Course Reflection

In my last blog, I talked about how I’m not that interested in the environment, at least not enough to volunteer or take any kind of real initiative. And I’m just being honest here. I can’t lie. When I signed up for this class I secretly hoped I could turn the idea of “nature” into something else, something that I like. In the first class we talked about the definition of nature and I felt like it could be as broad as anyone wanted it to be, that we didn’t have to write like Thoreau or Frost. I wanted to subscribe to the Pattiann Rogers definition of nature, that it could really be anything. I thought I could get away with writing a bunch of blue-collar, labor poetry and say that’s part of my nature, so it fits. But I have since changed my mind.

First of all, visiting my spot has come to mean something so much more important to me than I thought it would. Most of the time I brought my daughter with me and I have loved every minute of watching her enjoy the animals. She’s learning and having fun at the same time. The funny thing is, I feel like I’ve been learning too.

This class was my first foray into writing creative non-fiction. I’ve learned that it’s something I want to do more of. I know I need a lot more practice, but I feel like I have a much better understanding now of the fundamentals. Mix exposition with reflection and scene. Don’t just tell the reader where you’ve been. Instead, bring them with you. Show them where you’ve been. Help them feel what you feel. Be active and dynamic, not anecdotal. These are things that I didn’t realize before, make good writing. Sure, for the first draft it’s fine to just get something down. But when you’re writing for an audience, use these tools of craft to move your reader. Help them appreciate the work you do. Don’t just expect them too.

And the idea of writing about nature and the environment doesn’t mean you have to write like Thoreau or Edward Abbey. Nature can be your frame. The place where you begin so you can get to what’s deeper inside. I’ve decided that every time I write something what I’m doing is searching for epiphany.

As far as environmental issues go, I still haven’t talked myself into being more active. But not doing something, doesn’t mean I lack appreciation. It just means I haven’t gotten there yet. I know that my writing is better when I get out and experience the environment. I think right now that’s enough for me. I’ll use it to become better at what I do. Hopefully, with time and practice, I’ll be able to give something back. I’ll keep writing until I do. Thank you, Sheryl, for a great class.