Exactly that. When I ended one of those two projects I mentioned, I did so by pointing to the client’s own words to show I’d fulfilled every requirement. Since you know the backstory on that one, you know how many times that client had changed the parameters. It had gone beyond normal revisions — it was turning into another assignment.

Right, Lori. And in cases like this it’s not casting blame, it’s reminding them what they’ve said. Sort of a non-published version of “hanging them with their own words.”

Paula, I think that’s the best method, right there. While I don’t normally condone engaging in the blame game, when it’s obvious the project is headed south, it may be necessary to explain why. That helps the next writer (hopefully).

How? By refusing to take the blame (unless it’s one of those non-apology apologies, “I’m sorry you feel that way, but….”). I will copy and paste their original message and use their very own words to defend my case. Then copy and paste their subsequent messages to illustrate their indecision and confusion.