Tuesday, January 5, 2010

AiD 1.5 or Chew small bites thoroughly

Adventures in Dissertating, Ep. 1.5

After my first diss. discussion meeting, some reflections to remember:

1. I can assume that my readers don't know a ton about the history of sermons or their history in American novels. Explain it; don't assume it.

2. Break things into pieces. If my introduction should be 10 pages (on the weird magic formating I use to trick myself), then 3 to Augustine, 3 to Burke, and 3 for American fiction might be useful.

3. If chewing into the introduction does not work right now, pull back and start in on one my novel chapters. If I do this, I would pick McCarthy or Updike.

4. Having a meeting forces a bit more writing.

Completing Augustine and transitioning to Burke, first draft style, in the next day or two.

2 comments:

  1. It's nice to see you up and about again. I've missed reading your words. Don't be a stranger.

    ~April

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  2. I am on the last legs of my dissertation and it has been, at times, quite hellish. Keep up the good work! :o)

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