TA TALKS BACK: ON STEPHEN KING’S OPINION ON SMEYER’S WRITING

I agree that his comments were just darn right mean. Constructive criticism for Stephenie Meyer would have been acceptable, especially considering Twilight was her first publication.

Again, I agree that repeated use of some words (e.g., chagrin) really stood out in the books. I just know some editor performed “find & replace” in Word in order to create the nonsense.
HOWEVER, I was forced to the Dictionary a few times for some of the words, which is always a good thing.

PS: Chagrin (per Merriam-Webster’s) refers to “disquietude or distress of mind caused by humiliation, disappointment, or failure.” So, hey, we all learned a new word because of Mrs. Meyer & her editors!

Dang! What a tool! I don’t think he’s that good of a writer anyway.

How sad that someone with as much commercial success finds it necessary to bash Stephenie Meyer. While I do agree that Stephenie Meyer’s writing has some flaws, she has never presented herself as some kind of writing genius. Her stories are original and beautiful. Would Mr. King rather she include Bella’s three dead goldfish swimming their way back up out of the toilet bowl to flop around on her floor and haunt her for the rest of her life? How about some murderous clowns? Would that improve her writing? He’s a perverse man regardless of his debateable talent as a writer. I would have to say that his biggest talent is creeping people out. I’ve always wondered how anyone could live in the same house with someone with those thoughts in their head–not to mention those eyes! (Hey, if he wants to get personal, we can also get personal)

Stephenie Meyer is a nice person. He should try very hard not to be a jerk. He’s just jealous because he’ll never be an Edward.

Opinions vary. If you look at a person’s writing as a technical skill, use of vocabulary, dramatic plot evolution, etc. etc. you may be able to make an academic judgement as to a person’s ability. But technique is just the method by which the author conveys a story, and in the end the story is all that matters.

I figure a man as prolifically published as Stephen King probably has enough critical, academic, and editorial experience in his career to have an informed opinion of the skills and techniques that make a proficient writer. And that’s all it is, an opinion. His. Take it or leave it, because it doesn’t matter.

For the record, Shakespear couldn’t spell and Mark Twain used bad grammar. Does it diminish them as authors? Nope.

Maybe Meyer has room to grow in her craft as far as technique. I expect Mr. King probably could do as well himself. But she’s already demonstrated the ability to conceive, execute, and deliver engaging stories. That’s the bottom line.

Stephen King is a downright asshole.

Does he think he’s the God of all authors or something?

PA-LEEZ

I knew there was a reason I could never get into SKing stories. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and, I, as a reader, have a right to my opinion. I have spent several hundred dollars on the Twilkight Saga, books, movies, etc., because I love her stories, and not one red cent on SKing. His opinion means alot to him, evidently, but it doesn’t mean anything to me.

honestly, i couldn’t have said it better myself.
A) the writing isn’t brilliant, and i did notice ‘chagrin’ a lot as well as many other odd words, some of which i have never heard of…”

B) I also must agree though that it was the storyline, the characters, the dynamic of it all. She made you care about the characters.

And i also agree it WAS a little harsh on King’s part.

So pretty much what you just said.

I have to say I am floored that an author with the level of success of Stephen King would be such an complete and utter jerk. Is this a window (accidentally opened?) into his soul? I have only read a couple of his books, but have never followed him as an author. I don’t seem to have missed anything.

I agree that any author can benefit from constructive criticism. I am sure being helpful was not on his mind when his mouth opened with these hateful comments.

Even with his level of success, it appears jealousy is still a viable emotion for Mr. King. Perhaps he is steaming over the fact that not only was Stephenie published so quickly, something he struggled with for quite a while, but, the FIRST movie made from her FIRST book has proven to be a blockbuster financially. TAKE THAT Horror-monger! Sure, the movie took some hits from the critics, but, within days of its release, due to it’s success the sequel was announced. Fans ruled! TAKE THAT grouchy old git.

And yes, I also noticed the repeated use of ‘chagrin’. Not really a problem. As for the tone of the sexuality I did think it a little bizarre that Edward was still a virgin. Did it ruin the story, not at all. I am quite sick to death of rampant, mindless sex. Do I want all love stories to be this way? Probably not, but,I think it added to the story. If you want a different kind of love story, the book shelves are full. With the mind-boggling sales of all her books, it seems there are a great many people who DO want this type of story. I do love that Edward was a gentleman. THAT was a huge plus for me. That he showed his love for Bella in so many ways was also great. What is wrong with that?

I still say Stephen King is jealous of Stephenie’s success right out of the gate. HAHAHA!

I read that Stephenie said she tends to focus on the one negative comment someone would make, and allow that to over shadow all the positive remarks. I hope if you read this thread Stephenie, you will know how much we love you and your stories. I could write for days on what I think if SK’s crass comments, but I won’t. He isn’t worth the time.

PS: dshooper214 LOVE your post. It is so on target!!

Opinions are like a**holes. Everyone has one and Sking is no exception. I’m just surprised that he didn’t use some professional courtesy and keep his negative and hurtful comments to himself. Does he even realize the verocity of fandom behind S Meyer and what he has most likely unleashed on himself? He might be begging for Cujo to have him for breakfast after Twilight fans get a hold of him. He thinks HIS stories are scary…I’d be afraid to close my eyes at night if I were him. S Meyer has never claimed to be this excellent writer. Her main concern was to get this story out of her head to share it with everyone. Is she a JD Salinger? No, however she has shared with us a beautiful story that is a true page turner and the only stories that I have ever felt compelled to read again and again. Oh and by the way I’ve read most all of Skings books ….once.

well, stephen kings ugly anyway.

and i noticed that stephenie uses multiple words a lot, such as chagrin and anxious. it’s cute though (:

I’m sorry I can’t stand that guy ! Have you seen the Mist ? What a horrible movie and if that was book how incredibly sad for his fans. But I honestly tried to read a Stephen King book sorry wasn’t happening. And really Stephen King’s going at all these authors when he should be concentrating on his own life and being more positive sorry what prick ! But he honestly does remind me of a old mean man haha
I LOVE STEPHENIE ! She is such a nice woman who is a good role model ! And she doesn’t deserve this !

That was a really cruel thing for Stephen King to say.
I hope SMeyer doesn’t take it to heart.
The funny thing is, I’ve read almost everything he’s written (though not the more recent stuff.) There are only two of his books that I can reread-none of the others I care to.
I can read SMeyer’s books again and again..not because she’s the most amazing writer in the world, but because she has the ability to draw a reader in and connect them to her writing in some way, if that makes sense.
So the way I see it, SMeyer is 5 for 5 (not including Dark High Noon, haha) and Stephen King is 2 for about 5,000.
She’s doing much better in the eyes of this reader!

Good for King. It’s time for respected author’s to knock the mock authors down a peg or two. Meyer should never have been published in the first place. She never has and I doubt ever will learn from her writing mistakes.

Yam, it’s not a problem if you don’t like the Twilight books, but, I am very curious as to why you are on this site? Why aren’t you over at some SK site with like minded, um, people?

Obviously millions and millions of people do respect Stephenie, and the stories she has given us. And that stretches all over the world.

And where do you get the idea she hasn’t learned from her mistakes? How arrogant of you. I’m sure SK has respect as an author, but, I will bet that respect has been greatly diminished by the outpouring of his big mouth. And it is so well deserved.

I don’t understand what everyone’s problem is. This guy has an opinion (and a point), and he said it. Is he not allowed to say anything thats not “nice” just because he’s famous? He wasn’t asked to give constructive criticism, and it would have been pretentious and condescending if he had done. He was asked for his opinion, and he told everyone that, in his opinion, Stephenie Meyer was a bad writer. He’s probably more qualified to say so than most other people. There is no jealousy involved– both King and Meyer are writing for totally different demographics and are both successful in their separate genres. Calm down, guys! This poor person isn’t saying that he is the final word on the matter, he’s not saying don’t buy the books, he’s just saying that they’re not shakespeare. Stop attacking him, breathe, and realize that opinions are not always sweet and positive. Reality check here– Stephenie Meyer really can’t write, and King isn’t saying anything new or groundbreaking (just ask your English teacher, s/he’ll say the same thing as him).
And to those of you who say that Stephenie Meyer doesn’t deserve this:
a) the criticism wasn’t at all personal. It targeted HER WRITING, and if she’d write better he’d stop complaining.
b) it wasn’t actually all that mean. Twilight is in the public domain, and people can say whatever they think. It wasn’t vulgar, or rude, or out of context, and if SM can’t handle it she shouldn’t write.

Of course she never should have been published.
Obviously there’s nobody on the entire Earth that wants to buy and/or read her books.
Please.

I understand that there were errors, overused phrases, etc. And that IS SMeyer’s fault. But that’s what she has editors for. They should have caught a lot of the problems that people complain about. Strangely enough, nobody ever seems to fault them.
I know I don’t write perfectly. I’m constantly making typos and I certainly don’t always catch them all.
Also, if I’m writing something that’s going to get published, I know that there will be someone who will edit my work for grammatical errors, continuity, and all that good stuff. So I probably wouldn’t be as concerned with catching my own errors.
Sheesh. If you like it, continue to read it. If you have problems with it, just move on and find something you enjoy.

i have heard a lot of people criticize Stephenie’s writing, and as a die hard fan i’ve tried to defend her as much as possible, but there’s only so much i can say. sure she’s not the best writer in the entire world, but she still has talent and an amazing potential – i think the success of all of this (not to mention all of us fans here defending her) is pretty substantial evidence to support that.

what i love so much about twilight is the inexplicable attachment it creates, and i know that there’s tons of fans out there that would back me up on that one. as a writer myself (a very sucky and amateur one, though) i totally admire stephenie for her ability to make us connect with bella and all the other characters and to read their stories over and over again. and really, it’s not saying much when the worst thing people can think of is her repeated use of a few words.

but i really think that was a low blow from stephen king. some constructive criticism would’ve been just fine, but he went right out and just called her a bad writer. that’s gotta suck majorly for her. i know a few people who like his writing, but really only a few. and i’ve seen the mist – awful. i’ve considered reading some stephen king, but now i’m definitely rethinking that. i’ll use my time to read some more distinguished and talented writers – like those who actually have some respect their peers.

Come on, everyone, don’t you think there might be a reason he dislikes Twilight other than “he’s just jealous”? Just to make it clear, I’ve never enjoyed Stephen King that much either, and I agree that he was being a bit meaner than he ought to have been. However, there are several reasons someone might dislike Twilight:

+ The relationship between Bella and Edward can get downright disturbing sometimes. Edward watches Bella through her window most every night while she sleeps for a long period of time. How stalker-ish is that? Plus, Bella can be even *creepier* than he is – see New Moon for a long list of such examples. She hears his voice in her head whenever she’s about to do something stupid and/or dangerous, and then she intentionally seeks out dangerous things to do just so she can hear his voice. Lordy Lords, that is rather creepy. This doesn’t seem like love. In fact, it doesn’t even seem like infatuation – it seems a lot more like creepy obsession, and I know that’s something that drove me away from the books in the first place. I couldn’t stand something that spooked me so much being portrayed as “true love.”
+ “Incandescent chest.” “The exquisite scent of his breath.” “Marble-esque.” Those descriptions of Edward can be over the top sometimes, can’t they? Once I even found three separate descriptions of his eyes on the same page. These descriptions can be more than a little distracting in places.
This is one of those things that helped me to *not* care about Edward at all – I liked him a lot when he was first introduced, and then it seemed like his character that was hinted at got lost amidst all his physical descriptions. This could be because the novel was from Bella’s point of view, but really, isn’t it the author’s job to make sure a character’s personality gets across regardless of view point? That is a complex thing to do, and is the mark of a sophisticated author, but I didn’t feel like Stephenie Meyer managed to do that. All I can do to describe Edward’s character is list some adjectives. That’s not the way it should be.

Those are the two reasons I personally have come to dislike the Twilight series, but…I know that all writers grow. All writers can change. I will be giving Stephenie Meyer’s new book a chance pretty soon.

I do hope that this comment makes sense to anyone who reads it, even to someone who is a devoted fan of Twilight.

Just some thoughts. Thanks for reading.

Oh deary-dear, what am I doing here on this website anyways? I’m not an expletiving “Twilighter” after all! Ah well. Here goes nothing. ::taps the “submit comment” button uncertainly::hopes there aren’t any horrid typos in this comment that would render my opinions balderdash::

i think stepehnie is pretty great. She uses the word “glower” quite frequently, but who cares? she kept us all addicted to her work and that’s what matters. She writes in a way that makes you feel like your part of another world and made us all fall in love with Edward (or jacob, whomever). Let her be and be grateful she has such dedication to her craft. we all grow in our lives.

This is Steph’s first endeavor into writing, OF COURSE she’s not going to get it down perfectly. She herself admitted that she has plenty of room to grow with her writing skills. I don’t know if Stephen King meant it as a “For Now, but she will get better” comment or if it’s “she’s crap” period. Either way, what matters are the sales. The woman’s a millionaire for being a Nonwriter. She must have done something right, or King just insulted plenty of people, who bought her books, as unintelligent.

I partially agree with King but not entirely. To be honest, I was constantly annoyed by the plethora of grammatical errors in it. I thought that she (and her editors) could have done a much better job proofing the books before they hit the shelves. ESPECIALLY Breaking Dawn. That was the most [unintended] grammatical errors I have ever seen in a novel.

This being said, I do not agree that Meyer cannot write. Grammar is only part of the book. And this saga and a storyline that was well thought through and developed enough that I could usually get over the grammatical issues.

In closing, I just want to also add that I am surprised at the language Meyer used for the saga because–unless I am mistaken– the books were meant for teenage girls. I personally believe it was a little bit above the vocabulary level of an average teenager. I often found myself having to go to faithful old Dictionary.com to find out what some of the words were.

I do agree that Stephen King’s criticism should have been more constructive and not so…rude.
Although I am not a follower of Stephen King, I have read a few of his books and have seen almost every movie based on his novels.
Unlike Stephenie Meyer’s novels, I am usually completely bored with his books until I’m at least half way through it. With her novels, I was hooked from page one and did not want to put them down until I was finished.

Writers are different in talent as well as their story telling. Authors differ amazingly and just because one is different doesn’t mean they’re bad.

Twilight was Stephenie’s first novel. And she’s even said before that she did not intend to become an author. That was not her dream. It’s obvious that Stephenie has room for improvement. And even though King is very well known and has been writing for a long time, he has room for improvement as well.

My point is, no one is perfect. People improve over time.

Stephen King has done a good job in storytelling, as well as Stephenie. When it comes right down to it, the grammar or writing technique (or even overused words) is not what leaves a lasting impression on the reader. What makes you remember a novel and it’s author is the way you felt when you read their story and how it affected you as a reader. Not if they used the word “chagrin” more than once throughout the novel.

Huh.

Generally speaking I like SK because of his more realistic books such as ‘Misery’, but I think that was going overboard. I have to get this off my chest though: why is that the man can’t let a single book go without making some sort of racial or sexist slur per chapter? Then goes on to say “that’s how real people talk.” Wow. That’s having faith in people. Everyone is sexist and racist. **yeah, that’s sarcasm**

Plus, when you see the REAL plot of ‘The Shining’, not the one that Stanley Kubrick managed to salvage into something so amazing it’s a classic, I don’t think SK should be throwing stones.

Okay…. *deep breath* WHAT?!!!

If her story-telling skills didn’t make me want things I never would’ve thought I’d need then why am I – a 22 successful owner of a company, and a co-owner of another- go down on my knee for a man as intense as Edward!!!

she told a gut-wrenching story and she did it perfectly.. King might be right about Grammar, but her ability to share a magical story… left me short of breath and that is my indication for a great story.

and like you ladies already said. giving an advice is one thing, but insulting a fellow writer is out right rude!

i agree i love stephanie’s writing. BUT, i wonder what the full quote might say of what stephan king said. usually context matters a lot. i’m really interested in hearing it all. he might not have meant it quite like we’re taking it.

I wonder why Stephen King felt the need to say these things in a public forum? His comments were unnecessary and are not going to change anyone’s opinion of Stephenie’s writing. I loved reading the Twilight series. Stephenie is obviously a talented writer. I do not read Stephen King’s books, they’re not my cup of tea. Other people like them and that’s fine. Stephen King needs to realize that making negative comments about another author just makes him a smaller person.

Anitamichichi, your last sentence said it all,
“If you don’t have anything nice don’t say it at all.”
You would think Stephen King would know better than to criticise other authors work.

I know it is going to be my head for this. I agree with Stephen King.

Stephenie can tell a good story and create wonderful characters. She filled a niche in a teen market that the publishers were looking for. End of story.

When I say I read a lot I mean at least 15-20 books a month sometimes more. There were many times this fall when I threw a Twilight book across the room. I have many times read better fanfiction. It was the characters that made me finish the series much to my own chagrin. Breaking Dawn was terrible and so full of mistakes that I wonder if it even saw an editor. My mother who is a journalist didn’t understand why the book was published as it was. The simple answer is money. The publisher knew even with the mistakes it would make too much money.

I fell in love with the Twilight series because of the characters and the movie not Stephenie’s writing. If you want great writers in the vampire genre then read Laurell K. Hamilton, Sherrilyn Kenyon, P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast, Charlaine Harris and Darren Shan. These authors know not only how to create wonderfully rich characters but can truly write a story that makes you clamour for more.

I can answer one question truthfully unless it is something dealing with the Twilight characters I will never read anything else of Stephenie Meyer’s. I have nothing against her personally I just think she really needs some writing classes and a publiser who sees in red ink rather than dollar signs.

I am really suprised at SKings unprofessional comments. You would think that he would remember how it felt when he released his first book and hoping that another established writer would give him constructive feedback. Saying that she can’t “write worth a darn” is unprofessional and non-specific. If he was a professional person, he would have said something like, I think Stephanie needs to do x,y, and z instead of “she can’t write worth a darn”

The bigger problem that I have with his comments is that I read an article where they interviewed Stephanie and she said that when people tell her things about her writing, she takes them to heart. She also went on to say that if 100 people told her the story was great and 1 person said it was bad, she would believe that 1 bad comment. I truly hope that Stephanie does not dwell too much on this comment and proves Stephen King wrong in future writings. And.. listen to her fans and not the crappy critics.

I too have read 90% of Stephen Kings books and I have only read them once and would probably never go back and read them again. I have read the twilight series books at least 4 times and will keep reading them over and over again.

Keep writing Stephanie your fans love them!

Don’t get me wrong I love twilight I’m re-reading the saga waiting on the dvd to come out! However, I felt in a few areas the author could have ellaborated more and then less in others. Any ciritasizim given by Stephen King I would not take to hard just listen and learn. I LOVE YOU Stephanie Meyer! Thank You for writing Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn, can’t wait for the Midnight Sun.

sorry but that dude is an A**!
he thinks he is over the top .. dear Mister King
**** off.
he aint that professional is he?
now sorry for my language but his damn comment is so insulting for
S.M. and for all her fans to.
I say he goes and asks his Moma to show him what respect is.
i think he missed that part.
anyway. S.M YOU ROCK!

Stephen King critiquing Stephenie Meyer is like Marilyn Manson critiquing Mozart. They aren’t even in the same league! It is one thing to base a book soley on blood guts and suspense. It is quite another to stir the soul and feelings in someone so thouroughly that they feel completely immersed in the characters.
I was a fan of Stepehn King back when I was young and I didn’t know any better.

I don’t think that what he said was awful.. He did say it was a good story he basically just insulted the grammar which wasn’t nice of him but that’s probably more of his main focus when writing is grammar.. personally I too noticed that she used that word alot, but I love the way she wrote.. I understood things a whole lot easier in her books than I could even attempt in any of his!

I think Stephen King is going to find himself in some hot water as popular as the Twilight saga is and it’s immense fan base he’s going to find himself backtracking. I almost feel personally insulted i’m so in love with these stories that it’s almost hurtful to me to hear that. When you put your heart and soul into something like Stephanie did and get the response that she did from such a wide variety of fans to hear something like that it’s very hurtful. He should be ashamed of himself, he should definitely be slapped on the hand and told to keep his opinions to himself next time. He should only be envious of Stephanie for being able to create such a masterpeice that she has and he has yet to do that. If he could only be as lucky as her to create something so amazing and have such an amazing reaction. The only fan base he’s exciting is a bunch of old retired ladies who bought his crappy books at a lawn sale be proud of that Stephen King.

Yes, SM tends to use words repeatedly but so what? Her writing is descriptive and intimate. I’m 35, and have read quite a few books, but nothing has captured me and pulled me into the story so addictively as her writing. I don’t care if she used the same word on every freakin’ page it wouldn’t matter. Her writing is excellent. She is a superb storyteller…. if she wasn’t she wouldn’t have so many people obsessive over her story.
For example, my husband and i have been together for almost 8 years. i’ve never been able to get him to sit down and read a book despite the topic, however, he’s already read twilight and new moon and he’s halfway through eclipse… he says its her writing that draws him in.

I’m a voracious reader of fantasy and sci fiction. My favorite authors include David Eddings, Raymond Feist, Julian May, and the ever beloved Anne McCaffrey. Some of these authors are better grammatically then others but what keeps me reading and rereading their work is that they created worlds that I love to be part of. The characters have become my friends and I want to be part of their adventures. Personally, I didn’t notice anything that was glaring or overused. I felt her word use was part of the masterful quality of her work that makes you feel the emotions of the story as your own. The true genius of an author is not in the sentence structure but in the emotion. Stephen King is a master because he scares the ever living hell out of us. He also makes you feel like your right there in the middle of the story. Stephanie also shares this gift. I feel Stephen’s comments as reported were mean spirited and down right snooty. I also hope that the full context isn’t as mean spirited.

Yes, I believe Stephen King was totally out of line in criticizing Stephenie Meyer. Stephenie has her own style of writing which make the book so amazingly interesting. I wasn’t looking for the book when I went to the bookstore. I just happen to pick it up and started reading the first chapter…then the next chapter. I was really into the story and thought I better buy the book and finish it at home. The story definitely caught my attention and continue on completing the entire saga to Breaking Dawn. Stephenie made the story so intriguing that you had to continue on…you wanted to know what was next.

I think if you have nothing good to say about a person, don’t say anything at all. It is totally unprofessional.

The commets made by Stephen King were completely out of line. His novels are not in the same genre. News flash Stephen King’s novels have not had the impact the Stephemiw Meyer’s have had.

Okay, I disagree with that last statement. Stephen King has every right to say that his doesn’t like Meyer’s writing, but I think, just like my favorite review, he should say WHY. Why does he hate the writing so much? What did he find so unatractive? That would be fine. He can say he hates it as much as he wants, so long as he gives a reason (and saying because I hate it won’t work). Because, honestly, how do you improve? How does your writing get better if you just get a review thats “this was horrible I hated it”? Now if they go into why, you learn from it, and your writing improves. So thats just my thoughts on it all…

I posted the following letter to Stephen King last night on Facebook. I am very disappointed in him right now. Stephenie may use the same word over and over but no other book has pulled me in the way Twilight has…..

Dearest Stephen King,

I have always been a big fan of yours. I read your books mostly in the mid-90′s when I had no children and loads of time to read. Could you please enlighten me as to what fiction books are for if not to entertain us? I am now disappointed in you for criticizing a fellow author/entertainer, one who entertained many readers.

You have criticized Stephenie Meyer by saying she “can’t write worth a darn” and “shes not very good.” Why would you say such things about a fellow author who has written a series of books that has turned MILLIONS of teenage girls to reading, just in case you didn’t know it, teenage girls don’t like to read anymore. Why would they read when they have everything on video on their cell phones? (Sorry to get off on that little tangent). I am not saying she should win literary awards, because we know she shouldn’t, but maybe you should use your influence a little better. SHAME ON YOU. I am also not saying she is my fav author, this goes to JK Rowling who STOLE it from YOU rightfully.

Please do fans of reading a favor and choose your words more wisely next time, you might have just let a future teenage reader decide not to read. If this is the case then shame on you again. Don’t worry I am still a fan of your writing and maybe someday when I have time, I will pick up one of your 3000 page books and attempt to read it. I hope the character development is as good as, if not better than, Stephenie Meyer and/or JKR.

We will always have the 90′s.

Yours Truely,

Mendy

Wheew that was some responses to read *breaths in*. Where to start? Well while I don’t agree with the way Stephen King expressed his opinion we do have freedom of speech and opinions. Stephen King doesn’t like Stephenie Meyer’s writing and that’s fine by me. Personally I don’t like Stephen Kings writing. I enjoy some of ‘his’ movies but not the books. *shrug*

Yes Stephenie’s writing isn’t the best in the entire world, but it sure is the first series I’ve re-read as soon as I finished the last book (and seriously I mean that litterally). And that something ’cause I’ve been reading loads of books for years. So she favours some words, loves to describe the beauty that is Edward Cullen *swoon* and have grammatical errors. I’ll rather read a book with a compelling story like the Twilight Saga then reading one that is grammatically correct with diverse synonyms and no story. Hey that’s my opinion and I’ll stand by it, and I’m not gonna be hating on Stephen King for his opinion ’cause that won’t change a thing for me – I love Twilight and Stephenie. The End.

*rant over*

I have to say that Stephen is right to an extent. The only way to describe twilight is that its like junk food. Its not good for you, but you still want more. I adore the twilight books, but Stephen has a point. His comments were harsh, but, unfortunately, were true. I 10000000 % agree with his statement about J.K.Rowling!! J.K.Rowling is simply SUPERB!! Her writing is AMAZING!!! She is,obviously, better then both Stephen + Stephenie ( their names are too alike!) .. and Stephenie can NEVER/and will NEVER EVER replace J.K.Rowling… But.. Stephenie is ok too… His comments were a bit harsh, but his criticism was right on key!

I haven’t read the Stephen King article (critic) so I’m basing my comments solely on the comment quoted here that I feel sure is taken out of context (seeing as how almost all quotes are taken out of context otherwise they wouldn’t be……..well…….quotes!). So to my point, yes, I could make a list of words or phrases she uses a lot. Like: hissed, through my (his, her) teeth, lightly, danced, cold (hahahahahaha, ok that was a joke). But PLEASE!!!!!!!! To say that about a neophyte is just mean. He should have viewed this as an opportunity to guide her, not to tear her down. He really needs to stick to what he does best. Writing……..not critical analysis. Jealousy is an ugly mask, no?

I say lets go to his website and tell him how we feel about him very un-professionally bashing our favorite author. Then he’ll see what kind of uprising he started =D

what the heck there both good writers but wtf is stephen king problem twilight rules and some of his books arnt that interesting he may be the best adult writer but stephenie has earnd the right of the best sories for teens 100%

the man has a right to have an opinion. stephanie meyers may ont be the best writer, but we still love her!

Seriously, Stephen King is way better than Stephenie Meyer.

Those who say that they aren’t in the same league are just people who can’t accept the fact that it’s true. Alibis.

Have you even read Stephen King’s books? He’s one of the best. Stephen King only spoke the truth.

You girls are TOO HURT to accept that fact.

Stephenie is horrible

While I do agree with King that Meyer’s writing isn’t the best, I do not see why he had to phrase his opinions in that manner, because it is unprofessional and rude. Just because he has more writing experience does not warrant him the right to be supercilious to younger writers.

Yes, Meyer’s writing seems unpolished, but I truly believe she has made a great improvement since New Moon. I was not a fan of Twilight because of her draggy narrative style, but New Moon was great; she showed a lot of improvement. And I think that’s what really matters, the fact that she grew as a writer.

King should not have bashed Meyer’s first attempt at writing, because I’m sure his first attempt probably wasn’t all that fantastic too. He’s being way too critical and just makes him seem like jealous and grumpy at all the success Meyer is enjoying. Maybe he thinks she hasn’t paid her dues?

Whatever it is, I enjoyed the Twilight saga, and if you don’t, then find something else that you can enjoy and move on. Constructive criticism helps one grow, but insults stunt it.

Hahaha… funny.

Stephen King was right to bash Meyer. It was not ‘mean’ or ‘unprofessional.’ You do realize Seth censors all the actually critizing e-mails to Meyer because he believes their ‘hurtful.’ Come on. Meyer needs the criticism because her story is terrible. Yes you heard me. Twilght is a horrible book series.

For one, it’s unrealistic. The relationship goes to ‘Just-met’ to ‘Twu-luv’ in about… three weeks. That’s ridiculous. Why do they love each other you ask? Well, it’s obvious! He’s hawt and she smells good… don’t make me laugh trying to argue. That’s it. After that, Bella wants the whole BD fiasco to happen.

The plot is boring. The romance is horrible, and as I mentioned above, unrealistic. The whole James thing didn’t happen until the book was over halfway through. And why does this crap happen, you ask? Because Meyer needed action to further the ‘plot.’

Inconsistencies. There’s a lot of them. Like… say… Edward trying to get out of Biology in the first book because he might lost his cool around Bella, but after they form their ‘Twu luv’ he somehow convinces someone important to change his classes so he can have them all with Bella.

Poor characters. And no, being sexy is not a redeeming quality. Bella is a flat, antisocial who’s behavior contradicts her angsting. (I’ll never fit in… Why won’t they leave me alone!?!) Edward is an abusive stalker. Jacob is cool, but then he becomes a freaking pedophile. All the other characters? No one cares about them, because they’re not important enough.

Stephen King wasn’t just talking about the grammer. He was refering to the fact that the books are terrible. And he’s right. The books, despite being terribly written, are also really, really, bad stories. It’s basically giving young girls the oppurtunity to berate their boyfriends for not being like Edward.

I don’t exactly see what the problem is here. Stephen King said she couldn’t write worth a darn. It’s not even a personal insult, and it’s pretty much true. Stephenie’s talent lies in creating characters and scenarios that connect to the reader, and in the article, he pretty much went on to say that. Before that, he went on to list several other authors that were fairly bad at writing but were popular, so it’s not like he’s singling her out. If anything I thought he was trying to be honest about her abilities yet give credit where credit is due, which is connecting to the target audience.

He was asked his opinion. What do you expect him to do, lie?

Stephen King was unprofessional. What a load of old!

Seriously, if he were to go “Meyer? Oh yeah, she totally rocks!”(Which is just as unprofessional as his true statement) you butthurt fans wouldn’t have given a rat’s.

Besides, he wasn’t asked to give constructive criticizm, he was asked for his honest opinion!

First, the forbidden love angle wrote has been told a hundred time before, unpublished and published. Truthfully, it wasn’t really forbidden love. No one was really trying to stop them from being together. Neither had any real consequences to deal with because they were together; neither had to make sacrifices for one another. In end the two got exactly what they wanted without any real reprecussions.

Of course that world was different, they weren’t really vampires. There’s nothing Meyer took from the global folklore that many people still believe in. They were indestructible, and they weren’t as dangerous as Meyer claimed them to be. She could have at least show they why Edward considered himself to be a killer, or why they shouldn’t be together. That world specifically catered to Bella.

Third, in no way was he being unprofressional. Just because you and others may not agree with him does not make him unprofressional. If anything, Meyer is the least profressional. Remember, she gloats saying she’s better than Shakespeare, that the Wuthering Heights was terrible, that the Princess Bride was terrible, and gave a piece of Midnight Sun away which eventually led it being leaked on the internet. She was also very immature about it, unlike the other authors who’ve had their works leaked before (Rowling anyone?). People seem to forget that he’s a human being who is entitled to his opinion. If he’s read the book he’s has the right to critique to book the same way we have done. Writers talking about other writers works have been going on forever, so don’t pretend this is new. “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anthing at all”? If we were to all follow that, you wouldn’t like the world we would live in. Honesty allows for discussions, opinions, and for growth. Meyer doesn’t need to be further shielded. She needs to grow if she ever wants to get better, and wants me to take her seriously.

People seem to forget he is a very sucessful horror writer, who in no way is jealous of Meyer. What does he even have to be jealous about? I don’t think he wants to be a fad or a crappy writer.

Honestly, I’m glad he said it. I’m tired of this blind praising of this woman who isn’t even that good. She needs to brought back in reality. The entire series was abysmal. Too much passive voice, static characters, confusing love with lust, terrible word choices, horrible grammar, lack of character delevelopment, terrible 1st person, telling not showing, glorification of pedophilia, glorification of abusive relationships, sexist, lack of research, lack of realism, implausibility, inconsistent, breaks her own canon, classism, superficiality, little to no plot, lack of action, lack of plot development, over description…and so on.

All of these things are big no-nos in writing, and all of these things could have been avoided if she had taken the time to write, read, edit, and understand what she was doing instead of treating herself like a fad. Twilight would have then be at least bearable.

Just in TL;DR: Meyer is a hack who can’t write. Twilight fans get over yourselves and go read GOOD books.

BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWW CRY MOAR TWIHARDS.

I think SK’s remarks were unprofessional. Personly, I have read a few of his books, but only his old stuff, everytime I tried to pick up anything he has written in the last 15 yrs or so, I have been disappointed and uninterested in finishing it. I hope Mrs. Meyer doesn’t take his arrogent criticizem to heart. Kudos to Stephenie Meyer, who has out sold SK this year in books.

SK has sold more copies of his books and made more money off of movies from his books than Meyer has. I seriously doubt that he is in anyway jealous of her. Some of his books have been made into movie classics: Carrie, The Shawshank Redemption, The Shining. So yeah, he’s got no reason to be jealous of her. One doesn’t need to be jealous to tell Meyer she can’t write worth a darn.

This is an aggravating comment:

“I knew there was a reason I could never get into SKing stories. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and, I, as a reader, have a right to my opinion. I have spent several hundred dollars on the Twilkight Saga, books, movies, etc., because I love her stories, and not one red cent on SKing. His opinion means alot to him, evidently, but it doesn’t mean anything to me. ”

Gwen says “I, as a reader, have a right to my opinion.” She also says, “His opinion means alot to him, evidently, but it doesn’t mean anything to me. ”

So your saying your opinion is the only one that matters?

“I have spent several hundred dollars on the Twilkight Saga, books, movies, etc., because I love her stories, and not one red cent on SKing. ”

You’re proud of that?!

…I’m kind of curious why there are several people here who seem to hate Twilight & everything about it. I mean, you obviously have every right to be here if you want to be, but…coming to a Twilight fansite and then insulting it and everyone who likes it seems kind of stupid. Just thought I’d throw that in there.

Wait a minute. So Stephen King cannot insult Stephenie Meyer (even though I personally don’t think he did anything besides voice an opinion he was asked to give), but Stephenie Meyer is allowed to insult Emily Bronte, William Shakespeare, and William Goldman?

Screw that.

I’d just like to throw into the mix that Stephenie Meyer has insulted Emily Bronte, William Goldman, and Melissa Marr, authors of Wuthering Heights, The Princess Bride, and Wicked Lovely, respectively.

She plainly said that Wuthering Heights sucks, that Buttercup and Westley’s love wasn’t as real as Edward and Bella’s (which is quite perplexing), and that Wicked Lovely only got awards because of how pretty its cover is.

So do you really think that Stephen King’s remarks were unprofessional? Stephenie Meyer is the most unprofessional author I’ve ever seen (Midnight Sun fiasco, anyone?) If anything, she needs and deserves some public criticism.

Hahaha… You’re all getting pwned.

Facts:

Stephen King has sold 300 million copies of his books.

Meyer: 40 million (Or something like that)

Oh, and Rowling deserves her attention… Meyer, does not.

Other facts that I shall debunk:

The Tales of Beedle the Bard outsold Breaking Dawn.

Hermione is a much, much better female character than Bella. IN terms of devolpment, intelligence, the works. Remember kids: Women that kick are sexy!

Logically, Renessmee can’t exist.

The Baseball physics are incorrect.

Carlislie is a town north of Forks.

Jacob is a pedophile.

Order of the Phoenix is not an emo fest. New Moon is, however.

And this is off the top of my head…

Sandy you’re comment doesn’t make sense. King sold over 350 millions books out of his career. Meyer hasn’t sold that much, so how did she out-sell him?

Basically what you’re saying is that your opinion is the only one that matters. Just because he doesn’t like Twilight doesn’t make him a crappy author, guys. In fact, he was so polite as to not even use the word “damn.”

You want to see unprofessional? Try SMeyer’s so-called reflection questions on Wuthering Heights, because those were insults that were just uncalled for.

Don’t forget the old saying: Just because it’s popular doesn’t mean it’s good.

You guys make me laugh.
If Stephanie Meyer turned around and insulted Stephen King, you guys would be rooting the ‘author’ on.
You’re all biased.
And for the record, I don’t read Meyer or King, but if I had to choose, I would try King.

Seriously, SKing was not being unprofessional. He was giving an honest opinion by someone who asked him. Was he supposed to lie and say it’s the best book ever? Twiliight was abysmal and if she was trying to write a vampire romance she should have read some authors who’ve written this genre much longer than she has. There’s nothing scary about the vampires in it and Edward comes off as an obsessive stalker. Bella only seems to be in love with Edward because of his looks. Is that really love? Also the mothers that are worshipping these books, don’t try to protect SMeyer from honest criticism when she needs it. Something must have been missing in your lives if you’re weaving fantasies about the perfect Edward. SKing was right on about his analysis of Twilight. The women here just need to deal with it, move on, and take care of your families for once instead of wasting your time on this series!

Stephen King’s novel “The Body” had a huge impact. It was turned into a movie in the 80′s called Stand By Me. It is now to this day a well known classic movie about friendship, and self discovery. The Twilight books, and movies will never be up there as classic movie adaption. King knows how to write characters, he knows how to show realism in his books, and their not all about horror. Stephen doesn’t have anything to be jealous about because he is a true author.

Also don’t forget that one of the most highly praised adaptations of one of his books, The Shawshank Redemption, regularly comes in at number 2 or number one in critics’ lists of Top films, usually competing with The Godfather.

Other famous adaptations such as Green Mile and The Shining regularly appear in those lists.

I have yet to hear of Twilight appearing in any “Top X Films” lists that matter.

King is a misogynist. He treats all of his women in his books like shit. His attack on Meyer is grounded by the fact that he is very threatened by her and all of these teenage girls. Nobody ever accuses king of this its disappointing because its so obvious. people have attacked twilight for being sexist, but turn a blind eye to the content in his works.
The reason he didn’t constructively criticize Meyer was because he didn’t think she was worthy of such criticism. to him, she’s just a sub-human ditz who doesn’t deserve fame.

as for his success, just because its a hit doesn’t mean it isn’t shit.

give him all the awards in the world his still a sick minded creep who should be in the nut house.

You’re all saying that Stephen didn’t give an opinion about why he thinks that, and you’re wrong, he did, it’s just that the author of this note/topic didn’t put the whole note for you to read.

This is how his opinion continues:

While Stephen may not be a fan of Stephenie’s writing, he understands the appeal of the series.

“People are attracted by the stories, by the pace, and in the case of Stephenie Meyer, it’s very clear that she’s writing to a whole generation of girls and opening up kind of a safe joining of love and sex in those books. It’s exciting and it’s thrilling and it’s not particularly threatening because it’s not overtly sexual.”

He further explains, “A lot of the physical side of it is conveyed in things like, the vampire will touch her forearm or run a hand over skin, and she just flushes all hot and cold. And for girls, that’s a shorthand for all the feelings that they’re not ready to deal with yet.”

Then, there you have, he HAS a reason, and he SAID it, don’t hide information for your own benefit.

First of all, thank you to the people who are actually thinking about what they write before they submit it. Blindly flaming either Stephen King or Stephanie Meyer doesn’t make you look like you know what you’re talking about. And thank you to Tralala for putting the rest of that comment up. Now people actually know what they’re talking about.
The fact is, everyone is entitled to an opinion. Stephen King just gave his. The same way so many of the posters here sat and called him sexist, foul-mouthed and jealous. Jealous…of all things. Stephen King has nothing to be jealous of at all. Look at a brief record of his career and you will know that.
Now I’m not saying I hate Stephanie Meyer, not at all. I loved her books and found them hard to put down. Yes, you could easily tell it was one of her first attempts at writing. The reason I liked it was because she got into the characters, but also because everything was spelled out for you, so it was a simple, easy read. Exactly right for the age group the book is aimed at. And as for Stephen King’s books. Those people who say they could never even finish one of his books…Is that because the size is daunting and the mental capacity needed was too great? Stephen King is a very different writer and like all writers, doesn’t appeal to everyone. Same as Meyer.

As for the criticism. How do we get better at doing something? By everyone telling us they love us and we’re completely and utterly perfect and you’re like, my favourite author ever?! No. His comments may not have been completely constructive, but now she has something to think about. An opportunity to reflect on her own writing and give herself some constructive criticism. She needs it.

King saying Meyer can’t write does not make him a big nasty man. It makes him a human being who expressed his opinion. Big deal. He’s dealt with plenty of criticism over the years, he knows what it feels like. It’s an essential part of writing. I hope Meyer takes the opportunity to grow as a writer.

Are you afraid of clowns because of It? If yes then he has had an impact because I know a boat load of people who peed their pants when they saw the movie and even more who are scared of clowns.

If he could only be lucky to create a masterpiece? “It”, that just says it all.

you say that stephen king is treating his women in his books like shit while stephenie meyer is an anti-feminist?Please…Bella can’t actually BREATH without Edward, she always follows him around and jumps of a cliff because he left her!Stephen King stated his OWN opinion!Besides he’s not the only who thinks that twilight is not a good book or that stephenie meyer “can’t write worth a darn”! twilight has more haters than fans…we all know that…