NESS' BLOG

Ness

Okay, now I'm getting paranoid
Monday, November 13, 2006

Well, my Creative Writing class has now moved on from writing exercises to actually writing short stories. I have to say that I'm thankful ( Réncí de Fózǔ ). Trying to write something substantial while keeping under 350 words is ridiculous. I am now very impressed with people who can write insightful drabbles. There's only so much you can do with a page and a bit (double-spaced).

But now that we have moved on, I'm getting a little anxious again. I mostly got over my fear of sharing, but that was with short little exercises that meant nothing to me. I have to share actual stories now, stuff I'll spent a lot of time on. I've been reading the stories my fellow writers have submitted so far and some are really good. I'm thinking to myself, "Wow, how come I can't write like this?"

Looking over my stuff, I'm suddenly coming off like Hemingway. Y'know, short, declarative sentences. Period. And I really don't mean to be and god knows I don't like Hemingway. So I keep asking myself, "What's so great about my writing? How the hell did I get into this class? Did only 17 people submit a portfolio this year?"

I know I shouldn't be thinking this, but one has to wonder. What did the prof see in my writing that was worth cultivating? Yup, that's paranoia settling in.

COMMENTS

Wednesday, November 15, 2006 3:02 PM

BROWNCOATJIM


Let me make a few recommendations: not all great prose has to be flowing prose. Short, t-the-point writing can get your point across just as well. It's finding that right balance. Try reading some John D MacDonald (Travis McGee novels), and some Lawrence Block (Matt Scudder mystery novels). You might even try Robert B. Parker (Spenser). You'll see what I mean.

Tuesday, November 14, 2006 10:36 AM

MSG


Hey Hemmingway is a great 20th century write...be proud and be yourself. That's what truly makes great writing

Monday, November 13, 2006 8:02 PM

BLUEEYEDBRIGADIER


Ah...but it's good paranoia, Ness! Keeps ya honest in your own mind...to an extent;)

Still...you could always put stuff you write up here at the BSR if you got time before the CW class' show and tell session. Practice with people you are sure are gonna give you the skinny...but with shiny padding;)

BEB


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