Oooh I LOVE this! What a fantastic exercise, something I'll definitely have to try myself. ✨
The only thing I'd like to add is a reminder that those other 408 words were not wasted--they are the ore that contains the gold, the sod from which the roses grow. I know how frustrating it is when you discover something new in your work and think, "why didn't I see this before?" but if there's anything I've learned (and I should note, something YOU helped me learn; I'm just trying to return the favor 😅) is that the process matters and as long as you're engaged with the work, it will lead you in the right direction. ❤️
Josh, I could not agree more that the original work--all words intact--is invaluable. I cannot imagine even finding those "undisappearable" words without the scaffolding that shapes them. It may be that the value of this exercise will hone my skills to write more powerfully to begin with, as in my more traditional story structure.
Because I'm following my curiosity, I feel like I'm in a win-win situation. Indeed: "...the process matters and as long as you're engaged with the work, it will lead you in the right direction."
Enjoyed these memorable lines from your post: “I stopped paying homage to artificial structure” and “discover what the story itself believes.” This phrase will also stick with me: “crushing silence.”
I love that this platform has provided me so many opportunities to explore ... not sure I would be finding my 'true North' without you all. Thank you so much for reading.
Nancy, I was surprised how naturally the exercise came for me. I will be the first to admit that this is not something that would probably fit all works of writing, but it certainly helps me see where meaning emerges. Very enlightening so far, but I expect the long-term use will reveal the true value. Thanks for reading! Jennifer
Oooh I LOVE this! What a fantastic exercise, something I'll definitely have to try myself. ✨
The only thing I'd like to add is a reminder that those other 408 words were not wasted--they are the ore that contains the gold, the sod from which the roses grow. I know how frustrating it is when you discover something new in your work and think, "why didn't I see this before?" but if there's anything I've learned (and I should note, something YOU helped me learn; I'm just trying to return the favor 😅) is that the process matters and as long as you're engaged with the work, it will lead you in the right direction. ❤️
Josh, I could not agree more that the original work--all words intact--is invaluable. I cannot imagine even finding those "undisappearable" words without the scaffolding that shapes them. It may be that the value of this exercise will hone my skills to write more powerfully to begin with, as in my more traditional story structure.
Because I'm following my curiosity, I feel like I'm in a win-win situation. Indeed: "...the process matters and as long as you're engaged with the work, it will lead you in the right direction."
Enjoyed these memorable lines from your post: “I stopped paying homage to artificial structure” and “discover what the story itself believes.” This phrase will also stick with me: “crushing silence.”
I love that this platform has provided me so many opportunities to explore ... not sure I would be finding my 'true North' without you all. Thank you so much for reading.
I'm going to need to retire to have the time to do this. But wow! It is an amazing exercise.
Nancy, I was surprised how naturally the exercise came for me. I will be the first to admit that this is not something that would probably fit all works of writing, but it certainly helps me see where meaning emerges. Very enlightening so far, but I expect the long-term use will reveal the true value. Thanks for reading! Jennifer