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DAVID BENTLEY'S WEEKLY COLUMN |
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EXPLORATION & GROWTH
"Brokeback Mountain" has received massive amounts of media attention. Part of that is due to the subject matter, and part is due to the number of awards it's winning. Based on a short story by Annie Proulx, the movie has people from all segments of the population talking. I decided to investigate the author's web site, and discovered a woman who is passionate about writing and has a clear view of how to go about it. Proulx had information regarding "Brokeback Mountain" on her site, and even provided a transcript of an interview about the movie and the short story. However she clearly stated that she is no longer granting interviews on the subject as it has taken up too much of her time. Instead, she wants to get back to the business of writing. On her page of frequently asked questions, Proulx responded to a query about whether she taught classes. She unequivocally answered that she does not teach writing classes. Then she stated that if a person wants to become a good writer that person should read voraciously. I've been thinking about that response for several days now. As an educator, it is difficult to hear a successful author state that taking a class may not be the best way to learn. It is also odd to hear someone who is successful in her field state that she does not teach classes as a way of sharing her talent. My conclusion is that Proulx is encouraging us to explore what those who have gone before us have done, to decide what works and what doesn't work, to mull it over in our minds, to listen to our inner guidance, to explore and play with our own style and ability, and to stretch ourselves while learning from our mistakes. Life is about finding our own path, with guidance and understanding, rather than simply following formulas.
© 2006 David Bentley David Bentley, M.Ed. & Personal Coach, coaches clients through the game of life, helping them find balance, clarity of direction, and purpose in an ever-changing world. You may contact him at 360.378.8436 by e-mail at david@coachbentley.com or visit his Web site: www.coachbentley.com |
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