As a writing instructor at a fabulous, small town, liberal-arts college, I am forever trying to help my students realize the purpose of the process of writing. The first draft is probably not going to get a fabulous grade. Each student must practice - through the process of writing, revising, deleting, re-wording, moving, until something meaningful is born.
These ideas are not revolutionary, nor are they original. For me, though, they represent something deeper than a blurb to add to a teaching philosophy for a CV. They are true. And just because I have some diplomas on my wall doesn't mean that they don't apply to me anymore. I need to struggle alongside my students to become a better teacher. I need to practice writing for my own professional development, but I don't want to practice writing a persuasive argument or a literary term paper. I've paid my dues in that department. So, this virtual space serves as my own writing assignment. And just like my students, I sometimes struggle the most with choosing a topic.
I do often find other writers inspiring, so I hope to spend time each week reflecting on other people's genius. Mostly in song lyrics, but also in great books and articles, I find clear and beautiful grains of truth. So, here are my thoughts on the thoughts of others--Original Plagiarism.