The essay by Nancy Sommers explores the concept of writing which can vary strongly based on the context, ideas, and purpose. Writing is both a skill and an art, never set in stone or adhering to some rigid structures, which is what makes the process uniquely charming and personal. The primary theme of this piece argues that writing comes from within, a conjugation of personal ideas and sources of knowledge and experience acquired over a lifetime, with the process of drawing connections and relaying this through eloquent words.
One element of Sommer’s discussion that was appealing is the discussion of what constitutes facts. Truth and facts are based strongly on what an individual believes, such as the four-leaf clover or the rabbit’s foot bringing good luck as the examples that the author gives. We are taught that in search of facts and the truth, we must turn to academia, with thousands of researchers exploring every topic possibly imaginable before us. While it is important to search for information, translating this to writing and personal ideas is a whole another dimension. I agree with the author regarding the danger of “borrowing someone else’s words and losing my own” since these facts and knowledge has little relevance if one does not understand them and apply them (Sommer 424). What struck me the most in the essay is when Sommer discusses modern writing in education, if it’s personal it is almost expected to be autobiographical, while academic writing strikes a cold factual tone. However, neither find the balance needed to find that ‘truth’ in writing, adding the personality of the individual and opinions combined with the intricate nature of factual research.
That is the primary theme which Sommer is attempting to highlight. That the skill of writing stems from the combination of personal ideas and experiences with knowledge gathered and interpreted over a lifetime. The amazing thing is that this can constantly change, providing new insights and perspectives. As Sommer notes, “The second sentence doesn’t contradict the one I read twenty years ago, but it means more today. I bring more to it, and I know that I can walk into the text after text, source after source, and they will give me insight” (424). Nevertheless, time and time again, Sommer highlights that writing is a messy process. One that takes time to develop, probably as our wisdom and experiences increase as individuals able to better comprehend the enormous amount of knowledge, both factual and perceptual that one carries. Even then, even the most talented writers have millions of ideas floating around, do not know where to start, and have trouble finding the right words to portray the intricate thoughts and emotions inside them. Most everyone has been in this situation, and according to Sommer, it is ok. After all, the essay by Emerson “Eloquence” which inspired her, was read in a completely messed up order than the one intended. The key was the expression and eloquence, the ideas which are behind the text.
Sommer shared her deep thoughts on writing in this article, articulating the origin of ideas, the nature of truth, and the writing process. This piece was quite personal and relatable for me, as I value writing but often get lost in the process as well as the rigid structures that are introduced by instructors. I seek to improve my writing, and this article has given me ideas on how to find the balance between facts and personal judgment, and where to draw inspiration.
Work Cited
Sommers, Nancy. “I Stand Here Writing.” College English, vol. 55, no. 4, 1993, pp. 420-428.