I have always found reading course material bland, boring, and sometimes even useless. Especially in writing courses. However, as I spent time reading the required chapters of Write to Learn for our next class, I have found that this text has actually reminded me about some information that I have once forgotten - even information I've never thought of.
Donald M. Murray said "we must be willing to write badly to write well" (2005, pg. 8). Sometimes as writers, we need to be able to create content and then form. It can be a more simplistic solution to the writing approach if the writer first gathers facts and then preempts the readers' thoughts and expectations. What do I mean by this? I guess what I mean to say is that I never realized how in certain situations it can be easier to quickly write up the content without worrying about the form or structure. Work on form and structure after you get your thoughts down on paper.
Another thing that caught my attention about the text was its ability to make writing appear effortless and straightforward. While reading through Chapter 3, a story writer by the name Andre Dubus stated "Talent is cheap. What matters is discipline" (2005, pg. 18). This very quote has since forever changed the way I approach all of my work whether it be for school or for extra-curricular activities. Everyone has talent but you need discipline to make that talent evident.
All in all, I must agree with Lauren Bersaglio - our course texts are actually interesting and are also of great value.
I completely agree with what you wrote. The text does make writing seem effortless and straightforward. However, I think the fact that Murray emphasizes free writing before form is even considered is what results in this effortless writing. If you are able to get all of the thoughts out onto paper, then you are able to begin forming your words into proper writing, causing it to be, perhaps, an easier experience.
ReplyDeleteIt is also encouraging to hear that anyone can be a good writer if they show great discipline. This quote has also encouraged me greatly.
It was so good to read that in the textbook and then read your reminder that getting your thoughts out without even worrying about how it sounds is helpful in creating, like Andrea said, effortless writing.
ReplyDeleteBut sometimes I feel like I get my thoughts out on paper, but then they get stuck there and I can not think of how to improve them.
Let me be the third to honestly express the relief from this part of the textbook and your post. Sometimes I get so caught up in just trying to write "good" it akes for ever just to start writing. It is refreshing to know that we sometimes just need to start writing and let the rest fall into place. Even though it still takes hard work it is nice knowing anyone can become a great writer.
ReplyDeletePaul L