This week in class we discussed open letters and the different types of uses. We then all read a few open letters from the book “Letters to a Young Writer” by Colum McCann. This book contained letters giving advice to writers. As an activity in class we each shared a few excerpts in class and takeaway from the letter. While McCann was able to write dozens of different and unique letters, a lot of the themes are very similar. Things such as thinking outside of the box, write with your voice and personality, don’t give up, etc. While I definitely learned a few lessons from this activity, I was more fascinated about his skills as an author to be able to write that many open letters.
We then spoke about illustrated letters and other entertaining forms. I enjoyed this lesson as it showed me how much thought goes into creating letters like these. It takes a lot of skill to draw what you want on a letter, in some cases in the middle of the paper, and still be able to write your letter around it and fit it on the page. I’m excited to be able to present my final presentation soon and be able to relax on Thanksgiving break.