The Personal Element

Get it out of your system

Recollections about the essay form.

My earliest memories of writing an essay were in kindergarten, age 10-11. Topic: the carrier pigeon.

I loved the essay in high school. That's all I can remember. I was good at it during Dutch classes. I can't recall any topics anymore, shame.

At uni, we had to produce a number of essays on philosophical topics. I also loved doing those. With great results as I remember. Dream interpretation was one of them.

In my youth, I wanted to write about all topics. I always read a lot, so, in my opinion, I could write about anything. Once I started a romance story, but I didn't like it, it was not for me.

Now, it's still the same. I am an omnivore. I read and write anything.

My first diary was cut short by my little brother who read it. I was so angry I destroyed the journal and regretted it ever since. Never took up journaling again until 6 years ago at WdC. After someone anonymously gifted me with an upgraded membership and I started blogging. Have been at it ever since.

Note ▼

1. The Gentle art of the personal essay. Writing exercise: get it out of your system