Opinions On The Book, "Writing Down the Bones."

     In class, we have started to read the book, "Writing Down the Bones" by Natalie Goldberg. At first I was a little skeptical on this book because some books that are assigned in classes can be somewhat boring. However, I think this book is very intriguing. The author gives some of the most inspiring tips on how to write better and they can apply to other things in life that is hard to do. For example, in the chapter Fighting Tofu, she gives a tip on how to stop the resistance you may have on writing. She says, "I'll wake up in the morning and say, Okay, Natalie, you have until ten A.M to do whatever you want. At ten you must have a pen. I give myself some space and an outside limit." This can apply to more than just writing, like it can apply to homework, or a dreaded chore. She also gives the advice, " When it comes to writing, keep your hand moving, don't cross out or worry about spelling, lose control," etc. Personally, this is a good mindset for me to use because it is hard for me to write something great because I constantly cross, edit, and stop to think about my writing. Her advice of "lose control" can really help me to stop thinking how to write, but just to write in general. 

     The chapter, "Writing as a Practice," can be helpful to many beginning writers. The author explains that if you write everyday, eventually you'll be able to be comfortable with your writing and ideas will come out easier. The more someone practices on their writing, they began to lose control and they will start to get into their writing and making it much smoother. Goldberg often talks about her students in this chapter, pointing out that losing control in your writing becomes a physical thing. People and even yourself will be able to see a looser posture when you or someone is in the zone of writing. Having writing practice everyday can also help you find a voice for anything you write about, whether it's essays or dissertations. "We must continue to open and trust in our own voice and process," is probably one of my favorite lines in this book because that is one big thing that I need to work on as a writer. I spend so much time wondering if what I write sounds good or if it is "correct" and it seems like the words crumble with lack of voice. This totally made me feel empowered to do writing practices because if I do this, I may be able to trust my own voice and will be more comfortable with my own words.

     Another chapter that inspired me to write more, is "Composting." When writing, I always feel like I could write certain topics, and then when I do, it doesn't come out right. My thoughts are always shallow and just the first layer of my thoughts. I never go deeper into my thoughts. This chapter made me realize that regardless, it just takes time and practice. If I want to have deeper thoughts and write them, I must be patient and "work the compost pile." I know that if I follow Goldberg's advice from this chapter, I will hopefully be able to write my deeper thoughts, thus making my writing more rich. The "compost" takes time to nourish, but in the end it will bring out something beautiful.

     This book has taught me a lot of things that will help improve my thoughts on writing and my writing in general. A lot of the advice that is given can be used towards anything, as long as you put your mind to it and be patient. Personally, I really need to take the advice of being patient, because I lack a good portion of being patient. With patience, whatever you create will become something marvelous. I cannot wait to read the rest of this book because I know there will be more amazing advice that could help with my writing. I intend to use this book as a reference as well.