numba 4

I would love to say that when interpreting a piece of writing I interpret as I see; however this is not the case. I tried doing this in 10th grade and was told that all my interpretations were flat out wrong. When I would present an unusual idea to the class, something that made sense to me, my teacher would simply say, “Well, okay, but that isn’t what the author was saying.” Unfortunately, all throughout high school I wrote for the teacher. I know knowledge is more important than grade, but so many see grades as a reflection of what you know, so I was hesitant to turn in anything my teachers might not agree with. In an ideal world students would be praised for their unique interpretation, however, it is deemed necessary to turn students’ work into a letter: A, B, etc. Writing is an art form that effects all people differently and should be approached as such.
I don’t usually share my opinion in class, unless I’m extremely passionate about the subject. It’s not so much that I’m scared of being wrong as it is that I’m very shy. I guess you could say that shyness comes from a fear of being received in an unfavorable way, which would be giving a wrong answer in this instance. Also, I usually don’t feel I have anything new to contribute. By the time I figure out what I want to say someone else has already said it.
I don’t write in the margins, but I’m going to start. Teague makes an excellent point when she talks about how high school taught us to keep our books in pristine condition. I’m still trying to get out of that mindset. I guess it’s been so ingrained in me that I actually think writing in books is disrespectful, a punch in the author’s face. This obviously isn’t true. once you purchase the book your side of the deal is complete. I don’t know. I do re-read though!
So, that’s good, right?