thespeakingbox

[thespeakingbox]

Blog Post 10: A Visual Journey

"The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any." -Alice Walker

This blog post introduces my Video Essay and what it means to me.

Writing has always been my haven, a place to reconnect with myself, explore my identity, and bridge the gap between my identity and my dreams.

The starting point for my lyric essay was a semester-long project. However, it flourished into something more than just another assignment. I'm excited to present its evolution today in a video essay. This visual adaptation invites you to experience the intimate writing process, feeling the power of words, the rhythm of history, and the pain of unfulfilled dreams. Through this project, I aimed to reflect on my experiences and offer my readers a window into my world. The video essay covers my high points and low points, including my inability to create a virtual creative writing club. It also demonstrates the strength of language and the influence of storytelling. My Video Essay encourages you to pause, reflect, and find peace within words. This video marks the start of something bigger—a launchpad for new collaborations, projects, and reignited dreams. It might just be the spark I needed to make a virtual creative writing club a reality.

For now, I'm grateful to be sharing this moment with you. You can watch by clicking below. I'm eager to hear what you think.

Peace and Blessings!

The Speaking Box

Sources

GIFs provided by Tumblr Stock

Planetgiffferr

Ellieheim

Video provided by YouTube

The Speaking Box. Dec 2024. https://youtu.be/0iejtA_tAKQ?si=zWLVy2SIivUUMilh

Quote provided by Alice Walker. 1982.

[thespeakingbox]

Blog Post 9: A Lyric Essay in Progress

I'm focusing on my reflections after a peer feedback workshop for this blog post.

My Lyric Essay started as a rough draft, a jumble of fragmented thoughts, vivid scenes, and raw emotions. The path was uncertain, but my goal was to create a link between my private thoughts and my public persona.

I started with the outline, printed each section separately, similar to the Google Maps essay, and spread the pages across the floor. Like piecing together a puzzle, I was exploring how each part resonated with the other. I then concentrated on the language, emphasizing specific phrases by extending them and streamlining others.

Sharing drafts with my CNF classmates was invaluable. Someone pointed out a missing visual element that I hadn't noticed, and it became the primary focus. Someone advised me to incorporate more sensory details to create a stronger sense of place in my changing worlds.

Revision Insights

While revising this essay, I realized that writing is as much about finding new ideas as it is about communicating them. As I stitched together the pieces, I gained a new understanding of the essay and the questions it raised.

A Tip for Revising Lyric Essays

Accept uncertainty, but listen to your gut when something feels unfinished. Since rhythm is crucial to lyric essays, read yours aloud to understand its flow. Experiment with moving sections to discover new relationships.

Click This Link for More Information on Tips for Reviewing Lyric Essays.

Until Next Time!

Peace and Blessings!

-The Speaking Box

Sources:

Glatch, Sean. 2023. Writing Without Limits: Understanding The Lyric Essay. February 28, 2023. The Lyric Essay: Examples and Writing Techniques. https://writers.com/lyric-essay

GIFs provided by Tumblr Stock:

by bwurnt

by max-lipschitz

by Karahalloway

by halfboiled

by mymojosodopeme1

by sjf-penguin

[thespeakingbox]

Blog Post 8: The Power of Virtual Writing Spaces

This blog post focuses on additional research for my project: Joining/Establishing a Virtual Creative Writing Club.

Additional research for my project included the benefits of having Peer-to-peer writing spaces. For example, benefits such as:

Community building, which in online spaces involves fostering connections and creating a sense of belonging.

Learning new technological tools for Virtual Writing, which enhances digital literacy.

Leadership skill building, which assists in acquiring the necessary tools and techniques to lead and motivate a team.

Students' active engagement and well-being, which support them in thriving academically.

Let’s discuss these benefits more.

According to an article on Galileo by Craig Batty and Jennifer Sinclair, peer-to-peer learning encourages collaborative learning and independent skill building. The article highlights studies conducted by Buissink-Smith et al. (2013), which show results that suggest candidates in peer-to-peer groups are more likely to complete their degree and do so within the expected timeframe. The article also highlights researchers, including Kiley (2009) and Denholm and Evans (2006), who have observed advantages for candidates, such as increased progress and assistance in the publishing process. (Batty, C. and Sinclair, J., 2014)

According to these studies, peer-to-peer groups can be implemented in many ways, with or without a supervisor/facilitator, cutting across disciplinary boundaries or confined within disciplinary clusters. However, few of these studies have yet to emphasize the benefits a facilitator can acquire and how it can elevate their leadership approach while guiding such a group. (Batty, C. and Sinclair, J., 2014)

Click here to learn more about PEER-TO-PEER LEARNING.

I decided to highlight student engagement and well-being for this post to go more in-depth on a personal level.

This is one of the safest spaces I have right now. Here goes nothing….

Sometimes, I feel like people don’t understand the weight writers carry. For example, writing requires a lot of mental capacity, and if my mental capacity has already reached its limits with work, home, schoolwork, and grief, where do I get the strength to keep pushing through and forming these words?

Being around or engaging with my writing peers distracts me from reality and gives my brain time to calm down and reset.

For instance, my brain sometimes feels like a radiator that is running hot because of low antifreeze levels. Other times, it seems as though I have antifreeze, but my head gasket has blown. Both times, I found that escaping to Tumblr to read each of your blog posts helps me mentally in ways you guys wouldn’t even know. I appreciate your posts, especially the Personal History Collages.

Until Next Time!

Peace and Blessings!

-The Speaking Box

References:

Gifs provided by Tumblr Stock:

GIF by cieuxgris, GIF by intentandoseringeniero, and GIF by roseillith

Peer-to-Peer Studies Article:  

Batty, Craig, and Jennifer Sinclair. “Peer-to-Peer Learning in the Higher Degree by Research Context: A Creative Writing Case Study.” New Writing: The International Journal for the Practice & Theory of Creative Writing, vol. 11, no. 3, Nov. 2014, pp. 335–46. EBSCOhost, https://doi.org/10.1080/14790726.2014.932814.

[thespeakingbox]

Blog Post 7: Google Maps Essay

This blog post focuses on the Google Map Essay Assignment:

Within the Google Maps Essay, Born of Clay, Bound by Elements, I skillfully combine personal reflections on feelings of inadequacy with a heartfelt tribute to significant historical sites, including the Martin Luther King Jr. memorial and the birthplace of Alice Walker.

After almost pulling my hair out! I enjoyed completing this assignment. I look forward to reading everyone's Google Maps Essays!

Until Next Time!

Peace and Blessings!

-The Speaking Box

[thespeakingbox]

Blog Post 6: Pieces of Me

This blog post focuses on my Personal History Collage:

This photo collage captures the essence of my identity—a proud Black woman deeply rooted in the vibrant tapestry of Black culture and Spirituality.

Each image is a snapshot that unravels a chapter of my life's narrative, unfolding the vibrant and multi-faceted era of the 80s and my present as a single woman forging her own unique destiny. My beliefs are visible. My commitment to sustainability and recycling reflects my desire for a healthier planet. At the same time, my alignment with Democratic values speaks to my hope for a more inclusive and just society. But above all, I want to stress that creativity is not just a part of my life. It's a superpower that shapes how I see and express myself within the world. This collage is more than a collection of pictures—it's a visual narrative of my passions, beliefs, and unique journey. It's none other than me.

Until Next Time!

Peace and Blessings!

The Speaking Box.

[thespeakingbox]

Blog Post 5: Building Bridges

Hello everyone,

This blog post considers the difficulties/challenges and/or progress that you have made on your project so far:

I typed the assignment instructions, hoping it would motivate me to find the words to say... The last two weeks have been challenging as I have struggled to find the proper balance between:

Home

School

Work

My business

My semester project

My plate is FULL!

The only progress I made this week was researching the deadline for the RESET workshops, which is necessary to start an organization.

I face several obstacles in my life, including challenges related to my difficulties with maintaining social energy, and, most importantly, struggles with managing my time effectively. On numerous occasions, I have found myself unintentionally falling asleep while attempting to concentrate on reading materials. Although my mind is fatigued, I have a solid resolve to push through and complete what I started.

I intend to email my classmates soon to broaden my search for five classmates interested in a virtual writing club. It has come to my attention that one of my classmates has expressed interest in a virtual writing club. All it takes is three more classmates to express interest, and we can make it happen.

I'm trying to break free from my introverted/anti-social shell.

Until next time!

Peace and Blessings!!

The Speaking Box

[thespeakingbox]

Blog Post 4: Research

Hey there, everyone.

This blog post is an exciting journey into the in-depth research I conducted for my project on launching a Virtual Creative Writing Club. I can't wait to share it with you all.

As a passionate, creative writing student, I'm driven by the vision of creating an online community that not only nurtures creativity and fosters connections but also facilitates personal growth. The potential impact of this virtual writing club at my university is truly inspiring.

I have acquired invaluable knowledge and understanding through this process by diligently following these key steps:

1. I RESEARCHED EXISTING CLUBS ON THE UNIVERSITY’S ORGANIZATIONS PAGE

Understanding the existing landscape was the initial and crucial step in the process. I kicked off my search by delving into the clubs already present at my university, gathering information and insights. Were there any writing clubs or organizations that met either in-person or virtually, where writers could connect and share their work? The findings of this research shed light on possible gaps that exist within the current offerings. Moreover, I contacted my professor for guidance on establishing a new club.

2. I DEFINED THE VIRTUAL WRITING CLUB’S PURPOSE AND GOALS

A clear vision for the club was essential, something that would drive our goals and shape our future. The unique aspect of a virtual writing club lies in the diverse range of perspectives and writing styles that members bring, creating a rich and dynamic community. I want to design a space that allows students to come together for collaborative writing sessions, workshops, and feedback circles, all conveniently accessible through an online platform. I also want the club to be a platform for writers across genres, embracing fiction, poetry, personal essays, and academic writing. With a clear purpose, I can effectively pitch the idea to the university and potential members.

3. I FOCUSED ON CHOOSING THE RIGHT PLATFORM

Selecting the right platform was crucial since this club would be entirely online. After researching various options, I considered a mix of video conferencing tools like Zoom or Google Meet for real-time workshops and writing sessions and Slack or Discord for continuous discussions, sharing resources, and offering critiques. Each platform had to align with our ease, engagement, and inclusivity goals.

4. MY NEXT STEP IS TO BUILD A TEAM

(THE STRONG 5)

Forming a core team ensures we have diverse perspectives and talents. We can brainstorm the club’s structure, including event formats, membership requirements, and outreach strategies. The collaboration will make the process smoother and more creative.

(4 MORE TO GO!)

UNTIL NEXT TIME!

PEACE AND BLESSINGS!

The Speaking Box

[thespeakingbox]

Blog Post 3: Challenges

For this blog post, I’ll describe the challenges and obstacles I may encounter as I work on my project, such as the process of establishing a virtual writing club through the university, my time management, the lack of clarity on whether I'm establishing a virtual writing club or just simply joining one to be an active member. I will also acknowledge the successes I have experienced so far. For instance, Byrdology has been tremendously resourceful in helping me understand how to establish a virtual writing club through the university.

I’M OFF TO A GOOD START, RIGHT?

Despite my progress, I can't shake this feeling of being behind. It's a bit disorienting.

As I reflect on my project, I find myself in a whirlwind. Joining a virtual writing club on campus would have simplified the process, but I’m excited about the endeavor. My main concern is finding the time to attend the Reset Workshop and connect with at least five Clayton State students who share my interests. These activities are crucial for the club's success, but I wonder if it would leave me limited time to recruit members and be actively involved. Thus, it made me feel as if I needed to change my topic. Maybe I should just learn to cook and be done with it.

On second thought, if you're interested in a Virtual Creative Writing club, show your support by liking this post!

Until next time, Peace and Blessings!

The Speaking Box

[thespeakingbox]

Are You Ready Twin?

Hello everyone,

In this blog post, I'm excited to share my project and its profound importance to me.

Can I get a drumroll, please?

As I document my journey, I've made the decision to either join a vibrant virtual writing club or establish a dynamic virtual Creative Writing Club this semester, where interaction is key.

This is important to me because, as a writer, sometimes my brain gets a little foggy, causing my words to blur. I hope that joining a writing community will keep my thoughts refreshed and in a non-stressful environment. I know I’m not the only writer pulling my hair out sometimes…

I believe that the feedback sessions and flash nonfiction workshops in the writing community will be instrumental in keeping our creative juices flowing.

For instance, each member will receive a Creative nonfiction prompt and action word once a week to compose a short story of 50-150 words.

For example:

Writing Prompt: Write about a day in the life of someone who lost the ability to recognize faces, specifically the love of their life. Describe the emotional and psychological impact of navigating when the love of your life’s face is a mystery.

Action: Spill coffee during a tense or emotional moment.

I’ll go first:

Panic filled her chest as she stared at her daughter's blank and unfamiliar face. Her coffee spilled, burning her skin as the pain was a sharp reminder of the nightmare she couldn’t wake up from. She could still feel pain, but her faces were gone. Yet, the love, the connection, and the bond could never be severed.

TRY IT OUT!

Peace and Blessings!!

[thespeakingbox]

Blog 1: Introducing The Speaking Box!

Hello everyone,

I’m The Speaking Box, a writer from Atlanta, GA. Writing is not just a hobby for me; it's a passion. I'm studying English and have published my debut novel in the Summer of 2023. I love to write in various genres, including Romance, Rom-Com, and erotica, and I’m always open to exploring new ones like Sci-Fi and Horror.

When I'm not writing, I'm all about new experiences. I'm a massive fan of live music, especially R&B/Soul, Hip-Hop, Gospel, and pop. I love the energy of concerts and the vibe of lounges with live bands. I'm always up for a good time.

I'm thrilled to delve into Adv Creative Nonfiction. For this semester's project, I chose to become an active member of a student organization on campus. I would like to focus on a virtual creative writing club.

I look forward to learning more about writing and getting to know each of you this semester. I wish you all the best in this class and in your future endeavors!

Peace and Blessings!

The Speaking Box