Sunday, September 09, 2007

Sunday Scribblings: Writing

I love listening to This American Life on NPR. It’s not just the stories that are interesting to me, but also the writing behind the stories. The stories draw me in and hold my attention. I’d like to be that type of writer. The kind whose use of language and mastery of imagery get under your skin and fills your mind.

I am not that writer.

The most frequent advise about deciding what to write that I’ve heard is to write what you know. Good advise, I suppose, but I don’t see why anyone would want to read about the portions of my life that I’m willing to share. I don’t live an exciting life and I don’t see why anyone would care to read about the humdrum life I do live.

Most days the most exciting part of my day is my morning commute and that is not a good kind of exciting. Mostly the commute is frustrating, particularly this time of year when there are new students (Boston is a city full of colleges), faculty who haven't driven into the city in months and the regular commuters. But I digress. My point is that I don't think anyone really wants to hear about the car that made a right turn from the left of three lanes.

So, I will continue to strive toward that goal. Until then, dear reader, you’re stuck with the humdrum. Hopefully every once in a while I will manage a truly interesting post.

3 comments:

p said...

funny I dont listen to the radio here, our reception is horrible so I've stopped. I loved listening to that show back in AZ a few years ago....that and car talk :)

You aren't that writer but you do have things to share and say that are worthwhile.

I would challenge you that I probably would find your commute interesting to read about. I know nothing of boston, I'm all sequestered in my own little basement working by myself and I personally would find it interesting to read about the things you encounter in a city I have yet to go to!..even if it's a commute.

JAXTER said...

I agree with self taught artist. and I do know Boston so when I read the little bits that find their way into your blog I get all excited - I can't believe that after 12 years I still miss MA and Boston so much. I too love This American Life, but I always forget to listen.

Robert Rauschenberg's son maintains that you see more art and interesting sites on the way to the museum than you see in the museum - I think he is right.

Chelle said...

Thanks to both of you for your encouraging words. I am always my own worst critic.