RE: The debate that won't die (was RE: Remember secretaries? (was RE: Proof that content is more important than style))

[kcronin -at- daleen -dot- com]

Anita wrote:

> I disagree.  In my opinion, if one does not posses the ability to write
> well, one can be taught to write well, provided one has the ability to
> learn.  Therefore, the ability to write well CAN be imparted.  


To the depths of my soul, I disagree.

I'll give you this much: pretty much any student can be taught to write
*passably*. They can meet minimum educational requirements. But write
*well*? Sorry, not everybody.

I say that not out of snobbishness, but from experience. Writing *well* is
a skill as elusive as things like pitch-awareness or rhythm are in certain
people.

I once believed as you do, but have been proven wrong enough times that
I've changed my mind. And in the long run I'm thankful - it helps keep me
employable.

Think anybody can be taught to write well? Try teaching them.



Keith Cronin
____________________

writer: a parasite taking advantage of the literary weakness of others


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