extra credit

1. One of things I found most interesting is when Deloria talked about how the way he came about his first book was very different compared to his second book. He said the first one exploded in his mind in only 60 seconds, but the second one was long and drawn out. I found it reassuring that even notable writers have different methods for creating their various pieces of work. This semester we talked a lot about our writing processes. I found coming up with an initial solid idea was hard because after peer review or even after I start writing I had to chance something about my main idea. Deloria explains that the two books came so differently and thats okay because they are both works he is proud of.

2. One of the other things that caught my attention, was ironically when Deloria discussed the best way to form ideas to write about is to be attentive. And, more importantly not let those moments of attentiveness pass you bye. He says we have to capitalize on them and figure out why that moment caught your eye. Then while he was talking he said something that he found interesting to himself, and goes "thats a great title"meaning for his next piece of work. The way the idea came so naturally to him made me realize that he was not just speaking to hear his own voice. He truly believed the words he is saying. I liked this because I feel that a lot of times I am confused within my own thoughts but as soon as I start speaking them aloud I find clarity.

3. Lastly, he said that he often tries to "turn off" and not focus on his writing. This way when he comes back to his work he has a fresh pair of eyes ready to refocus. He does not see it as a process that can be rushed nor done straight for 3 hours. He feels that you have to make short periods of time to write.

4. As I am looking for classes to take next semester, a poetry class is on my mind. Deloria talked about how the only time he wrote poetry is when someone died. I feel like this is promoting the stereotype that poetry is sad and depressing. While it sometimes is, it most certainly does not have to be. Then they went on to discuss what makes good poetry. To me it is subjective but poetry that makes you think with out blatantly telling you ones emotions and holding a rhythm in the piece is good poetry.