(Note to Mods) Don't know where to post this particular thread...Maybe it belongs elsewhere?


Hi fellow ATSer's,
I realize my posts and my threads are looking all too subjective/opinionated.

Is there a kind soul or thrice maybe on here that can mentor me in ways to write more objectively? Maybe point me to some sites that teach proper techniques in writing objectively? Although ATS is rich within this site of the likes, I tend to run across things that get me off track.

I can copy and paste from articles as good as the next guy/gal, but when it comes to placing my best foot forward, I realize after the fact I posted something so heinous that my foot goes best when it's in my mouth

Believe it or not, writing for children is less challenging, well, writing fiction pieces anyway. Articles are my weakness. Can someone nice help me gain strength in writing objectively?

Not only will I be helped as a member here on ATS, but also in my course in Childrens Literature. One 'block' I almost encounter daily is writing something that to me seems close enough to stealing from an already written piece. I don't want my stuff stolen, so I make it a point not to steal other author's work.

Like when I get my assignments back from my instructor. She'll take my sentences and edit them, saying; maybe try this...Well, I can't try that because those are your words. See my dilemma? My query is based on EGO. I lack proper discipline, to be brutally honest.

I have some stories I'll post if asked to use as an example, in case anyone is interested. Ask me about "The Legend of Easter Bunny" it is one I didn't send in for editing. Inspired by a kid with a question about "Why does the Easter bunny hide eggs." Then ofcourse, that is a piece of fiction, subjectivity.

OK. All replies will be accepted with a grateful heart. Those not very nice will be considered constructive criticism, unless you really hurt my feelings. Then I just won't like you. Thanks in advance.

Maybe move this to Education & Media forum?

There is more appropriate maybe...

In my view, subjectivity encompasses the elements (or characters) that interact to form a drama. It reveals a central persona, a sort of essential idea of the consciousness of the author. It illustrates how the dance in this life works (at least as of now). It is, say, a quintessentially human system.

Objectivity, on the other hand, can describe the sequences of causes and effects in a subjective work. Objectivity can also break down and formulate a map of interacting details to describe the make up of certain characters or other elements within a drama. However, objectivity, or logic, always runs into the wall, so to speak. It can only describe the system. It cannot escape it.

In this world, we have subjectivity and objectivity dancing together. The subjective without integration (love?) of the objective always runs in circles. The objective without integration (love?) of the subjective always runs into a wall. Subjective (history?) always repeats itself. Objective (logic, reason, computation) always runs into a wall, freaks out when it hits the wall, and it crashes back into from whence it came (fall of civilizations?)

When the objective and subjective intertwine, it creates a spiral effect. If they seek to integrate and are open and honest with the other (love?), the spiral is that of an upward nature. If they hate each other, are repelled by the other, then they still align behind the scenes, creating a downward spiral effect.

I hope you can read between the lines, because these self-reflections are quite abstract, and they are very personal. I have given this a great deal of thought, honest questing of beliefs, meditation, etc., and this is a communication of how I see these two concepts, both individually and interwoven.

Edit: To directly answer your question, maybe try letting the objective and subjective dance together. You will explain yourself sufficiently to the teacher's desires, and you will also be true to your spirit. You are the creator of the work, after all.

[edit on 10-3-2010 by orwellianunenlightenment]

I should also add that maybe you should look at a few of your subjective works; then, try to see your objectives within them. When trying to be more objective, consider a wide range of subjective mentalities as well, and try to integrate these concepts. There is nothing purely objective or subjective. In my view, an "objective" piece of writing merely tries to describe a larger system, trying to integrate as many subjective mentalities as possible. It is trying to see it not just through your own eyes and ears and self, but through as many eyes and ears and selves as is possible for you. You then, through reason and logic, explain this system which you have perceived.

Originally posted by jjjtir
Maybe move this to Education & Media forum?

There is more appropriate maybe...

I considered that but I won't be linking any media. Thank you though,

I think LordBucket said it pretty well.

Just want to add:

There is a fine line between showing conviction in your assertions while maintaining objectivity, and writing too subjectively about your own views. No one's writing is perfect and there are areas we can all improve in. Just practice as often as you can and try to word your sentences so that they make no definitive statements. Also, imply (not necessarily write it out) through your writing that input with substance from others is welcome and you are willing to admit you might be wrong.

[edit on 10/3/2010 by Dark Ghost]