Amanda Pruett

Masterpiece Development (Essay 2)

            Throughout the semester, the objectives of the class appeared present in every class meeting. We worked through the constructive criticism offered from each classmate, we learned that every submission is a “work in progress,” and that it is impossible to develop a masterpiece overnight.

            As each person presented their piece, whether it was poetry or fiction, each person of the class offered their advice and suggestions as a means to help the author enhance their submission. Though most workshops were positive and helped each person develop new insight towards fiction, a couple of workshops ended in a negative note. The suggestions and feedback along with the reading and class lecture were extremely helpful; however, select students were not always aware of the class in general which caused minor disruptions that often led the class in an unintended direction. Fortunately, the professor, as well as the majority of the class, was always able to pick the class back up and continue with the weekly lessons. This helped us develop and work through objective one.

            Each week we revisited objectives three and four as we discussed another person’s writing submission. We were all able to understand that our work was under construction and that there was always room for improvement. I believe the class as a whole would agree that no masterpieces were developed over night.

            With this, the reoccurring lecture that remained with me is the suggestion to work on your submission for a while, take a break, and then work on it more. It is very difficult to develop a story in one sitting; therefore, it was beneficial to be reminded that breaks can be helpful. This especially helped me with the development of my story.

            I believe the workshops that stood out to me the most were Christi’s and Jeff’s. Christi wrote her story from the perspective of a male character. I have never thought about this using this format in a story. It’s usually assumed that the gender of the person writing the story is also the same gender as the main character. I was impressed with her attempt. In addition, I think Jeff offered us a great story through his dialogue. Upon reading his story the first time, I was thoroughly impressed with his bravery to present a work with such adult language. No one had nor would present a story with this content so it was invigorating to read his story.

            The reading assignments not only helped me understand the different aspects of every style of writing as well as the rules and expectations, but it also helped me understand the writing styles that people chose through their personal characteristics. For example, chapter 22 says, “If you listen analytically to people you know, you will discover that many have distinctive rhythms,” (page 245). I noticed that if a student was calm and spoke softly, this tone was also present in their work. Additionally, the reading also mentioned the effects of an epiphany which is, “an important moment of recognition or discovery,” (chapter 18, page 205). In each workshop, as we discussed the possibilities and directions for the stories, there were always a few suggestions that led to significant changes in the story which help to enhance it dramatically.

            It was easy for follow the objectives throughout the semester in each class meeting because they were always present in some form or shape. I believe they helped us to develop our writing pieces and will help us with further development in our future classes.