growth

January 22, 2009

• "Problem Writers" according to Donald M. Murray

  There's no point in re-inventing the wheel when someone has created a perfectly good wheel.  So it is with what writers have to say about writing.  I have read a great deal about the writing process by writers and writing teachers.  But, I have until now not come across someone who's done a remarkable identification of the kinds of "problem writers" that exist.  Donald M. (…)

November 4, 2008

• The Election is Here

  The election is here.  The election is here.  Probably we've all arranged our day around when we can vote.  Unless of course we live in states where we were able to vote early.   I brought a folding stool since long waits were expected.  Fortunately, I did not need it.  Still, the turnout is expected to be the largest that has occurred in my lifetime.  Once the election is over we will be ready for "the next thing."
  For some of us, writing out "normal" stuff has been challenging.   Some of us have even been unable to write unless the writing was specifically related to the election.  What's important is for us to know that taking a break from our regular writing or from all writing during this period is not only okay, but may as well be therapeutic.  It may well facilitate our growth as writers.  There are not always events as important as the election that affects all of our lives.  Clearly, the closeness of the race of the last several months indicates the significance of it. (…)

October 30, 2008

• Writing is a developmental process

  In Writing Without Teachers, Peter Elbow talks about the importance of development in your writing.  He believes that writing cannot become MORE developed unless the writer goes through the process of "free writing."  Free writing means that the writer writes without concern for the "correctness" of the writing.  Eventually a well formed piece will emerge.  But, the process means that the writer must be willing to face disorientation and even chaos.  This, Elbow points out is very frightening.  So frightening, in fact, that the writer may insist on the "old" style of writing… outlining first to know what you're going to say before you say it.  There is no learning, no development, from this kind of writing.  But, there IS emotional safety. (…)