I find it so interesting that I can write something I really like one day, but end up deleting it the next. Why? What makes me decide to delete material that delights me? Because I can't write beyond that material. That's an irrefutable sign that I have to delete it, no matter how much I love it. That's what I did today. Happily the new material I wrote worked--onward!! Hurrah!!!!
About Me
- Penny Colman
- I have published many articles, essays, a one-act play, stories, and books. In 2001, I started teaching at Teachers College, Columbia University. Since 2003, I have been a Distinguished Lecturer at Queens College, The City University of New York. I live and write in Englewood, New Jersey. I also write at my bungalow on a barrier island off the coast of New Jersey. In my free time you might find me reading in a library or archive; wandering through a museum or historic site; exploring cemeteries to find graves of historic people I write about; going to every type of bookstore, especially used bookstores; driving on long trips; taking long walks; listening to music, kayaking; doing puzzles and playing Scrabble; and thinking and talking about ideas.
2 comments:
HI, Penny,
Since I'm on vacation from school I have time to check your blog. I just read about how you had to delete what you had written the day before, even though it delighted you, but would have prevented you from going on from that point. I really love you sharing the writing process. I'm going to have to contemplate this point, as it's something I haven't had experienced myself in writing! Although I KNOW it is probably a ton of work, I'm glad you signed on again at Queens. You really need to share all your knowledge and expertise and pass it on! Happy mid-summer from Dot E.
Hi Dot,
What a treat to find your comment!
Thanks for posting it. Re material I end up deleting: I imagine I'm putting it in a file marked "Penny, you're brilliant BUT. . ."
Post a Comment