The Joy of Editing
Tonight, I looked at my planner and I realized that I only had a take-home Calculus exam. So, after a good hour of relaxing (I used the time to catch up on last week’s 30 Rock and to call my Senator regarding Fair Elections Now Act) I shuffled to my computer to write my Common Application essay – edit number 9. Though most applications are not due until January 1st or January 15th, I am applying to a school Single Choice Early Action, so all my materials need to be in by November 1st.
I think, for me, what helps the most in editing and rewriting is physically, handwriting the entire paper again, with the changes. That way, I see the flow and am more concious of word choice. I’ve probably already spent 16 hours on ONE essay. I’m determined to make it the best I can. I have been so aggravated – I literally yelled at my parents in an editing session last weekend (not a smart move).
But after editing today, I had such an amazing satisfaction finishing the most recent draft. Knowing that I have crafted each sentence and analyzed its structure really gives a satisfaction that doesn’t come from writing a forty minute DBQ. And now come all the supplementals (as well as about four more edits of this draft…)
September 27, 2010
Laura Eleanor
I’ve recently become more interested in a former passion of mine; the chimpanzee research conducted by Jane Goodall. I was devastated to hear the my favorite Gombe chimp, Gaia, lost her twin baby chimps. Also, I want to tread lightly on this earth and not inflict pain upon others. By this, I mean that I will not buy sweat-shop clothing, and support American trade and production. Jane is such an amazing person. You should really learn about her and her heart-felt work. Maybe someday I’ll write a biography of her or a history of chimpanzee research… She’s inspiring and faithful. Her faith is awe-ful and reviving to me. I think it is documented in the book Reason for Hope.
