mdj-learning upside down

Mr. Elbow seems to shake things up in a refreshing new way. I always applaud those which dare to think outside of the box which is why my first degree is in philosophy. I never thought so then, but now, I see how such thinking can make a difference and question the premises we have canonized in all disciplines.First, let me say of Mr. Elbow's approach, I whole-hearted agree with the need for flow in our writing. We think too much, we question and second guess the words we've written and never come to what we "really" want to say. I have made this analogies before: Music is the same as any language and any language is the same as music. I've studied piano for years and I know that simply knowing the mechanics, the mathematics, the function and science of music and any instrument, does not necessarily mean that one will articulate, with precision,a sensible and coherent melody. Flow remains the key. There exist in language, another operation beyond of that which we are conscious of, outside the rules and this is what we can only reach by way of flow. And flow means getting out of the war, all of the distraction that try to stifle you, the writer.

also, I must comment on Mr. Elbow's position on the organic nature of writing. I do believe that if we, as writers, view our pieces- in- progress as a means to some already expected end, then we fail. We must allow the synthesis to occur, not quite knowing where we are going, but knowing we are going somewhere. So far, I really like this Elbow guy.