Frizan already commented on the discourse above, and I don't think anything else really needs to be said about it. But I've had a front row seat to all sorts of "Critic VS writer" debates, and I've got a few words I'd like to share with any of our contestants or potential future contestants.

[b]The people critiquing your work took time out of their day to read something you wrote, and even more time to write something about it.[/b] It is up to them if they liked it or not. While they should be respectful, they are not obligated to walk on eggshells. You are punching well above your weight class telling a potential voter how they should talk to you. You should only thank a voter for their time or ask voters for clarification if you don't understand something. [b]Arguing with voters doesn't make you look good.[/b]

With the above in mind, [b]you don't have to respond to every comment that gets posted about you, your work, etc[/b]. We all want to talk, but I've found that there are a lot of situations where silence is the best option. When I have the displeasure of dealing with something online, I try to fight to urge to respond as much as possible. Carrying on a hostile conversation with argumentative people just extends the argument. Which isn't a surprise, but it's something we tend to forget when we are feeling passionate. But it's important to keep a clear head. These people don't [i]deserve[/i] your attention. [b]While you shouldn't argue with a potential voter, you can ignore them and discard their suggestions.[/b]

Haven't had much time to sit down and read stuff that isn't RP related. But I hope to have my reviews and vote up over the weekend.