Discovering Discovery

The Apalachicola Estuary that Verle Barnes discovered certainly provided that emotional shot in the arm to him and his writing. The man seemingly devoted a large majority of his existence to this small island for the sake of discovery. This uninhabited little island and its living species were fortunate that Barnes found it because of all of the careful attention it was given by such conscientious people searching for inspiration. I am sure that many of his students did not share the same vision of Apalachicola, but I will assume they came away from the experience respectful of his enthusiasm and passion for a subject. As writers don’t we all hope to find a place or thing like Barnes did? I for one answer with a resounding YES!! As a student who plugs away at assignments and life I feel a little disappointed that I cannot think of too many instances that have wowed me. Maybe it will present itself when I least expect it or possibly at the most inopportune time?

I agree with Graves that discipline grows out of freedom, and not vice versa. The point is much like our human maturation process; where children that are sheltered or forced to follow the strict discipline of their parents never get to experience the pleasures of youth through discovery (hopefully they can at least discover the library). The trial and error process of freedom allows to us grow and understand acquired discipline, which is far more beneficial than coerced discipline. Our lives and our writing must experience the highs and lows, the drafts and re-drafts, the praise, and the criticism in order to produce well-rounded and accomplished writing.