Oct. 31: Getting Rid of Bad Writing Habits

Today's reading is about getting rid of bad writing habits and a little bit about what some of those are. One that I can think of one right off the bat is writing carelessly, hastily without taking time to truely develop my subject material. This is particularly true if I am trying to write on an assignment. Unfortunately I tend to do that with my examiner.com material. Need to spend more time researching and interviewing like I did when I first started this. In the "For Further Reflection" today the author gives some useful suggestions for getting rid of these habits but creating new habits. I particularly like the idea of setting aside time to develop character profiles.
Today's "Try This" assignment is:
Draw up a list of all the bad writing habits you've succumbed to over the years. If you can't think of any, you'd better reassess your writing habits soon. Better yet, have a friend--someone on whom you can rely for objective criticism--read a few of your drafts with a close critical eye. Over the next several weeks, make a conscious effort to get rid of those bad habits that your friend points out.
Well I guess I need to print off a few of the stories I am working on and have Vicki read them with a critical eye to suggest/or point out bad writing habits.

Oct. 30: Preventing Writer's Block

In today's reading the author suggests two activites to prevent, not just get through, writer's block. The first is the one that all published writers tend to give and that is to just keep writing. Even if you can't think of anything to write on the current project write something. The suggestions given are : write a list of future characters, write a letter to your mother or imaginary or famous person, or compose a greeting card verse. The key is to just keep writing. The second activities is to play word games. Again his suggestion is to chose ten random words from a dictionary and use them to compose a meaningful paragraph.
"For Further Reflection". The author reminds us that writer's block is preventable and we need to find strategies that work best for us. Even taking a small break and engaging in another activities for a while can be helpful. It will also help you gain a different perspective.
The "Try This" assignment for today is:
The next time you're blocked, ask someone to select three or more words from the newspaper. Use those words in the first paragraph of a story.
So far since I have started writing daily I have not faced writer's block. I have been able to write something. Maybe not something that gets accepted but at least I am learning. Like one website I have learned is really looking for more technical material and therefore only when I might want to write a non-professional article related to my profession will I be able to write something that will possibly be purchased on that site. If I were to do that I am much more likely to submit the article to professional magazines I already am subscribed too. I don't always have time to write the daily assignment but that growing list in my composition book is also a possiblity to work through writer's block on a particular story or article. Or I could work on writing a devotional to be submitted to one of several devotional sites that I read on a regular basis.

Oct. 29: Occult Symbols

Today's reading is about how "the supernatural world is rich in symbolism" according to Mr. White. He further says that "writing is a kind of occult, shamanistic activity in the way it enhances the reality of symbols." According to Mr White writers use words to "conjure up" new realities. This is particularly true in the genre of horror fiction which is loaded with symbolism and also generates even more symbolism just by the telling of the story. As I read that paragraph I did not think of "Hansel and Gretel" and the picture of the gingerbread house but of the white hockey mask that is forever linked in many peoples' minds now with murder and mayhem thanks to the "Jason" movies.
"For Further Reflection" today speaks of how there are a number of symbols that are recognized as either good or evil so that when a writer uses these symbols they do not have to state that they are good or evil the reader just automatically knows. However, the writer can also generate their own symbols.
Today's "Try This" assignment:
1. Make a list of objects (lamps, old photographs, trophies, clocks) that might carry symbolic value in an occult story.
2. Work up a horro story that includes conventional symbols of good and evil along with symbols of one or the other, or both, that you have invented.
This is an assignment that I will probably not do, or be very slow about doing. Basically because I do not like the genre of horror or sci-fi. They just do not appeal to me and never have. In fact, in spite of the fact that they are considered classic literature, I have never read (nor do I plan too) The Pit and the Pendulum, or Frankenstein. Even when required reading in Americal or English Lit I would do the quick read through of the cliff notes if at all possible. If there was an alternative I would chose the alternative assignment.

Oct. 28: Writing Satire

According to Fred White "Satire is sarcasm raised to the level of literary artistry. It pokes fun at hypocrisy, short-sightedness. It can be heavy-handed, even bitter in its attack, or it can be a gentle ribbing." He gives as the best example of a writer who used heavy-handed satire the writer Jonathan Swift. His examples of the second type are some modern day comedians to include Charlie Chaplin, Lenny Bruce, Lily Tomlin and George Carlin. He states that whether it is done in a serious or a comedic manner the purpose of satire is to alert readers to the "ethical shortcomings of practices that. . . seem altogether ethical." In the section "For Further Reflection" White explains that satire combines both emotional responses and our intellect it can overcome evel the most logical argument because it generates a keener emotional response.
Today's "Try This" assignment is to:
Test your satric wit by writing a story that pokes fun at some aspect of contemporary culture. Here are some possibilities:

• celebrity hounding
• what people say they value most in a presidential candidate vs. whtat they secretly value most
• courtship rituals

This one will take some thought and right now I have not ideas at all my brain has not yet woke up for the day.

Oct. 27: Interior Drama

In today's reading Mr. White talks about how stories unfold in the internal (mind) of characters as well as through external events. In the "For Further Reflection" he comments on how the human mind still has "unfathomable depths". Inspite of all the knowledge we have gained of the workings of the human brain there are still mysteries regarding consciousness and unconsciousness that we do not understand. Mr. White believes that enough has been learned about the workings of the human mind to make for some "compelling internal drama".
Today's "Try This" assignment:
Compose an interior drama from the perspective of one whose mental state is characterized by one of the following symptoms

• paranoia
• delusions of grandeur
• one of the phobias, such as a fear of heights
• obsessive-compulsive behavior
• seasonal affective disorder

Don't have time to work on it today but there is one story that I am working on regarding two women one newly sober and one with long term sobriety that the first two symptoms could be included in. Particularly the newly sober woman. Could even blend the last symptom into the information regarding the woman with more sobriety. It sometimes happens that individuals with long-term sobriety realize that they have problems with depression.

Oct. 26: On Sorcery

In today's writing the author discusses how art can enhance everyday reality and that enhancement if a form of socery. He further states that "art helps us find magic and beauty in the real world."


In the section "For Further Reflection": He states that art in this sense enchants and bewitches us and it represents the animation of our imagination. It is our human ability to take the raw stuff of nature and transform it into a story. By the same token the art can add sorcery to our everyday lives, a way in which reality imitates fiction.


The "Try This" assignment for today is:


1. Write a poem about the sorcery you detect in the everyday world.


2. Outline a story in which your main character, dissatisfied with the way his love life is progressing, decides to add some sorcery to it. What kind of sorcery does he resort to? Does it work or does it backfire? what are the consequences.



In order for me to fully understand this assignment I looked up the definition of sorcery

1. A noun. Use of supernatural power over others through the assistance of spirits; witchcraft.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

2. A. Verb. (Spirituality, New Age, Astrology & Self-help / Alternative Belief Systems) the art, practices, or spells of magic, esp black magic, by which it is sought to harness occult forces or evil spirits in order to produce preternatural effects in the world. Also from The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language.

3. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary definition is the use of magic or witchcraft.

Therefore, although I do not have time to do the outline at this time, I think my story would be of a man who went to New Orleans famed voodoo priestess Marie LaVue for a magic spell to cast on the woman of his desires.

Catching up again

Oct. 24: "Tell It Slant"
According to the author the title from this day's writing is a quote from an Emily Dickenson poem. It related to a writer needing to tell the truth or known paradigms in a different and even at times indirect way. According to Fred White they need to do this because if they told the blinding truth or philosphy in an obvious way the reader would consider it as being "preachy". The same is also true of using a set of story-telling conventions. The writer needs to take storytelling conventions and "stretch them to embody the new insights, the new variations on the themes they wish to convey".
In today's "For Further Reflection" White states that "searching for new ways of disclosing the truth of things is what the writer has in common with scientists and detectives". In order to do this he urges that the writer learn more about human nature and the natural world. This information will help us discover new ways to relaying the truth.
The "Try This" assignment for today is to outline a story in which your main character's true nature emerges indirectly through her "behind the scenes" thoughts and actions, which contradict the public ones.

Oct. 25: Autumn Leaves
In today's reading White talks about how Autumn speaks to writers. He gives his thinking on how it is a season of many things: learning, new season (TV shows), of fading rich in paradox, a celebration of summer's bounty, the beginnings of winter, of renewal with the sun of "Indian Summer".
For Further Reflection:
Here White states that this is an ideal time not only for study and comtemplation but also for writing. He claims that memories are brighter as the summer sun wanes. Also the intense colors of autumn are a good counterpoint for the "tamer greens and blues of summer months".
The "Try This" assignment:
1. Maintain a list of autumnal images and associations. Descriptions of colorful leaves might top you list, but also include changes in weather, in clothes, in light and shadows, in foods, in the rhytm of daily life; perhaps certain changes in mood or personality as well.
2. Compose a series of autumnal poems. Red Keats's ode, "To Autumn" for inspiration.

Recently I wrote the following article as I contempted something along the lines of #1.
The first frost of the season has signaled that Fall is here. Soon there will be the crisp sound of leaves underfoot when walking in the area parks. In more rural areas where there are no burning bans there will be the acid smoke as piles of these self-same leaves are burned. There are also the bright colors of Fall leaves, brilliant golds, yellows, oranges, and reds paint the local forests and mountain sides. Down quiet village streets there will be the gleeful sound of children playing in piles of the brightly colored bits of nature’s glory.
Along with the brilliant colorful Fall leaves other signs of Fall are the smells of harvested corn, pumpkins, and Fall apples, as well as the smell of Fall treats. Treats that not only come from the bountiful harvests but also the local county fairs, i.e., cotton candy, candied apples, funnel cakes, popcorn balls.
Then there are the sounds of Fall. The eerie honking of geese that fly across the face of a full moon in their traditional “v” formation, or the bulge of male elk in rut. There is the screams of happy children and adults going through local haunted houses. Giggling children dressed as spooks, ghosts, monsters, wizards, and witches as they scurry down village streets with bulging Trick-or-Treat bags. There is the crunch of ripe, tart Fall apples when you bite into one.
All of these are but some of my many memories of Fall. Fall was the time when things sort of slowed down. Not only nature but people as well. Fall is also the signal of coming Holiday seasons Halloween, Thanksgiving and of course the biggest of all Christmas. Fall is the season for festooning your home and yard with decorations of the season. Around the neighborhood people first arranged bales of straw, pumpkins and gourds, big pots of chrysanthemums, and scarecrows. They hang bats and ghosts from tree limbs and drape the front door with larger than life spider webs. These are then followed with colorful turkeys and pilgrims and later Santa, snowmen, and nativity scenes.
Fall was the time I woke up earlier than usual to join my father as he went hunting for pheasant, grouse, ducks, deer, antelope, and elk. I want not so much into the hunt as I was in spending time with my father. There was a bond there in the cold mornings sitting waiting for him to return with the game. Some mornings, particular for duck season, I got to set with him on a hillside overlooking some pond or small lake waiting for ducks to fly in.
Then there were the football games. What girl does not remember the very first time she went to a college football game with a date? The big mum with the school letter attached that he pinned to her jacket or sweater meant more than a simple corsage. It was a badge that she was with him and he was her guy, it symbolized that she was attractive enough to get a date, popular enough. Then there were those special homecoming games and dances. In so many areas Fall football season is a time of special memories for all stages of life.

Oct. 23: Idealism vs. Realism

In today's reading the author, Fred White, addresses the idea being either idealistic or realistic; optimistic or pessimistic. He stated that idealists/optimists "tend to be adventurous, willing to try new things, to take risks, to put a lot of hope in potential; realists tend to settle for what is tried and true, always weighing the odds and making the safest bets." He further states that writers shoulsd "think about the effect that each attitude has on personality and behavior".
In "For Further Reflection"
The author discusses how "love, paradoxically, is rooted in both the ideal and realistic universes". He also gives examples of where the same author can develop characters that exhibit an opposing personality or worldview.
In "Try This" Assignment for today:
1. Are you an idealist or a realist? Write a journal entry in which you answer that question.
2. Outline a short story in which a realist, through some fascinating series of circumstances, becomes an optimist--or vice versa.
Once again do not have time for #2 but here is my answer for #1.
Idealist or realist? I tend to be a little of both. When I think about what I, or someone else can attain as in goals I tend to be idealistic. I have a firm belief that people who through their positive belief system can attain any goal particularly if it is in alignment with what is God's purpose for their life's accomplishments. However, the author Fred White, mentioned gambling which is something I almost never do because of the reason he stated. I believe that the odds of winning are so great that your odds for winning a certain prize are the same whether you gamble or not. This is particularly true if money is involved. So I don't buy lottery tickets or play slot machines or poker in real life or on the computer. I may enter a contest such as Publisher's Clearing House or writing but never if it involves spending any money. I am also an idealist about our chances of improving our world it we would just all decide to do that. One way I like to think of this is that if everyone who professed to be a Christian would bring one other person to Christ then Christians would out number other religions. Or if everyone recycled, or conserved natural resources.

Oct. 22: Form As Function

In today's readings Mr. White talks about how stories tend to follow a pattern of some sort. The pattern tends to be the same whether you are writing a mystery, horror, or romance. In fact some readers expect the story to move in a certain pattern.
In "For Further Reflection" however he warns against the pattern being to conspicuous because then is seems artificial. By the same token if the story has not discernable pattern the story seems to just drift and the reader loses that sense of anticipation. That being said, he also adds that as writers we should "tell the story you want to tell, in the way you want to tell it, and then worry about form later.
For today's "Try This" assignment:
1. Outline a short story, being very mindful of pattern; that is, of story sequence, rising curve of conflict, climactic moment, resolution.
2. Write the story you've outlined for number. As you work on the draft, try to "mute" the pattern so the seams do not show.
Because this has been a long and rushed day will again have to file this one in the old composition book for a later time.

Oct 21: Invention

Fred White in today's reading uses one definition of invention to refer to a systematic or spontaneous way to generate ideas or what to say about ideas. He states that one of the best known such inventions was the use, by journalists, of the "5 Ws and the H: Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How." White further states that this is useful in "outlining a writing project (not use a news report)." He then states that
Who - characters in the story.
What - situation or conflict of the story/plot.
When & Where: setting and time frame
Why - character's motives
How - ways in which characters achieve their goals.
In "For Further Reflection" White states "the more inventive we are with language, with plotting, with character development, the more adept we will become at being inventive." To achieve this he suggests that we write, write, write.
"Try This" assignment for today is:
1. Use the 5Ws/H invention strategy for planning a story or essay.
2. Write the story or essay you've outlined above, only don't let the outline show through in your writing. White suggests to achieve this you might want to defer character motivation until the very end of the story, or disclose the details of the setting only gradually.
Since I need to get a couple of articles written over the weekend I think I will use this to begin outlining them. Also over the weekend will go back over the four stories I am currently writing and see that these are covered or if they need to be developed more, and how.

Oct. 20: On Inspiration

In today's message the author talks about how it is better to be actively writing everyday instead of passively sitting by hoping to be inspired. Inspiration comes more readily to those who are already writing regularly. It is not that you are never inspired passively but you will get more "milage from a flash of inspiration when you're already in the habit of writing on a regular basis."
For Further Reflection: just stresses this point.
The "Try This" assignment for today is:
"Generate some active inspiration by getting a short storyu going this moment. Rather than wait for one of the Muses to whisper a plot outline in your ear, plunge directly into a story situation in which your protagonist meets one of the following individuals:

• a former lover
• someone who, five years ago, vowed: 'If I ever see you again, I'll kill you'.
• a magican reduced to homelessness and panhandling

Work steadily; after about half an hour, active inspiration should keep you going until you finish the draft.

Again sadly, this will have to go in the composition book for later consideration as I lack the time right now. In fact, almost didn't post today because I am so rushed at my "day job".

Catching up

Oct. 17: "I Got Rhythm"
In this day's writing the author talks about how rhythm is biological in nature. He states that there is natural rhythm found in nature; i.e., tides, phases of the moon, movement of various animals, etc. There is also natural rhythm in art, in poetry, and even in prose. He stated in "For Further Reflection" that rhythm is just as important in writing and in other forms of the arts, nature, and even our own physiology and behavior. "Life pulsates; we are most alive when we satisfy our instinct for rhythmic gratification."
"Try This" assignment: Compose a number of short poems, each one expressing a distinctive rhythmic character. Construct one poem predominantly with anapests (two unstressed syllables followed by a stressed, as in 'Twas the NIGHT before CHRISTmas and ALL throught the HOUSE. . ."; and another poem with trochees (a stressed syllable followed by an unstressed; as in 'HOLD me, KISS me, LOVE me'; and yet another poem based on a rhythmic pattern of your own devising.
Growing up in a house that was always filled with music and having a father who played guitar by ear without ever having a lesson, I believe has given me a natural sense of rhythm which has been a part of the fiber of my life since birth. That may also account for my natural sense of creativity.
Oct. 18: Dwelling In Uncertainty:
In today's writing the author talks about how having a certain amount of uncertainty in writing is what is best for some writers while others are very uncomfortable if their story starts to deviate from they well organized plan. However, for those who of the first type to try to force their stories into a more well defined path makes it feel brittle and lacking in character. He also says that regard of which type of writer we are we should give ourselves "the opportunity to discover what your tolerance for uncertainty is like."
"For Further Reflection":
"Metaphors of direction--paths, roads, points of the compass, guiding lights, and so on--have their limitations when it comes to creating stories from scratch. Creative writing is more like exploring a cave than like painting by numbers."
"Try This" Assignment for today: "Begin writing a story with only a general topic in mind--say, the end of a love relationship. Your opening sentence should set up the situation quickly--something like, 'Martha could tell just by the way Gary shut the door on his way out that he would not be coming back that evening.' Without any further planning or consulting sources, write the story spontaneously, letting ideas fall into place from one sentence to the next."
This is basically how I have started the four stories I am currently working on. In fact, the only writing for pleasure that I have ever done, except for my family history, is basically written this way. I have sort of a theme or topic/plot in mind but the characters just develop as do the stories just evolve. Now much of this is influenced by past stories of other writers that I have read or as in the case of The Pioneer Woman's Journal from the history of the area that I have known and studied since I began school.
Oct. 19: Souvenirs:
The author calls souvenirs for writers as "heuristic devices--prompts to get the writing going." He also gives a definition and description of souvenirs. He states that they are reminders of past events that have occurred in our lifes. Because of moving around so much as an Army wife and an employee of the Army I have not kept souvenirs. What I do have instead is pictures. When my mother had to move from the family home into a nursing home my sister collected all the family photos some of which had been handed down to my parents by their parents. I have since made up family scrapbooks which include all of these pictures except for some negatives that I have never gotten made into pictures.
"For Further Reflection": In this section the author tells us that even if our souvenirs are not worthy of being shaped into stories they can provide information for scenes and incidents that can someday become part of a larger story. He further states that "when it comes to fiction writing, even the most seemingly trivial souvenir could stir the imagination and suggest much more than the literal experience with which it is associated."
"Try This" assignment:
"1. Go through the souvenirs you've collected over the years, without judging their story potential. Just gather them together. Be flexible, too, as to what should count as a souvenir.
2. Once you have your souvenirs gathered together, give carfeul consideration to each itme for its story potential. Conduct some online research if necesary. Finally, select one souvenir--or a group of closely related souvenirs--and use it as a springboard for an exxay on some facet of the culture it represents."
Can't really think of anything except some very special pictures that I might want to do this with and in a way I am incorporating these photos in the story of the Pioneer Woman's Journal because they are pictures of grandparents and great grandparents, and in one instance a great, great grandfather.

Did it again

Once again I left my book at work. Therefore, will have to catch up on Monday.

Oct. 16: Exaggeration and Understatement

Today's reading discusses how the use of exaggeration or understatement can be used effectively for emphasis in writing. They can also be used for satiric bite. He give three examples in the reading; Andrew Marvell's carpe diem poem "To His Coy Mistress", Dave Barry in Dave Barry's Bad Habits, and Woody Allen in Without Feathers. In the "For Further Reflection" section he states that exaggeration and understatement are used in ordinary conversation. Humor writers and commedianne use them frequently for quick laughs and they can be used in statire. In writing this segment he must have had my husband in mind. Except that he uses mostly exaggeration. The assignment in today's "Try This" is to use your journal to practice hyperbole and understatement and gives you three prompts:
1. a driver weaving through traffic while talking on a cell phone
2. goings on at a Halloween party
3. anticipating a tooth extraction

Really quick examples:
1. His driving was as erratic as a drunken sailors progress down the sidewalk all the while talking to his imaginary friend, a six-foot white rabbit name "Harvey". He gave little or no notice of those objects and people that he collided with and just kept right on talking.
2. Most of the party goers had opted for the safe standard costumes from the local rental but there were a small cadre of more creative individuals who had gleaned through the latest fantasy games or science fiction novels to fashion their costumes themselves. Some of these ragtag creations demonstrated a complete lack of talent in this area.
3. I approach my annual visit to the dentist in which he will tell me I need to have the aching tooth removed with as much excitement as Anne Bolen approached the executioner's ax.

Oct. 15: Logs

In today's reading the author talks about maintaining logs. Now this was something that I had never considered or done. The examples of scientists keep logs of experiements, pilots and ships captains logs, even architects and construction supervisors but I never considered that artists of all types would, or should, keep logs of their work. However, his reasons for keeping a log make good sense. (1) to keep track of your research and research sources. (2) for writing a novel a timeline, a record of time spent and resources utilized, and of revisions. (3) They are useful for keeping necessary tax records because some items are allowable income tax deductions. In the "For Further Reflections" Section today he suggests that you keep both a log for record-keeping purposes and a journal for recording "raw ideas, character profiles, observations, reflections, daydreams, and rough drafts. This again sounds very reasonable and organized just not something I have never thought of, nor heard about. I can see that you would want to keep up with your expenses, research, etc. so that you would have the information later on.
Today's "Try This" section tells me to keep a log of my next writing project. In this log I am to have various sections in which I record research data, time spent writing, outlining and revising. This sounds like a very good idea and I will try to incorporate that into the four projects I am currently working on.

Oct. 14: "Strange But True"

Today's reading points to something I think it true but wrong and that is our morbid curiosity about people with unusual, offbeat, or weird problems or ailments. The author featured as his examples the original Siamese twins, Chang and Eng Bunker; the person that The Elephant Man was based on, along with a man who had a severe head injury. Sometimes I think that people get some satisfaction out of seeing other peoples struggles either to point at their own life as not being so bad or from some misplaced sense of superiority. One of the prime examples in recent history is the number of reality shows. Rarely is there not a daily post on Facebook about some individual who is a celebrity based on a reality show. The author in his "For Further Reflection" section say he believes "stories about people with bizarre afflictions command our morbid curiosity as well as our sympathy--a powerful combination of emotions that explains why such stories, if written with authority and compassion, are in high demand."
Personally I do not enjoy this type of stories unless there is a strong message of the individual overcoming their difficult circumstances. Therefore I doubt that I will complete the "Try This" assignment any time soon. The assignment is to
(1) Prepare several profiles of strange persons about whom you would like to write an essay or even a book-length biography. Draw from circus histories, medical histories, or psychological case studies.
(2) Develop one of the profiles you prepared for number one into a full-length biographical essay.

Oct. 13: Food Writing

Today's reading is about writing about food. The author list some different food writers and also three books that deal with food writing. In "For Further Reflection" the author states" Food can open a fascinating portal into a culture, a way of living. It's not just the food itself, but the preparation, and the special occasions for serving it. So much of life's little pleasures are tied to food". As I read those word I was instantly transported to first Korea and Germany where I personally experienced other cultures through their food. As well as back to my own childhood as I remembered my mother making all sorts of homemade goodies for different holidays, particularly for Christmas. One of the book series I am currently reading by my now favorite writer Debbie Macomber features a lot of food ideas and traditions. Because of this she has recently published a book of the receipes from this current series. I personal find these stories more personable because of the inclusion of food in some of the scenes.
Today's "Try This" assignment (again left for later)
1. Write an autobiographical essay that is structured around the foods you most enjoyed at different stages in your life.
2. Write a poem in which you capture the pleasure you experience eating a certain kind of food--an artichoke, an ear of corn, a potato chip (perhaps dipped in guacamole), an uncommon food such as a persimmon, or a common fruit like a plum.

Oct. 12: So What?

In today's reading the author suggests that as writers we ask ourselves "So What?" as we progress through our story. The reason he states is so that we are "remind(ed) that our writing won't gt very far if it doesn't offer something of value beyond a superficial conflict situation." He also states that it is not necessary to ask this question at the beginning of our story but instead ask it as we progress. He further states that if we have conceived substantive characters in fascinating social context this shoud come first. "Interesting people and places have a way of leading to satisfying answers to the 'so what?' question. The try this section is again something that I will not have time to work on.
This reading has given me something to consider. I think that some of my writing needs to be reevaluated under this context even though it is meant as fiction. I have noticed that most of the fiction I read does have modern "so what" conflict/controversy co-mingled with the story plots. In addition I defineately need to ask this question in regardings to the articles I write for examiner.com. Since this needs to more like newspaper writing it needs to have that question answered.

Oct 11: Intimate Experiences

Today's meditation is about writing about various types of intimate experiences between characters. The author gives three examples of initimacy other than romantic intimacy; spiritual intimacy, medical intimacy, and initimacy experienced with animals, i.e., Jane Goodall and her chimpanzees, Diane Foosey and her mountain gorillas. In "For Further Reflection" he talks about how some writers are a "bit skittish" about writing about human intimacy, particularly sexual intimacy. However, to give your characters that three-dimensional quality the story may require doing just that and as a writer you will need to get beyond this issue.
In the "Try This" assignment we are asked to:
"1. Describe, in our journal, an intimate experience in a medical, spiritual, or romantic context.
2. Writea story about the way a romantic relationship is formed out of a nonromantic type of intimacy."
I am not going to do that today because each of the four stories I am currently working on all have these facets to them. Two include romantic intimacy, one of a couple who have just met and one of a young married couple. Two include the spiritual intimacy of good friends, both of which are at the just met stage but the point is to build these relationships into deep friendships. Also in the first romantic story is also the story of a family's initimate relationships, some good and some not so good.

Oct. 10: Utopian Visions

Today's writing is about Utopia. The author talks about how even the writer, Sir Thomas More who coined the term Utopia realized that such an ideal stated was most likely impossible. He also stated that the fantasy genre grew out of the writings of More and others during the Renaissance. He further stated that in order for there to be a story there has to be some force which threatens the utopian visions. In "For Further Reflection" the author stated that "Utopias make for wonderful stories provided you include a powerful threat to its existence."
It is sort of amazing that people still continue to seek utopian communities when much of history tells of the fall of such communities due to human failings. One of the glaring memories of this fact that has happened in my time of course was Jim Jones and Jonestown. In many of these situations it seems that unlimited power is the corrupting factor. Power along with greed seem to be the factors that cause the fall of most utopian communites whether fictional or real.
In today's "Try This" assignment the author asks us to "Dream up an idea for a utopian fantasy. Give it either a real-world setting (on some unharted island, perhaps) or a fantasy setting in some alternate universe where magic reigns. Now introduce a formidable evil threat to that society". There are so many examples in classic literature (or even modern movie genre) that depict other famous authors take on this assignment. J.R.R. Tolkein's Lord of the Rings, Star Wars (all 6 movie versions), even the Time Machine. I think these all point to the fact that people yearn for Utopia but a flaw in their character makes Utopia an impossibility.

Oct. 9: Incubation

In today's reading the author likens the first draft of a story or book to an egg. He states that just as a egg needs to incubate for the embryo to develop our writing needs to do the same thing. He recommends that after you finish a first draft you let the project set for awhile. How long depends of several things such as how emotionally spent the writer is after they finish. He also suggests that you shift to another work in progress while setting the first draft aside then when you pick it up again you read through it slowly and make notes then set it aside for another "incubation" period and again slowly read through it again. The try this section today is just that process. Completing a draft then letting it incubate twice, reading it after each incubation period making notes regarding any revisions. He stated that this is necessary to acquire critical distance which is best done by turning your mind to another project. So without knowing it, I have been doing thing. I am currently working of four primary projects with a few others thrown in. I work on one for awhile and put it down, then I turn my attention to another one. Often I turn my attention back to one of the four as part of a daily "try this" idea.

Oct. 8: Technical Details

In today's reading Mr. White illustrates how fields of knowledge often have their technical side and special jargon. He gives the advice that if one of your characters is a professional person then that character needs to use professional jargon some of the time. This can be tricky because the reader may not have any knowledge in this area and have no idea what the character is talking about. A device to overcome this that he recommends is to have another character interrupt the professional and ask for clarification. Another technique that I have had some writers use is an aside remark, like a third party who explains things. Mr. White states that one genre that virtually screams for jargon and technical terms is science fiction and goes on to give the example of Star Trek.
In the "For Further Reflection" Mr. White states that technical details can add realism and believeability to a story. However, the writer needs to gain some firsthand knowledge, not just read about the field. Therefore, in the "Try This" section the assignment is to spend a few weeks learning all you can about the profession of your main character. Not only through reading books but also through field work so that you can pick up the way jargon and technical terms are used naturally on the job. Then be sure to incorporate that jargon in your story.
So far I have not written about a character who has a profession I don't already have some knowledge about.

Oct. 7: Sex

On today's meditation the author deals with the topic of writing about sex. In my case I much prefer to do as some of my favorite authors. Which is to say write in such a way that is not sexually explicit but that conveys sexuality through the use of innuendo, erotically charged language, and sexual tension. One of the things I so dislike about modern media is that sex is always so graphically portrayed. Much prefer when the actual act was a great mystery but that you know some of the character's engage in. I have some very old fashion moral values which are much more conservative now than in my earlier years. I do not think that it is a positive about our culture that "sex sells" whether it is jeans, perfume, or dish detergent today's media seems to think that the only way to sell a product is to use sexuality. Me personally that is just so wrong on every level. In fact today's "try it" section (which again will have to wait until later) is to "write a scene in which a man and woman begin to experience sexual attraction for each other, but write it in a way that is suggestive rather than explicityly sexual." Actually had already planned such a scene for one of the stories I am currently working on.

Oct 6: Wild and Crazy Ideas

Todays meditation is on not ignoring or arbitrarily discarding an idea just because it seems wild and crazy to you. The author reminds us that history is full of ideas that seemed outrageous and unbelieveable at the time. He also shares that wild and crazy ideas can be fun to conjure up just for their own sake. For me personally just the idea of writing would seem to some as a really wild idea, but then the idea of returning to school at the age of 45 was also seen as a crazy idea by some. Fortunately, I have stopped letting other people's opinions dictate my actions. I have always enjoyed learning and hope I always will.
The "try this" section today say "take your wildest and craziest short-story or essay idea and work it into a complete first draft. Set it aide to incubate for a couple of weeks, and then revised as you see fit, taking care to retain its craziness". Right now am going to have to move this one to the old composition book also because I have sat here for 30 minutes and nothing comes to mind. Well that isn't exactly accurate nothing has not come to mind that I have not already read. The only thing that really even pops into my head would need much more research to even move to the first draft point.

Oct. 5: The Future of Books

In today's meditation the author discussed the possible future of having physical books as opposed to digital material/media. I hope that for my lifetime at least we do not do away with physical books. There is something special about certain physical books. Maybe it is sentimentality because for the time I learned to read until I can no longer see (hopefully not before death) I have treasured my moments spent with actual books. I agree with Mr. White that there is something special and aesthetic about a book. A book that you can underline material that was particularly important to you and make notes in the margins. Even for me, fictional novels are something I like to clasp in my hands. There is something special about curling up in a favorite comfortable chair with a book, maybe a special blanket or laprobe draped around you and read a book. It would be even more spectacular if my home had a fireplace to sit beside or in front of, but will have to use my imagination on that one. I also agree with the author that it would be painful to contemplate a world without physical books. Sometimes on long trips I like to listen to an audio book but doubt that I will ever really get into reading a book on the internet.
Today's "try this" section in to interview the librarians at local public or college libraries, about what is the outlook for future maintenance and acquisition of physical books from their perspectives? Then write an article based on the information you obtain.

Oct 4: That's Entertainment!

Today's meditation is regarding how writer are entertainers. I most liked what the author said in the "For Further Reflection" Section: "Readers love to be informed in an entertaining manner. Fiction, we might even say, is philosophy, psychology, history, and sociology dressed up in dramatic scenarious. We learn best when ideas are played out on the stage of everyday experience."
For today's "try this": take a subject you know well and retell it in a way that makes for entertaining reading. For example, if you knwo something about baseball, write an essay about batting technique that would fascinate young readers.

Oct 3: Sensuous Bravura

Today's meditation has to do with the sensuous nature of poetry and also of writing. Mr. White states that "the observations of nonartists tend to be superficial, highly selective; that is, they see only what they wish to see. To see the world artistically, we must learn to penetrate beneath the glittery surfaces of things." The "try this" section is to take a biology textbook and write an essay on the hidden beauty of the human body, or limit your scope to just one set of organs. Remeber that every organ has its own internal components as well, which you should include in your description.

Oct 2: "Masked Woman in a Wheelchair, PA"

Forgot to take my book home over the weekend so am very quickly going to try to catch up. Loved this meditation. One of the things about being a therapist is to try to get folks to drop their masks of denial and work with the reality of their addiction. I know that throughout my life I have used a wardrobe of masks. There is a writing (not certain that it is a poem) about the fact that we all wear masks. The author in the "try this" section of today's meditation asks us to list our masks and then write an essay about why you wear them and two to write a story about a man who likes to dress as a woman (or vice versa) for Halloween. Explore the psychological impulses behind your character's desire to do so. Of course I will not have time to explore either of those today but maybe later in my little composition book.

Oct. 1: Fables

Today's reading is about fables, how they are entertaining reading and yet convey moral values.
They are allegories in which animals behavior and deeds reflect/highlight the behavior and deeds of people. I best liked Mr. White's comment that "fables serve as an objective and powerful lens through which we can best observe human folly." Most of us can easily remember and pinpoint the power messages of the fables we heard and/or read as children and possibly even as adults. Today's "Try This" is again something that it will take great time than I have time for today to accomplish. Another assignment to put in my composition book for later accomplishment and/or reflection.
1. Write a fable in which you make an unusual animal your main character (my thought is to use the animals of either Australia or Tasmania). That is, instead of opting for a cat, a dog, or a bird, try telling your store from the point of view of a snake or a giraffe, or some extinct animal such as a pterodactyl.
2. Read Henry David Thoreau's fable-like description of the battle between red ants and black ants in the "Brute Neighbors" chapter of Walden. Then write your own account of a confrontation between two similar species--say, between squirrels and chipmunks or ducks and geese (prairie dogs and ground squirrles). Give your fable a distinct moral purpose.