Thank you for your response, Alan. I think you always have to decide for yourself what you consider valid criticism or not. It is quite subjective. You could never take on everyones’ feedback - even if you wanted to - it would drive you crazy. And also you don’t want a story written by committee. All fiction will offend someone, somewhere. And if it doesn’t it probably isn’t worth writing. But I think to stretch yourself as a writer you should try using the point of view of as many varied characters as you feel able. But it definitely shouldn’t be about complying with any notion of social politics. Take care, and thanks again.