Monday, October 26, 2009

Writing Down the Bones

Writing Down the Bones, Freeing the Writer Within by Natalie Goldberg. I really think everyone should read at least a chapter in the small, compact book full of inspiration and great perspective of writing. Someone I work with gave me this book to read during my free time because I told him I was a writing major. This book is absolutely incredible! Each chapter can be read on its own or collectively. The author gives advice and reasoning for writing as a means of "becoming intimate" with ourselves. She has incredible insight and her theories are relatable on multiple levels. This is because she looks at writing from the perspective of doing something you love. Whether it be cooking, running, animals even business management; her advice can reach and grab you. She talks about poetry, creative and free writing and gives advice such as: "keep your hand moving, don't cross out, don't worry about spelling punctuation or grammar, lose control, don't think don't get logical and go for the jugular." What she says really makes sense and gives you a whole other outlook on the craft/art of writing. I know I use writing as a way to express whatever I am feeling at the time. Our love for writing (which we all share)is not only a talent we've pursued but also an outlet we all have in common. This book really gives you a whole other perspective on what we love and how we can further encourage our own writing skills. I really think a lot of you guys would truly enjoy this book and I highly suggest you read it! If anyone does, let me know what they think!

3 comments:

  1. Aly, I read this book in college and really liked it, too. Maybe we can copy a good chapter for a staff meeting some time.

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  2. Oh, and an interesting book with a similar title is Nancy Mairs' "writing Down the Bonehouse." -- a meditation on writing via memoir.

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  3. I think having this book, or at least some chapters, to look at and discuss would be a great idea. I really loved the book and think it is an incredible perspective to take on writing.

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