Quality of Writing

I polish my craft, I hone my style, I work my fingers and then I read an "Oprah" picked novel and discover that craft, style, and work sometimes have nothing at all to do with success.

Recently I read one of those "Oprah" picked novels. Point of view completely distracted me in this piece. Everytime someone spoke, the point of view shifted to that person's inner most thoughts as they spoke. I became distracted with that but continued reading.

I did not like the main characters. One of them was completely despicable and the protagonist did not fare much better in my eyes. I never understood her motivation for throwing her life away with the despicable man. Yet I finished the novel.

Why?

Because the story held my interest. I kept hoping I would find a redeeming quality, a reason for actions, something to explain. It never came, but I turned each page hoping it would happen.

So is story more important than craft and characters? I still maintain that craft and style go hand in hand and the characters must remain with us. I also believe that protagonists must have some likeable charactertistics. I do not want to feel dirty after reading a story as I did with this novel.

All I can do is continue on the path I have chosen and remain true to my ideals for my writing. And if Oprah calls I'll say, "Why thank you very much for finally choosing a novel that combines craft, style, characters, and story into one profound experience."

Oh, yeah!