Journal 4: Response to Creative Non-fiction from Bethany

Part of the chapter that stood out to me were the checklists. One question it asks "are the characters believable?" It explains that out characters should be real but also unique. They should have believable goals and emotions. The concept that helped me the most was "telling the truth." The section acknowledges that memories are rarely perfect, but searching through thoughts gives us ideas of what to write about. "Tell the truth," says Laurie Lynn Drummond, "even if it makes you wince." "Ironically, of course, the memories that make us the most uncomfortable are often the very ones that make the best subject matter for out essays."(Page 181). I completely agree with this. When I was trying to find a picture to describe and tell a story, the truth made me feel embarrassed. I thought to myself that I wasn't sure how much I wanted to share. Once I decided to tell a truthful story, I found that it was easy to write. I like the story, even with the truth.

My question is, how can I write myself into nonfiction without talking about myself and my feelings too much? I know my thoughts and feelings more than anyone else's in the scenario, so explaining things from my point seems more reliable.

When reading the "Liferower" I wondered what the story was really about. It starts with her simply working out. But then she switches to talking about her sister having children. Which is why I am free to come here to the Y and row my heart out three times a week." She states this in the third paragraph. She worries about having no one to take care of or take care of her. An aspect I notice she uses is personal connection and personal vulnerability. She tells her fears, her failed marriage and an abortion. It works because it creates the story and gives the reader empathy. She also applied the aspect of research in addition to personal expenditure.