EXERCISE: Writing As a Lifelong Skill (3)

[mbarker.livejournal.com]

original posting: Sat, 27 Jan 2001 12:10:00 -0500

Let's take a look at some thoughts from Writing As a Lifelong Skill by Sanford Kaye, ISBN 0-534-22218-8

Up to Now: Your Writing History

(Page 14) "Try to reconstruct your own writing history.  Begin with the best and worst of your writing experiences.  The best times may revolve around writing for a school newspaper or magazine.  The worst, perhaps because it is so clear in the memory of freshmen, might be the college application essay.  Then link your past experiences as a writer with the way you write now and with the way you would like to write.  This writing history gives you a sense of perspective, the basis for a fresh start...."

A writing history?  Me?  Sure, you know you have one...

EXERCISE: Writing As a Lifelong Skill (4)

[mbarker.livejournal.com]

original posting: Mon, 29 Jan 2001 12:13:00 -0500

Let's take a look at some thoughts from Writing As a Lifelong Skill by Sanford Kaye, ISBN 0-534-22218-8

Up to Now: Your Writing History

And in case you would like some concrete questions to help you along, from page 15:

• How did you learn to write in the first place?  Who taught you?  What kind of response did you get to your earliest efforts?  How did you feel about writing then?  Does that differ from the way you feel about writing now?
• What has been your best writing experience?
• What has been your worst?  Why was it so bad?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses now?
• What do you hope to accomplish with your writing?

So, do you have your definition, your attitudes, and your history written out?  At least some key points?  Why not?  You don't have to show them to anyone, but you might find it interesting to explore...