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Open readings offer writers a place to try out new work, find an audience and maybe even get an invitation to be a featured reader. Readings or performances are an important part of creative writing. Most open readings are polite and pleasant. For this exercise, you have two objectives: participate and reflect on what you participated in, so you can continue and develop the oral aspect of your writing.
First, give a sense of the reading space. Details such as stage size and location, sound system, lighting and other activities in the room can shape a reading. Sherman Alexie says that the work he performs changes depending on where he reads and who happens to be in the room, so notice how many people attend.
Second, give a sense of how the reading flowed. For instance, notice how formal or informal the introductions are. If the MC has policies, explain what they were.
Third, comment on the your presentation. What strategy did you have in mind and how did it develop at this reading? After describing your presentation, consider its reception.
Finally, consider what revisions you would make in the future. These changes could be to the text or to the order of reading or the type of venue. Sometimes the pacing or styles at a reading will affect the way a work is perceived.
Any nervousness is a good thing that means you take your work seriously, but don't be so serious that you silence your work. People go to readings because they want to hear what you have to say.
Length: two typed double-spaced pages (500 words) maximum.
Due: Before or on April 29 at 2:29 p.m.
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This page last revised
01/21/09