avatarHolly Jahangiri

Summary

The author suggests that Medium should manage the practice of posting comments as full articles, proposing that readers who wish to respond substantially to an original piece should write their own article and link to the original, thereby supporting multiple writers.

Abstract

The author expresses a concern regarding the way Medium handles lengthy comments, which are sometimes published as separate stories. They argue that such comments should be recognized as a form of compensation to the original author, as they contribute to the conversation and engagement around the piece. To maintain the integrity of the platform and respect the effort of writers, the author recommends that those who wish to respond in depth should create their own Medium story, embedding a link to the piece that inspired theirs. This approach not only respects the original writer's work but also promotes the work of other writers, fostering a more collaborative and supportive writing community on Medium.

Opinions

  • Comments on Medium should not be repurposed as standalone articles.
  • Comments are seen as a form of appreciation or "payment" to the original writer.
  • Responses to articles should be published as separate stories with a link to the inspiring piece.
  • This method of response encourages the promotion of multiple writers.
  • Such a practice would enhance the culture of mutual support among writers on Medium.

I think that Medium needs to address the issue of comments-as-stories, but I believe comments are a form of “payment” to the writer of the original piece. If you want to respond, but to put it behind the paywall, write your own story and embed a link to the one that inspired or provoked yours. Promote two (or more) writers with one story.

Marketing
Art
Entrepreneurship
Writing
Community
Recommended from ReadMedium