This was a relatively routine story as far as the setup. What I mean by that is that some stories have as their foundation certain elements that make the story a big deal, which means the author has to live up to that or fail. Your approach here was less demanding, so you could have taken it easy and turn out writing that was likewise routine.

When I read it, though, I keep seeing things that you did really well. Good thoughts, good images, good turns of phrase. You’ve done some really impressive things, and this isn’t outstanding in the same way; subtly, however, and in an entirely different way, you’ve turned out a solid piece of work that shows your own continuing growth in your craft.