Yesterday in English 145 we reviewed (among many other things) the mini-profiles the students had written about each other—small snatches cooked up from last week's interviews. It proved to be a session that went far beyond talk of technique and deep into the heart of many matters—compassion, accuracy, and the power of careful listening not least among them. Writing about another is no mere exercise, not just an opportunity to strut one's literary stuff. It is as well the commitment we must make to doing right by those of whom we ask our questions, those to whom we turn our thoughts.
Perhaps no one will ever see in us precisely what we believe is us. We require evidence, however, that the effort has been made.
5 Comments on English 145 (7): In the Eyes of Beholders, last added: 11/10/2009
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And sometimes other people see more than we knew was there.
Good thoughts on social responsibility.
So often, I wonder if anyone actually "sees" me. Can I even see what I'm all about? Great post Beth.
Is this picture from taxidermy land?
I love your observations about the integrity of perception and fidelity to fact that's involved in the writing process, Beth. Those are things that are toughest to teach . . .