Yes, deliberate typos in the title. I was in a whimsical mood, Looney Tunes were playing in the background, hot Sunday afternoon....
I went into this course knowing that I can write. I don't mean that in arrogance, just a comfortable confidence. But I also knew I had some weak spots, in particular my ability to cite correctly and reference appropriately. The world of academia has rigid writing standards, and I tend to be very informal in my style and content. I am also not very fond of literary analysis, and my lack of interest in that particular form of writing lends itself to some personal abuses as I struggle and snarl to put ideas to paper.
Professor Cline, let me just say that your course hit those exact weak spots head-on, and I both curse and praise you for that.
As an aspiring psychologist/writer, it goes without saying that writing will be in my future, and knowledge of the formats and research will be integral to my career. I'm currently finishing an APA format research paper for Abnormal Psych, and I'm heavily leaning on the lessons taught in this class. So...if the paper bombs, I'll contact Professor Cline and demand an apology.
The best part about this sort of class is the ability to scan all the different perspectives and interpretations of assigned books and short stories. Our opinions of Bartleby, Ryan Bingham, and Ree Dolly & Teardrop probably didn't coincide, and that's absolutely magical. Wisdom comes with age, but it can arrive sooner if we can see the world from more than just our own two eyes. The mind's eye can lose its focus with the weight of prejudices, biases, and experiences tilting the view. Being able to discard that baggage for just a moment as I read David's paper or Aaron's synopsis is a wonderful way to find a fresh perspective, and by extension re-examine my own position.
I can't say that I enjoyed the writing or reading in this class, in all honesty. As I mentioned, I thoroughly dislike literary analysis. I can't deny, however, that this test of my willpower may come in handy over the next six or seven years as I continue my education through (hopefully) a doctorate program in psychology.
Who knows? Perhaps I'll finance my education with a book or two, if I can figure out how to do that without the work being discarded to the slough pile by a young intern who never even read the book nor presented it to the editor...
For my classmates, thanks for the input, thanks for laughing at my irreverent moments, and my best wishes for your future, whatever it may be. Just don't give up on the education, mates. Borrow, steal, kill...but keep hitting them books!
James Carr
I would agree with many of your comments James. I did not particularly enjoy literary analysis either and tried to make the best of it. I think you are right when saying that the ability to take from each others work through these blogs was indeed beneficial. Overall I enjoyed the course considering the writing style was not my absolute favorite. Good Post.
ReplyDeleteHello again James,
ReplyDeleteIll start off by saying that your post and views in this class were by far my favorite to read. They were always very truthful and hilarious at times. In my reflection I also wrote about the troubles I had with the readings we were assigned. I differ because I did like the analytic approach we had to use in this class. Maybe for the reason it was new to me. I wish you success in reaching your goals. Thanks for an interesting semester!
Lauren
James,
ReplyDeleteTo begin, I must express gratitude you for your superb input and suggestions throughout the semester. Your writing is top-notch and there is much to gain from your expertise. Your ability to optimize flow and "word-smith" are most notable. I have thoroughly enjoyed your light, upbeat, yet articulate and informative blogs. I too was humbled by the course and realize there is always room to improve. I agree with the bit about fresh perspectives; it is easy to be consumed by one’s own biases. Literary analysis has been a struggle for me as well. Composition is not one of my strong suits as I am more of a physiology and nutrition enthusiast. Best of luck in finishing your doctorate program; undoubtedly, your writing skills will help you succeed. As for me, as far as writing is concerned, this is essentially the end of the road. My GenEds are completed and I will now participate almost exclusively in biology/ medical science at NAU. Great post and thanks again.
-Aaron
James,
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed all of your writing this semester. Your wittiness and way with words has been inspirational to say the least. I aspire to be even half a writer you are and I will be that much better. I agree that this class has been difficult with all of the analyzing but you have seemed to get the hang of it. I wish you luck in your future and will be looking for many books to come by you.
Take care.
James, as always, your work never fails to inspire me, humor me and make me envious. You are a brilliant mind that walks that perfect line of flow and sarcasm. I would never doubt your ability to not only publish a book, but to make your readers fall head over heels for your way with words. All semester I have enjoyed your blogs and, might I add, have been a bit jealous of your ability to make your thoughts and opinions so brilliantly worded. If you are half as good at all your other classes as you've been in this class, you will go far my friend. It has been a pleasure to be in this class with you. Good luck with that doctorate, I have no doubt you will be a famous author someday!
ReplyDelete_Kyle Audis