good luck to those who come up with the new designs. I'm looking forward to the changes.
Good luck to those who come up with the new designs. I'm looking forward to the changes.
Unicorn Wrangler
Lush has one of the best turn-arounds for stories, plus you have a real human (well... except for WSCLG... he's a sex machine) reading your piece. Holiday periods or comps will cause some delay as story comp entries tend to get priority due to the deadline for votes. Gold & platinum members do get priority (which is why you pay a bit more for said privilege) but overall, the team does a hell of a job getting stories out or returned. Re-submissions often get reposted even faster depending on how much editing that is done.
Of course, this is based on my personal experience.
Of course, this is based on my personal experience.
Unicorn Wrangler
Well it's about damn time you got recognized for all your hard work!
Unicorn Wrangler
The order is irrelevant... but here's my top 10
1. Ever After
2. Grease
3. The Wizard of Oz
4. A Christmas Carol (with George C. Scott)
5. It's a Wonderful Life
6. The Sound of Music
7. Easy A
8. Shallow Hal
9. Some Like it Hot (I love the ending)
10. Shrek
1. Ever After
2. Grease
3. The Wizard of Oz
4. A Christmas Carol (with George C. Scott)
5. It's a Wonderful Life
6. The Sound of Music
7. Easy A
8. Shallow Hal
9. Some Like it Hot (I love the ending)
10. Shrek
Unicorn Wrangler
Saw: Suicide Squad & Pete's Dragon
Want to see: Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them & Doctor Strange,
Want to see: Fantastic Beasts & Where to Find Them & Doctor Strange,
Unicorn Wrangler
Wow! I never really liked the old ones so I always found my own, but now you've got some awesome new avatars and a great way for a newer user to find a sexy avatar until they get more comfortable with the site. Great job Nicola!
Unicorn Wrangler
Maybe Google . I gave up on Messenger years ago due to it being so glitchy and easily hacked.
Unicorn Wrangler
Dammit! We bought a house and had to move so I never got two minutes to write. Oh well... good luck to all those who wrote what I'm sure are awesome fucking stories (pun intended) and I can't wait to see who won.
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by HeraTeleia
Okay, I had/have several ties. Using the incredibly sophisticated method of names in a paper bag to decide the second winner. Might use randomizer.com.
NIKKI703 is the overall first place winner her guess of the U.S. taking home 46 (as it did). Nikki, you will receive your shiny new Platinum Membership on 2 September 2016.
Everybody else, I'm working on it. If you think I've made a mistake, please see rule #whatever that says my decision is final.
Quote by HeraTeleia
So. I used Random.org to sort out the ties, and congratulations, JessieCD, you've won a Platinum membership. You'll receive your shiny new badge on the 2nd of September.
Thank you to everyone who entered and please remember, there's now a "Donate" button at the top of the home page--you can click it and throw money, any amount of money, at the site any time you wish to do so.
Congratulations to you both! It was fun to have a reason to pay attention. And thank you HeraTeliea for being so generous.
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by Verbal
I really wanna see Wicked.
If you get the chance I totally recommend it. Every time I see it I love it that much more.
I'd like to add:
-Cabaret (the stage version)
-Riverdance
-A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder (hysterical and worth seeing!)
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by sprite
oh, right, it's silver? sorry. lol - i've never been good about keeping up with that stuff - thanks Nymph!
That's why you have us minions to do your dirty work for ya hon!
Unicorn Wrangler
Nicely designed. Lot's of stories and clearly, a lot of friends. Always a good thing.
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by sprite
buying a bronze membership eliminates the ads. other than that, you're out of luck - ads help pay for the servers, and the're not cheap
Don't you mean Silver? I'm only basing this on what Nicola has posted here.
https://www.lushstories.com/forum/yaf_postst41205_New-Freemium-Membership-Model-for-2015.aspx
And really... $20/year is a deal.
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by HeraTeleia
It'd be nice if when a member deactivates (as opposed to deleting) his or her account, something--an asterisk or whatever--appeared on their avatar, so that they may be more quickly identified and removed from one's friends list.
Trying to clean up my friends list and am finding cobwebs everywhere. Thank you.
I like this idea. I hate trying to send holiday comments and wasting time with deactivated accounts. Plus, then I know they aren't available to chat or comment.
Unicorn Wrangler
Make sure the fire department is on speed dial when you light the candles on your birthday cake.
Unicorn Wrangler
Quote by a_chica
this site has all of our stories published there ... I mean ALL
http://en.xporno.tv/47947.story
Not only did I find some of mine, but also stories of some friends. Disgusting.
I know this isn't the first time and a huge thank you to Liz for attacking these sites when she finds them.