Personal Evaluation
What are my current weaknesses as a writer?
I have always struggled with editing my poetic works as I find with short form it is often difficult to edit in a way that does not change my original intentions as a writer. However, I hope that when dealing with this dramatic monologue I will be able to edit efficiently. As well as editing; I have always struggled with consistency an competition of my work within an appropriate time frame. Therefore, when conducting this project I will ensure I keep to a schedule which takes into account my other responsibilities and commitments.
Why did I choose this project?
I have never been scared to write short form and have considered myself a poet for around 10 years. However, I have recently made the decision to explore other mediums including the art of script writing. I first explored this medium last year when I wrote "Accidental Death of An Activist" which is a rewrite of "Accidental death of an Anarchist" by Dario Fo. Whilst using the same basic plot and character types as Fo’s original text, I recontextualised these elements to focus upon the injustice the BAME community is subjected to at the hands of the Metropolitan police. Through the use of real-life police cases and figures throughout my play, each individual character was intended to act as a satirical caricature of systemic racism in contemporary Britain. After the success of this play touring at Nottingham Playhouse and NNT (Nottingham New Theatre) and my recent fascination with "Prima Facie by Suzie Miller ,I decided I wanted to tackle the complex task of dramatic monologues.
What are my current strengths as a writer?
My ability to write from the heart and speak freely about subjects that matter. I also ensure that everything I am looking to write is properly researched about if I feel like as the author I don't have enough credible information or experience. For example, with this project I aim to look into the reality of alcohol addiction and the 7 stages of grief.
What area of my writing do I need to work on?
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Time management
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Grammar
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Editing
How is this process going to help my writing?
It will help me with characterisation and allow me to use my previous experience in poetry to tell a story that blurs the lines between reality and symbolism.