Why Has My Writing Pissed Off Some of My Readers

Your writing isn't for everyone.

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“To avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.” — Aristotle

Whenever I take a seat to write, this quote hits close to my heart.

The experience has taught me that my writing does its job once it causes controversy, upsets some people, or makes them mad.

Recently, I created fluffed feathers, which I'll never forget.

I penned an incredibly critical story titled "I Will Not Ask My Readers to Buy Me a Coffee Like a Homeless Person."

The comment section of my piece became a battleground within hours, and my mailbox was overwhelmed with angry emails. There was an enormous amount of pushback at first.

Nevertheless, a surprisingly high level of considerate participation emerged as I sorted through the animosity.

People who thought differently than me still bothered to explain why, and I learned a lot from conversations that went in directions I hadn’t thought of before.

A few comments from my above story - I was disturbed for some time.

The light bulb went off!

I know I've hit a chord when my writing makes others feel something. It isn't a good idea to be controversial for no reason.

Some people will be offended when your writing honestly questions popular views, challenges the status quo, or exposes uncomfortable truths.

And that's great.

Here's why.

1. Passion Breeds Engagement

When your writing makes people angry, it stirs emotion.

It is widely understood that emotions such as anger, frustration, or vehement disagreement are the key to engagement.

The audience will only engage with content that triggers them to comment, share, or discuss. This kind of engagement is a dream come true for any writer.

It means that people are not just passively receiving your work but engaging with it.

They are considering what you have said, developing their views, and investing time in answering.

Such a communication mode can further disseminate your message and create a buzz around your content.

2. You Can't Please Everyone

Avoid trying to please everyone if you want your message to be heard. Seeking acceptance from everyone can make your writing lack originality and flavor.

You can only please everyone by muting your voice and watering your principles.

If you accept that your writing may hurt some people, you can be more genuine and forthright.

Think about all the important authors and intellectuals in history — Woolf, James Baldwin, George Orwell, and many more. They frequently caused controversy and indignation with their works.

But it was this audacity that gave their works such strength and longevity.

They made a name for themselves in literature by not being afraid to tackle controversial subjects and unpleasant realities, and by doing so, they often offended readers.

3. Sparking Critical Thinking

Provocative writing encourages critical thinking.

Presenting an argument against the grain forces your readers to reassess their beliefs and assumptions.

Even if they disagree, they must engage with your ideas deeper to refute them. This process of mental engagement is invaluable — it's how minds are changed, and perspectives are broadened.

I once wrote a controversial article about embracing RemNote over Notion. Many readers were initially outraged by my stance.

But as the discussions unfolded, I noticed a shift. Some of my harshest critics began to acknowledge the nuances of my argument and even conceded some points.

By challenging their preconceptions, my writing had prompted them to think more critically about a Notion not improving himself.

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Building a Stronger Connection with Your Audience

It may surprise you, but irritating certain people might help you connect more deeply with your audience.

Readers who admire your honesty and bravery will gravitate toward your work when you display it without apology.

Because they appreciate your distinct viewpoint, these readers are inclined to become devoted followers. They believe in you since you will speak their minds and provide opinions that aren't sugarcoated to win over everyone.

The Sweet Spot: Controversial but Credible

There is, of course, a thin line between being wise and provocative and being downright obnoxious.

The most important thing is to provide evidence and reasoning to support your claims.

This does double duty: it strengthens the authority of your writing and makes it harder for detractors to ignore your arguments.

Provocative writing is at its most effective when it is built on a bedrock of factual evidence and sound argument.

The Catharsis of Offending

Additionally, there is a therapeutic advantage to producing content that irritates others.

Expressing yourself in writing lets you let go of pent-up emotions and say what's on your mind, regardless of the potential backlash.

Some of your most moving and consequential work may emerge from this liberating process of letting go.

Genuinely feeling and expressing something in writing makes your words more powerful and meaningful to readers.

Embracing the Backlash

Lastly, it's essential to welcome criticism.

Some people may react badly or unfairly because they disagree with you. However, this is a necessary step.

You may enhance your writing and strengthen your arguments with the help of constructive criticism.

It can also measure how well your work questions the status quo and initiates discussions.

Whenever I encounter criticism, I make an effort to remain receptive.

I read each review with great attention, looking for constructive criticism that can push me to improve as a writer.

I've improved my ability to distinguish between legitimate criticism and personal assaults, and I'm using what I've learned to improve my work in the future.

Taking this tack has helped me become a stronger writer and given me greater assurance in my voice.

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Final Thoughts

The point of writing isn't to win over readers but to convey a valuable message.

Writing that offends some individuals indicates that you address essential subjects and encourage readers to question their assumptions.

So, don't be afraid to tackle controversial topics when you write.

Let it be. Take risks, tell it like it is, and don't be scared to upset some people.

You will not only captivate your readers more, but you will also prove that you have something worthwhile to contribute as a writer.

Now is the time to write something meaningful. And if it makes some people pissed off, it's proof that you're succeeding.

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