The Writing Process

Do you like having this public space?

I enjoy using the blog when I have a chance. I do feel, though, as if it were more an assignment than a personal project. I think, however, after the class is done I will continue to use it more as a personal, writerly space even though I would need some time to experiment with its features, and work out technical kinks that inhibit me from feeling totally comfortable on the blog. Ideally, I’d like this to be a space where I could receive a lot of feedback and even engage with other writers in a sort of cyber discourse about personal writings, and writing in general. I also like keeping friends and family up to date by giving them access to the blog. However, it may be here where problems arise.

Does it bring up any concerns/fears?

Although I’m answering questions for this post a little out of order I figured it would make more sense, considering how my last answer ended, to segue from the last question into this question, immediately. Receiving real feedback from other writers and hearing friends and family comment about the blog in conversation, over the phone etc. is for me jarring because I write, for the most part, without the reader in mind. Writing and posting something can be easy enough but the moment a response is illicited and I realize I have an audience all kinds of fears and concerns wash over me. I have become more censored because of this space. My parents have access to it so I feel my content is limited. Also, I do fear hurting or upsetting my audience. I have some ideas about race that, although I don’t consider them racist in the least, may be misconstrued, because of the fact that race is such a fragile subject. So for now, I feel like this space tests my confidence as a writer and I’m interested to see what strength or ingenuity I can muster to pass, or fail.

Do you find this space useful?

I think this space is useful in again providing feedback, but also because it acts as a context in which to really develop my writing and myself, as a writer.

The next prompt question asks how I conceive the space–as an assignment or “does it force you to think more closely about how you conceive of yourself as a writer?”

Obviously, in developing these answers I’ve answered that question. If I continue closely with the blog it will definitley have value for me, and my writerly personality. On the other hand if I don’t, it could do the same. What would it say about my motivation for and desire for status as a writer? What would it say about my commitment and discipline? I guess I could almost feel threatened by this blog. Its as if, if I don’t take the opportunity I could be condemning myself and my writing forever. But, lets hope its not that serious, and, lets hope I keep up with the blog–it is fun.

Stephanie

ps. my suggestions for improving or expanding upon the blog assignment are as follows…

1) More required assignments surrounding the reading of and responding to others’ blogs.

2) Blog response for every reading.

3) Required amount (maybe 5?) of extra –personal– blog posts. As was mentioned, for thought experimentation, sharing etc.