Monday, October 6

So writing the truth just gets more complicated. In class we discussed the kinds of liberties journalists and creative nonfiction writers are tempted to take with truth - rounding the corners (creating scenes + dialog); compressing time or collapsing dialog, creating composite characters - even inventing testimony or support for the point they are making. Then - in addition to these temptations - there are issues that are not exactly about truth - but about ethics - who does the story belong to? what gives the author the right to write it? what kinds of stories shouldn't be told - and when might you get in legal trouble (even if your revelation is true?) We didn't seem to come to agreement on these issues - and Angel even made it more complicated by suggesting that artistic concerns - whether or not a piece contributes something of lasting value or importance - should also weigh in with the ethical concerns. AND (as if there isn't enough to think about) after class - Liz pointed out that because there are many taboo topics in our culture - writing personal experiences with mental illness, domestic violence, rape, criminal activites => experiences associated with shame, blame or both - provides family, friends as well as the central actors in parallel experiences with the language and validation that they may not be able to find in another place. Writers tell us stories about - help us think about - areas of human behavior that we are too ashamed or too confused to talk about with "real" people. They can help relieve the sense of isolation and alienation of individuals who are "outside" what the culture says is "normal". So that is a counterpoint to the ethical reasons for not telling a story that might make the "characters" in the story uncomfortable or embarassed.

So I think it is safe to say that this is a complicated decision - and that individual writers will go by their individual lights.

You have signed up for conferences on your first essay (and discussion of the topic for your next essay). I will return your essay with feedback during your conference.

For Wednesday - read the two articles about the James Frey debacle - and post to your blog about your experience writing your first essay (see the prompt posted on the calendar).

Also - in addition to posting your essay on your blog -send me a copy at the address for this course: ENG3017@gmail.com.

Good discussion today. I have lots to think about. See you Wednesday.