Writing Process Task 2

Jaden Figueroa

Part 1

The readings discuss writer's block and limits, two opposing aspects of the writing process. Mike

Rose examines how limitations—like word counts or theme guidelines—can stimulate creativity

by pushing authors to think creatively under duress. The Oulipo movement, for instance, which

welcomes limitations to stimulate creative writing skills, is mentioned in the paragraph. The

notion that less restrictions encourage greater creativity may also be seen in other media, like

movies. Film experts may contend that because the makers of lower-budget films must think

outside the box in order to achieve their storytelling objectives, these lower-budget films are

more imaginative and compelling than their higher-budget counterparts. In contrast, the second

reading delves into the challenges of writer's block and how constraints hinder creativity. It

suggests that writing constraints and strict rules can contribute to “creative paralysis,” preventing

writers from writing what it is they choose to write. For example, if there’s a word limit on a

certain essay assignment, if a student wanted to write more to express themselves, they wouldn’t

be able to. Thus, they would have to result in limiting the thoughts and ideas they wish to write

on paper just to succumb to the word limit. Overall, both readings highlight the importance of

striking a balance between structure and freedom in the writing process. While constraints can

provide a framework for creativity, they must be approached with flexibility and openness to

experimentation. However, rigid rules and the pressure to adhere to them can contribute to

writer's block, stifling creativity. I think to have creative writing, you just need the best of both

worlds. Rules do provide basic structure to follow. However, too many writing rules could result

in an overall lack of creativity within writing.

Part 2

When creating my own first drafts, I struggled with the limitations I create within my head as to

how I should be writing. Over and over, I might delete a sentence just to rewrite in a way that my

brain believes is the best way to write it. In truth I know that this is not a very good writing trait

to have that I’m slowly working on changing. However, these articles revealed to me that it’s still

important to have a good mixture of both rules and no rules when it comes to writing. You need

to establish rules that’ll extend your writing process, not hinder it. For example, word counts can

flourish writing. If there’s a 300-word count to reach, it forces writers to think outside the box as

to how they can expand upon their writing. When they expand upon their writing, they’re getting

more out of their own thinking process. More ideas on paper that otherwise would’ve gone

unwritten. For my writing draft process now, I just go full throttle. I write whatever comes to my

mind and then structure it together after in post. For me I believe it’s important that I don’t set

too many limitations on writing repetition or sentence structure for when I’m writing my first

drafts. From now on, I say to just let the writing go and give it a revision after. That way all ideas

are on the table not forgotten.