faery-lights - 2004-03-12
curiosekwe - 2004-02-10
splash-girl - 2004-01-09
shaynasanerd - 2003-12-24
poetgrl224 - 2003-11-30
2003-07-22 :: Ghostiness

Dramatic Un-Enactment

Style
A vivalicious design, very neat, with a large picture—I’m sure quite sure what to make of the picture, frankly. I assumed it was a band of some sort, but now I’m thinking it’s just a nice picture. Really, I’ve been looking at it for a while, and I have no friggin idea—maybe I’m just culturally ignorant, thanks to years of hermitage. But it’s a nice layout, well organized and everything, in classic beautified style—plus the font is easy to read. On the bottom you have the popular Random-Surrealism Generator and that counter I find so ugly (not that it’s your fault). All-in-all, very nice.

Substance
Huzzah! A woman with a strong voice, fresh viewpoints, the chutzpah to share them! And least, usually-- this broke my heart- never, ever, ever edit an entry to make it less “harsh” or “offensive”! Your entries often bring up subjects that are very interesting—and it’s so nice to read something beyond the gossip, whining, and boring daily rundowns that clog Dland. On the other hand, I often find myself itching to write and disagree with your conclusions, or at least point out things you should take into account. For example, while I totally relate to your loathing of “girly” shit (this entry) and have even written about it myself, there’s so much you don’t touch on, like Why this happens, and What should be done. And I totally disagree with your inclusion of Tenacious D, a unique and brilliant comic band into a list of mindless fuck music. (thisentry)-- plus, there is some good rap, it’s just very rare (like with all genres). You certainly seem to idealize past generations, which I can relate to—at least, I could, before I started studying history, haha. But, just the fact that you’ve made me care enough to disagree is impressive. I think you’d benefit from more interaction with your readers—since you actually express strong opinions (YAY!) you should initiate a give-and-take with the audience. This way, you’ll refine (no, I didn’t say change) your judgments, and open up important issues to conversation. And communicating with your audience is what it’s all about, right?

Suggestions
So, for that, I’d suggest you either activate comments on Dland (if you’re willing to pay for gold membership), or get a free forum from bravenet (though you’ll get pop-up ads). Point is to engage the reader, and develop your own convictions. I like the idea (here) of “ranting” about something each day, but only if you give a fully thought out and defended rant—you’re well on your way, but still need to flesh things out. I love when chicks are sure of themselves, proud and brazen—just expand.
As for the look, I’m just not sure how the image relates to you. See if your designer would mind you switching to a more personal image, or at least explain why you’ve chosen this one.
A few random things: Do NOT give your real name and location (here)! You’re asking for creepy perverts to hunt you down, sad but true. Make up a pseudonym (what, you though Jessica Lovejoy was my real name? :) Archive your older entries, and maybe do a “best of” page. And never, ever apologize for your ranting. Embrace it!

B
You’re well on your way to greatness—keep it up, be brave and outspoken, and bring your readers into the conversation.

Jessica Lovejoy