In this essay, E. Shelly Reid gives 10 examples and metaphors about unconventional ways of writing.
Rule number one is sectioned into three parts: Write about what you know about, are curious about, and are passionate about (or what you can find a way to be curious about or interested in). Show you know what you’re talking about (authority); don’t just tell. Adapt to the audience and purpose you’re writing for so they get your point.
2. Show that you know what you mean, which is like part of rule one. The author emphasizes the example of show and tell.
3. Give specific details. The writer won’t know what something looks like if you don’t explain it; they’ll just be using their imagination.
4. Know your audience and how to adapt. Know who you’re talking to, to really get engagement and understanding. I.e., talking to your mom is different from talking to your best friend.
5. Don’t lose the audience along the way. Keep them engaged the whole time.
6. Theories and arguments MUST have evidence.
7. There is some variance in paragraph lengths. Reid states it’s, “not one size fits all.”
8. Annotate
9. Time your writing, as you may not always have a lot of time
10. Ditch the 5 paragraph essay rule and allow yourself to grow.
My favorite metaphor she used to explain each of these concepts was the one about laundry. You put a different load of laundry in the washer every time. Sometimes it might be 10 pieces of clothing, and other times it might be 30. She used this to explain paragraph lengths (number 7). We’re always told that a paragraph is always 4–7 sentences, and anything beyond that is too short or long. But she pushes freedom in writing and rhetorical thinking.
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