Surprise!

     The text that we are reading for our Comm 337 class has so far given me a wide variety of useful information. One piece in particular that we are studying is the use of surprise(s) in writing. Whether or not its journalistic writing, 'reporting for surprise' is a sure way to make a good story.
     "The best writers seek surprise, delight in what they do not expect to find. They come to the story with a focus, an expectation...treasure the contradiction, the traitor fact, the quotation that goes against the grain..." Take this advice any way you want. Murray states that when exploring the world, a writer should look for what is not there as much as what is there. Hear things that people aren't saying as much as the things they are saying. Use your imagination!
     My favorite type of writing is creative writing. I feel that the more I write, the more I am able to express myself. So far in my career, I have focused on journal writing for pleasure, poetic writing for class, and brainstorm writing for stress relief! I have also figured out that copy writing for the advertising industry interests me. I try and use my imagination and be creative. However, I never heard about the "surprise" before reading this book. I think that Murray makes a great point after great point in describing what he means by using the writer's craft, using the writer's 10 senses, and asking the reader's five questions.
     Seeing the obvious: "The reader's appetite for fresh stories is never satisfied, and as soon as you get an idea, it's used up." He says that it is vital to suspend the censor, be willing to be silly (How fun.), and just list specifics. I like his advice about mapping. It is similar to brainstorming, I think, can be much more abstract.
     I strive to be one of those writers who carries a notebook at all times. I think I will be one day. Right now my bag that I carry everywhere with me contains everything but the kitchen sink and a notebook. As a busy single mom, I think I prepare for anything on a regular basis. I am working towards making room for that notebook. I feel that if I had a notebook with me, I might be able to: 1. Not forget as many things and ideas. 2. Write down my feelings. 3. Turn those feelings and ideas into stories!
     Things I like to write about: The news. I am fascinated by what goes on in our community, nation, and world. So many people complain all day long about our government, our crime rates, and situations that can't be helped. Do I think that I am going to bring all of our soldiers home and pull out of war? No, however if I really wanted to I could write the President every day and let him know how I felt. Every body who complains could do this as well. I feel that as Americans we have a voice. We should let our voice be heard (not necessarily by writing the president every day, but you catch my drift). If we don't like what is going on in our community, why not try and fix it?
                                               Journaling: Throughout my life, I have kept several journals. The only truly active journal I have right now is for my daughter. Her name is Vaida. When I found out I was expecting, I started writing a journal for her. In there, I write down her milestones, I tell her how she is making me so proud, I include anything and everything I can think of that I think she will want to know one day. (Don't worry this journal does not take the place of a baby book or anything. She has two baby books, a calendar for milestones, and a continuous scrapbook PLUS this journal.)
                                               Poetic writing: In the past, I have taken several poetry classes. They have probably been a few of my favorite classes. I liked both to be given a topic, and to come up with a topic. I liked to be given instruction, and make my own instruction. I think poetry is so neat in that you can write however you please, about whatever you please, and others will enjoy it too! I also enjoy reading poetry.
     So, how can I apply Murray to my writing? I take his advice. I love getting new advice anyway! The techniques that Murray advises are interesting, as well. I like the following: Change your point of view. Pursue a new interest. Keep a notebook (I need to do this right now). Compost: My mother calls me a packrat, and I can now say that I am "composting." I think that in years to come, great stories could come of everything I am "composting." Role-play: "It is our obligation to at least use our imaginations to extend the limits of our world" (I love this). Try another game. Read outside your interests. Free write. These are just a few of my favorite techniques that Murray explains. I really think that he (and you) will make me a much better writer.
     My Voice: Its a lovely day today. Actually, every day is a lovely day. A year ago I probably would not have said that, however somebody very special has come into my life. Her name is Vaida Joy Keen. I feel that she has "put me in my place." As I sit here and look out the window, I see her swing swaying in the tree. She isn't occupying it because she is napping, however, as I look out there I picture her singing and laughing as I push her and tickle her toes. She loves to listen to the birds, feel the breeze, and sing to her mommy. She is a very brave little girl and I just pray that she stays that way forever. Some days she tests me, I think to see how brave her mommy really is. Words cannot explain how brave I am striving to be. I want her to have the best possible example to follow because she is a star. She is a star in my eyes, and always will be.
     I am not afraid to dream of a fairy tale. This fairy tale is already coming true. I see her and I and the rest of our unknown family growing together. Her shirt is a light purple, and it reminds me that one day we are going to be planting lilacs together under the windows to give us a refreshing start to our day!