The Serial Writings of Robin Jansen*Musings of a Paperback Writer: 1/18/09

Thursday, January 22, 2009

THANK YOU TEXAS STATE LEGISLATURE!

Thank you Texas Legislature! I received a commendation from the Texas State Legislature with an official state seal, recognizing my recent book publications. Included is recognition of my work with troubled teens in the juvenile justice system. It is a really neat long, formal document. Impressive. Gee, for me? No, its not framed and on the wall. It's still inside the folder it arrived in, and slipped between books on my shelf. But how cool is that?

What is a Narrative?

Look at any New York Best Seller list and you are bound to see several narrative essays. What makes it stand out from other genres is the way it is author crafted. A narration...
1. ...uses dialogue sparingly. The voice of a narrative is like a friend recounting his/her experience through a conversational tone.
2. ... is a piece of writing that recreates an experience through time.
3. ...can be based on one of your own experiences, either past or present, or it can be based on the experiences of someone else.
4. ...contains impressions and thoughts.
5. ..uses metaphors but most importantly, uses language with a wide breadth of sensory detail.
6. ...written in first person. "I" invites the reader into the narrative's world.

Shooting Darts, Not Stars

It started in the fifth grade when my composition teacher didn't read my essay outloud to the class. Ten years old at the time, I thought this stunk like the kid who sat behind me, but I took it along with a pinch of determination. Since then I have devoted my life to writing; and more than just grocery lists.

Each week I am adding to my online narrative which is a compilation of different people I have known during my life journey. Every event you read is true. It may, or may not, have happened personally to me. But it happened to someone I know. The chapters are pieces of actual experiences.

Each week I stare at the computer screen typing honest words that will reach across the miles to your computer screen in hopes you will come back to read more.

I love to write. I hate rejection. This narrative is coming to life inside my brain, tapping me on the shoulder, asking to be told. Not only do I want it to entertain you but I am hoping it connects with you in some way. It changes me.

Hand in hand, you are walking with me this summer through my tale and for that I bless you and thank you with my whole heart ( I think we are walking together on a beach).

and here is to you, Ms. Eckert.