At a recent writing workshop a thoughtful writer said, “I am afraid if we follow too many required formulas for our writing we will lose our uniqueness and individuality.” Provoking an elaboration, someone said, “What is authentic writing?” Our focused task of supportive critiquing did not allow much time for further discussion of the thought. Yet as writers, it seems such a consideration is worthy of reflection. It might offer some peace of mind to have personal resolution with such a fine-line question.How far do we follow the rules and still preserve the words and expressions that are uniquely our own?
In the words of contemporary American novelist, Don Delillo, “Writing is a form of personal freedom … it frees us from the mass identity we see in the making of all around us. In the end, writers will write … to save themselves and survive as individuals.”
When you write, are you fighting for freedom – escaping a burdoned mind, pleading for a listening ear, exploding with joy and gratitude, offering a legacy of story that cannot be contained within the confines of your finite existence? Are you writing to “survive” as Delillo suggests in his observation of the writing life? Does the act of putting your words on paper “complete you” (Tom Cruise, Top Gun, 1986)? Are these considerations the basis of your writing authenticity? Is this important to you?
On the other hand, when we expose our writing to public eye view, do we have certain responsibilities that require us to adhere to rules, follow guidelines, meet the parameters of age-old structures? What is our responsibility to our reader? Most would agree that certain structures involving writing mechanics (spelling, punctuation, syntax, grammar) must be in place. Yet what about style and the manner in which we deliver our expressions? Do we have free reign or do we have responsibilities?
Perhaps the words of Terry Southern, American author, essayist, screenwriter and lecturer, will add another dimension to conversation about authenticity, personal freedom, public view and the eye of the reader:
“The important thing in writing is the capacity to astonish. Not to shock – shock is a worn-out word, but astonish.”
As you ease into a cozy corner with your journal in hand, dear friend, consider the questions in this entry. I hope it will give you some clarity of thought, direction of purpose and success in your written expressions.
Hope you will join me next week as we SPIN A GOOD YARN in our cozy corner.
‘Til we meet again, HAPPY WRITING . . . .
4 thoughts on “CAPTURING THE WHOLE ENCHILADA?”
I hope I’m writing with abandon, but that inner critic keeps reminding me that someone has to enjoy reading this when I am done. It’s a tricky balance between writing for me and writing to be read. It has gotten easier since I’ve been journaling though! Lots of the rambling can stay there while the audience-worthy ideas come join me when I want to write a new chapter of my book.
The dichotomy between “freedom” and “responsibility” may be a red herring — a fake issue. Freedom does not equate with abandon or license. Responsibility is not the same as effectiveness. If I seek to communicate with someone effectively, I must always consider the capacity of that someone to understand my message. If I journal only for myself, I will use my “rules’ — usually English, for starters. If my “someone” reads only Spanish, that is my perameter. If I wish for the judge to grant my proposed Order, I better not write slang or poetry. With every communication, except the completely garbled insane or a broken computer, there are patterns to which we will adhere, in order to be effective. Within the patterns we choose, we are more free than if we abandon them. Responsibility implies an obligation to use the patterns that another person needs: I would call it a choice, so that I may reach my goal of communicating effectively.
Valid and clearly articultated thoughts, Nancy. Thanks much for stopping by!
Trish
Windy, love your thoughts about unloading the “Nigels,” to allow for forward movement of your novel. I am going to keep that in mind about my novel as well.
Thank you for stopping by!
Trish
I hope I’m writing with abandon, but that inner critic keeps reminding me that someone has to enjoy reading this when I am done. It’s a tricky balance between writing for me and writing to be read. It has gotten easier since I’ve been journaling though! Lots of the rambling can stay there while the audience-worthy ideas come join me when I want to write a new chapter of my book.
The dichotomy between “freedom” and “responsibility” may be a red herring — a fake issue. Freedom does not equate with abandon or license. Responsibility is not the same as effectiveness. If I seek to communicate with someone effectively, I must always consider the capacity of that someone to understand my message. If I journal only for myself, I will use my “rules’ — usually English, for starters. If my “someone” reads only Spanish, that is my perameter. If I wish for the judge to grant my proposed Order, I better not write slang or poetry. With every communication, except the completely garbled insane or a broken computer, there are patterns to which we will adhere, in order to be effective. Within the patterns we choose, we are more free than if we abandon them. Responsibility implies an obligation to use the patterns that another person needs: I would call it a choice, so that I may reach my goal of communicating effectively.
Valid and clearly articultated thoughts, Nancy. Thanks much for stopping by!
Trish
Windy, love your thoughts about unloading the “Nigels,” to allow for forward movement of your novel. I am going to keep that in mind about my novel as well.
Thank you for stopping by!
Trish