Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Real Writers Don't Burn Out
Wow. Murray's piece was awe-inspiring. Like Murray, I have always been a writer, pursuing both creative and journalistic writing. However, I have not had the gumption to defy the norm that Murray seems to have. His article suggested to me that perhaps I have been too easily succumbing to teachers' and editors' expectations. I write a news article that is clean, well-written and much-appreciated by my newspaper advisor; thereafter, I craft every piece like it. Upon reflection, I think that I may have grown too comfortable following the guidelines for writing articles and essays. I may have forgotten that an article can meet every standard (starts with a strong lead, follows the inverted pyramid form, has quotes appropriately placed and is spelling error free) but still lack substance. In the future, I plan to compose my articles not for the editor, but for the reader. In essence, I hope to write pieces more innovatively, and in turn create a more creative product. The only question is: where to start?
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I agree that Murray's work was interesting, inspiring, and unique. His personal touch was heartfelt and poignant.
ReplyDeleteAndi, have you taken any creative writing classes? Diversifying your writing portfolio can enhance your abilities across many disciplines. I took an independent study course this year with one of my favorite high school teachers, and I got so much more out of it than I have from most structured high school classes. Your education is what you make of it, and it's important for you to take writing knowledge and use it in a wide variety of applications.
That's an excellent idea, and fortunately I signed up for a creative writing elective next year. Hopefully that will help!
ReplyDeleteI signed up for that class too andi.
ReplyDeleteSometimes in the world of journalism and newspapers, it's hard to stay in the realm of direct, informative writing while incorporating elements of creative writing.
There have been times where I have given something to my journalism advisor and he has returned it because it was too abstract. I have so much trouble finding that balance that I need for very interesting journalistic writing. Hopefully, I can bring the two different worlds of writing together and truly form a style with my writing.
How many people here are interested in creative writing whether it be prose or poetry?
Today we learned about anecdotal ledes. I think those maybe the best way to enhance this skill for anyone who doesn't have that creative flair. Take a story you've written or always wanted to write. And then plan overall how you would write it, then do something entirely different. Tell details for a minute. (probably better to not try to publish it).
ReplyDeleteThat is a very good point Will. I would like to believe I have that personal flair you mentioned, but based off of peer editing I know I could use more practice. Unfortunately my school doesn't offer a Creative Writing course, but I do have the opportunity to join our literary magazine.
ReplyDeleteMurray's piece really was emotionally touching, and that type of writing he demonstrated is similar to how I try to write and what I want to improve on.
Personally my main foucus relates to my verbal skills, considering I would like to go into broadcasting. I do recognize that I need to have a strong background in writing and journalism if I want to make it on the television or radio. Murray gave me insight on this, showing me that I can't just take this class for that particular reason of pursuing my dream. I have to do this because I actually love writing.
I love writing what is simply on my mind, or what I feel is important to write about at the time, which is why if I don't go into broadcasting being a columinst would be great. I really need to improve on my skills however, and I will definitly be using the 23 best tips to writing.
I also am interested in both creative writing and journalism and find it difficult to balance the two.
ReplyDeleteI've taken a couple of creative writing courses and I think they are really important to help you focus on the details of your writing. For example, in the last course I took we did a lot of exercises where we had to describe something with only concrete details, which turned out to be challenging since we often lead towards emotions, even if concrete imagery is a better way to describe something. So definately take creative courses if you can because they can really help.
I really enjoyed Murray's work as well and I admire his ability to write so beautifully as a journalist and while using elements of creative writing. I hope to someday discover the same combination of creative and journalistic writing.