We are all the heroes of our own journeys, but we are all stuck in our own points of view too. (Deep, huh)? Before I pontificate madly, let me just offer up a quickfire writing challenge to those of you who may feel too attached to your particular story to see it clearly.
1. In a sentence or 2 or 3 if need be write out the story of your
whole piece (very concrete in terms of narrative): "This is the story
of a man who gets fired from his banking job and decides to take a
trip cross country to visit his brother ..."
that kinda thing.
2. Now imagine someone you respect, but who looks at life, writing, etc.
very differently than you. And imagine their voice describing your
story, but giving their unique perspective. Then write in their voice,
"This is the story of ..."
3. Do it again w/other person.
4. Do it again (thanks Steely Dan), but this time imagining someone who could really blow your mind, a real contrarian who is bound to have a very different take on
your story.
Please note: if you are basically saying the same thing in different ways,
stretch a little. Really aim to pull out different perspectives (a la
Rashoman, Citizen Kane) on the same story.
Then next to #s 2, 3, 4 right a quick note to yourself -- a word, no
more than a sentence in which you can then apply this person's notes
later. Example "Explore revenge theme."
Good luck and let me know how it goes!
And if you want to mainline some inspiration, rent Rashomon & Citizen Kane... NOW. (Netflix be warned).
--Jill Dearman,
writing coach, editor, author, film lover and so many other identities too, why just like you, you and you!
www.bangthekeys.com
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