I would like to thank you for being very patient and helpful. I learned a lot in this class, and especially enjoyed reading "Writing to Change the World" by Mary Pipher. I said to myself many times while highlighting it's pages that I will revisit this book, and read it for my enjoyment. Prior to reading this text, I thought of writing as a skillful manipulation of words that I wasn't talented enough to understand. But after reading her book, I understood that writing is the act of exposing oneself for the purpose of connecting with others.
Writing the research paper was very challenging. If I am honest, it has been the most difficult writing assignment I ever had. But I think it was this difficult because of the deepening of my understanding of what constitutes good writing. This set a standard for myself that I didn't want to overlook. More specifically, I strove to be as honest and clear as possible, and I realized it is sometimes very challenging to employ clear thinking when reflecting on an issue that is of personal significance to me. I kept changing my thesis, as I learned more about my subject. It took me a while to really refine my thesis, and even then, I felt as though it wasn't precise enough.
I would also like to reflect on freewriting, as it has helped me write more clearly and descriptively. It has helped me express myself more freely, and allowed me to be more creative as well by letting my mind wander. It was difficult at times to keep writing, but even then, it helped me be more aware of how my mind worked. So, in a way, it was rather meditative while helping me develop a more authentic writing voice. The practice of freewriting, along with Pipher's text, sparked in me a curiosity and interest in writing.
Thanks again for being responsive and encouraging, and for changing my understanding about the art of writing.
With Love,
Mary.
Writing the research paper was very challenging. If I am honest, it has been the most difficult writing assignment I ever had. But I think it was this difficult because of the deepening of my understanding of what constitutes good writing. This set a standard for myself that I didn't want to overlook. More specifically, I strove to be as honest and clear as possible, and I realized it is sometimes very challenging to employ clear thinking when reflecting on an issue that is of personal significance to me. I kept changing my thesis, as I learned more about my subject. It took me a while to really refine my thesis, and even then, I felt as though it wasn't precise enough.
I would also like to reflect on freewriting, as it has helped me write more clearly and descriptively. It has helped me express myself more freely, and allowed me to be more creative as well by letting my mind wander. It was difficult at times to keep writing, but even then, it helped me be more aware of how my mind worked. So, in a way, it was rather meditative while helping me develop a more authentic writing voice. The practice of freewriting, along with Pipher's text, sparked in me a curiosity and interest in writing.
Thanks again for being responsive and encouraging, and for changing my understanding about the art of writing.
With Love,
Mary.