Blog Post 1 - Meaghan Russell

Alongside a smattering of research for creative writing, as Mike discussed, I will be undertaking some formal inquiries for my literature class this semester.

In the past, I have begun critical essays (research-based and otherwise) by asking genuine questions, i.e., open-ended and inspired by true curiosity. I have not begun with a topic, though a topic is present in the final focus question I develop, the question I eventually endeavor to answer in the form of a thesis. I usually begin with seemingly relevant bits from the primary text or texts (my focus of critical study), write some questions, consult criticism on JSTOR or a similar database, narrow my focus question(s), return to the text(s), and repeat this process as I write and refine my focus question. At some point, I formulate a tentative answer. I organize related information (text from the novel/play/poem in question, critical sources, etc.) in a rough outline with supporting points. My real thesis does not usually emerge until I reach my first draft’s conclusion. The research and writing process is recursive, so difficult to tease out. I spend a lot of time rereading. Like Robert, I follow tangents and, in theory, do not regret this habit.

For the research-based essay I will write this semester, my literature professor has suggested I read a few particular articles that represent scholarship to-date on Victoria Cross, the author whose writing will be my focus. Some of the primary material I want to read may be out of print and difficult to find, in which case I will make use of ILL. After I have read more of Cross’s writing, I will try to figure out what kinds of questions have been explored by critics.