Today we focussed on how authors create memorable characters indirectly through describing objects or settings that could represent how they feel, their attitude or perspective.
Indirect presentation is used predomninantly in modern short story writing. Next, we bagan an exercise which I adapted from the great John Gardner's book, The Art of Fiction. Go buy it!
We reviewed the criteria for handing in workin an English 10A class: (follow the literary must-haves list, no ripped or scribbled-on sheets, typed or in blue or black ink, double spaced etc).
By respecting your work, you are respecting me and taking responsibility for your learning. We do not do "dumb" assignments in an English honours class. Each assignment requires certain skills. Like muscles, to keep in shape, we must practice. You MUST meet the deadlines or see me well in advance to establish a different deadline. Do not arrive on the day an assignment is due to ask for an extension. That practice is not honourable as it does not respect the learning environment. Often assignments are needed to be done in order to begin the next assigment. You do not want to be held back after school and have to have me email your coach because a paragraph is overdue.
Friday: Your best version of the paragraph on the significance of the title to theme in Alden Nowlan's short story is due. Ensure it has a title, a date and your first and last name.
Tonight: In your creative writing journal, describe the restaurant this time from the boyfriend's point of view. His perspective is uncomfortable because he has to end the relationship with the young woman due to the fact that a former woman has returned and he wants to rekindle that initial relationship. He feels badly about the situation and reluctant to break it off.
Describe the restaurant (sights, sounds, smells, etc) which will depict his ambivalence and discomfort.
Start with
John sees Emily sitting at the table by the back wall.
(Now describe the restaurant). Be prepared to read this piece to the class. 100 to 200 words would be great. Please be indirect. Do not say directly how he is feeling. Choose apt details, appropriate diction, and dialogue which suggests and implies his distraught state.
Good luck. Great work today. You make me laugh and I love to laugh.
