An open apology.

[Commonmind]

An open apology.

I’ve been working on several books with a partner of mine, and though he may never read this particular thread, I thought it best to humble myself with an apology - both to him, and to clarify to anyone that might have gotten the wrong idea about anything I’ve said in reference to our partnership.

I made a passing comment about our particular situation in another thread, something that he perceived to be insulting, even though that was never the intent on my part. I did as he asked, and reread what I wrote as objectively as possible, and I definitely agree with his train of thought. I took for granted the fact that we’ve known one another for quite some time, believing he shouldn’t have been offended, because he should know me well enough to understand I would never have meant it that way; unfortunately, he’s right, and I’m wrong; I have quite a bit of respect for him, and I shouldn’t have said it regardless. I’m not the kind of guy that tries to insult others, especially individuals that I consider very close friends.

I’ve been writing for some years, but I’ve never been able to reach into the ethereal treasure trove of ideas and pull anything from it that was unbelievably groundbreaking. My partner, however, is a veritable nuclear explosion of creativity, and as I said in my very first post on the chronicles, is the most imaginative person I’ve ever come across. Having equally different talents, we decided to put our heads together and write stories, because that’s really the essence of what we wanted to do, to work together and create memorable tales, and share them with whoever was willing to listen.

I wronged him by understating his role, and also made a remark he found offensive, and with good reason, and I should not have said what I did. Also, though I mentioned the fact that we were partners on occasion in some of the work I’ve posted, I’m afraid I hadn’t done so enough, and again, I inadvertently understated his role, by giving the impression to new users, or those that were unknowing of our situation, that I was the sole creative force behind some of these pieces. I regret not having made it clear now; in hindsight I see the error, but at the time the thought didn’t even occur to me.

There’s a good chance he’ll not read this, a very good chance as he’s likely upset enough with me to ignore the forums so as not to stoke the flames anymore, but no matter, I would still like to issue an open apology, as well as make it very clear that we are partners, fifty-fifty, and that without him, I wouldn’t have been given the canvas and paints in which to create art. There’s also a very good chance quite a few of you will read this and be clueless, but I’m the kind of person that likes to man-up, as they say, and admit when I’ve done something wrong, even if the entire room doesn’t know who I am or who invited me to the party.


As I'm equal parts embarrassed and ashamed, I think it's time I climbed into a hole for a bit and worked on the book. Thanks.

 

[Culhwch]

For what it's worth, Commonmind, I never felt you'd denigrated, demeaned, or stolen thunder from your collaborator in any way - indeed, you were quite effusive in your paise of him in your first post. Having read that post,it was always in the back of my mind when reading anything you submitted for critique. I do hope you don't abandon us completely, because you are certainly one of the more active, astute, and helpful voices in this corner of the boards. I hope things work out.

 

[Commonmind]

Thank you Cul, and I appreciate the kind words. I will definitely not leave the chronicles; I couldn't get the soil off the knees of my jeans with extra strength industrial cleaner if I tried. I love the place too much. Things will probably work out fine. My largest concern was not so much losing my co-author, as was hurting the feelings of a close friend, something that is far more important to me.

 

[Griffith]

I think I've read the post you're referring to. The first time I read it, it didn't seem that offensive to me as well. However, at that time I thought your partner was somebody who just contributed ideas, but I see now that your relationship with him involves much more, both professionally and personally. And, if I were him I would probably have reacted the same way, considering that his condition does not enable him to write proficiently, so it's kind of a cheap shot to say that he can't write his way out of a post-it-note. Your friend seems like a very creative, supportive, and considerate business partner and friend. I would also not want to lose a dear friend like that. I'm sure that if you give him some time alone, he will get over it and you two will be friends once again. However, in the future it would be wise to consider his feelings when you refer to him or the books you've published.

Oh and by the way, I'm not trying to make you feel worse or anything. I'm just trying to help you see the situation from an outsiders view. I cannot claim to know everything about you or your friend, so my above comments may be inaccurate or misleading. I ask for your forgiveness if that's the case.

 

[mosaix]

A good post Commonmind. You are to be commended.

 

[jenna]

I never thought it was offensive either, but perhaps because I understand the relationship, given that I have the same arrangement with my sister with our long awaited TV script. She is the Commonmind, and I am the other dude!