Virtual Course in Proper Writing

Rabbi’s opening post

Virtual Course in Proper Writing

Posted on 5/11/2004

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Virtual Course in Proper Writing

Introduction:

Since several forum members have contacted me privately and asked how one can improve one’s ability to express oneself in writing,

and since, in my humble opinion, there are quite a number of writers on the forum who far surpass me in this area,

and since this can benefit those who ask, as well as the forum itself (for, as is well known, a deficiency in explanation reflects a deficiency in understanding),

I thought it would be beneficial to open a thread in which anyone who wishes to improve their writing ability may come and do so.

The proposal:

I suggest that anyone interested write something (preferably short. A long article is less likely to receive attention, and in any case: easiest things first; one should improve gradually), and specify the target audience (not necessarily online writing, since its characteristics are somewhat different): creative writing, journalistic writing, essay writing, and the like.

For those who find the public aspect difficult (even if it is behind a screen name), it is possible to specify that responses are wanted only by private message, although in my estimation this will reduce the likelihood of receiving replies. Readers are asked to be considerate.

Suggestions for the content and structure of the thread:

For each such passage, readers are invited to respond on two levels: both to the content (which is less important here, and therefore please briefly), and to the organization of the material and the linguistic expression, according to the writer’s own style.

That is, to edit it for language and style.

One may point out flaws, or compliment a fine idea relating to the form of the writing, and best of all: to send back the passage itself in a revised form, or rewritten entirely in a different way that, in the commenter’s view, is better.

Benefits:

This will benefit the writers, since they gain experience in public written expression, and they also receive feedback on their writing.

Requirements for the writers:

Before posting their passage, writers are asked to compose it on their own computer in an orderly file, after due thought, review it carefully—”and cleanse me from errors” (Psalms 19:13)—and only afterward post it to the forum thread.

Anyone who expects assistance is expected to make an initial effort on their own.

A call to the public:

The public, and especially those among us with writing ability, are called upon to lend a hand and assist anyone who is interested.

The forum is a good platform, and sometimes the only one, where some of us can experiment and improve in these matters.

Slogans:

And “one who prays for another is answered first” (Bava Kamma 92a)…

And “a bashful person does not learn” (Mishnah Avot 2:5)…

Blessing:

With the blessing, “May you be granted a learned tongue” (cf. Isaiah 50:4),

Signature:

The humble one

Source (the “Stop Here, Think” forum): http://www.bhol.co.il/forums/topic.asp?topic_id=1174552&forum_id=1364