9/20/10

 I found the chapters we read the first night of class very interesting, and helpful in developing my writing. I think that the order of the chapters relates to how important each element of writing is, which would rationalize why transaction was the first chapter. After reading each chapter, transaction seems like the most significant element of writing, so it is fitting that the author decides to begin with this chapter. Although all of the elements listed are important to a piece of writing transaction defines the quality of the entire piece. I think every chapter covers specific things to remember when writing, but also gives examples of how the elements such as simplicity, style, unity and words can be used effectively to improve writing. Each chapter also supplies the reader with examples of writing that could benefit from employing these devices. I found the chapter on unity the most helpful, because I think that is the area which my writing lacks. I found it interesting that there are different types of unity in a piece of writing, such as unity of pronoun, mood and tense. Prior to reading this chapter I thought unity had to do with the overall flow of the story, but this chapter broke it down into several smaller pieces. I think this approach can help me improve my writing, because it offers several smaller aspects of writing to focus on. This makes it easier to understand what exactly to look for when building strong unity in a piece of writing.