Chapter 2, concept 2.1 & Chapter 14, pg 372

This reading got me excited to write on things that are truly interesting to me and my audience. I really liked how well the text explained how to "wallow in complexity" and now I understand how important it is to take that step and really analyze every aspect of a question. I learned that the starting point for a writer is a "good, interesting question." I understand now that my audience is not necessarily looking for a right answer. They are looking to be engaged and exposed to well-supported, alternate views.

The text mentions six skills to be able to wallow in complexity that I would like to implement in my writing process. The first is to be able to prose problematic questions. Second, the ability to analyze all dimensions of a problem. This means to be able to consider all the different views and realize the good and bad in all sides including your own. Third, the ability to gather research and information that is relevant to the issue. Fourth, imagine alternative solutions and perspectives. Fifth, the ability to analyze opposing opinions and construct arguments for and against them, and then choose the best solution. The last skill required to wallow in complexity is the ability to effectively argue while considering opposing sides.

I also learned a lot about the writing process. There were different strategies explained for your writing process and how to use them to brainstorm. I really like the ideas suggested and I want to try two of them specifically. I think that free-writing and dialectic conversation will be the most effective strategies for me personally. Free-writing is where you simply let your thoughts flow onto the paper. It is totally unorganized but it is very effective to get the creative process started. Dialectic conversation is talking about the subject or topic your are interested in writing about in a civil way and exploring different views. It is important to keep an open mind and consider all of the strengths and weaknesses for each perspective. I think this strategy will really help me develop a valid opinion of my own.