Why Medium's Interpretation of "Good" Writing Will Eventually Kill It

Jul 03, 2024

Medium claims to want more profit, like any company.

But their constant changes seem to punish popular content and reward writing that many don't want to read.

As a lifelong reader with a creative writing degree, I'm not interested in your 18-minute deep dive into culinary arts or any other subject.

You're not solving a problem for me; you're indulging in literary self-pleasure, showcasing your knowledge of the written language.

Medium's decision to prioritize literary writing over popular writing, which generates real revenue, will ultimately cost them.

It's accessible, focuses on relatable content, uses straightforward language, and addresses specific problems.

Literary writing, on the other hand, is often praised but ignored.

It's seen as boring and unrelatable, the domain of elitist art enthusiasts showing off their "intelligence."

Medium's leadership is increasingly embracing an elitist mentality, manipulating the algorithm to favor their tastes.

They've forgotten that their product's value lies in the users who pay them.

This shift has already cost them many fantastic writers who filled Medium's coffers.

Instead of reevaluating, Medium dismissed these writers, convinced that only they can define good writing.

But the reader is the most important part of this equation.

It's clear when you look at Medium's leaders—they're not business people.

This decline won't be immediate, but it's inevitable.