Lewis' Book of Reviews and Writing Advice

How are you ~The Affects of Being a Writer #2

Greetings, Ink jars, Professor Lewis here! Today, as last session, I shall be discussing a topic which may be interesting to you.  

When I go through experiences, big or small I like to write them down. When I have a tough week, I can put it best into words on paper as opposed to with my mouth. This is the blessing of being a writer, but also a curse at times. I have been in a very contemplative mood recently and therefore came up with an intriguing thought which I have considered before, but never put on paper. This idea interested be so much, I wanted to share it, and who better to share it with than my precious Ink Jars? It has been written on many times before, but I feel there is always a new way to write it for new people.  

                                                                     How Are You

                                                                       Lewis E.P.

How are you? These three words are so common. I actually strongly dislike the usage of these words in their normal context. Allow me to stress the end of that statement "in their normal text." How are you? is generally used as a polite and society approved greeting. If this is said to you, you simply reply: "Good, how are you?" To which, they reply in the same way. Every once in a while, you may receive a mild suggestion of sadness or frustration from this person, but when this happens, you most likely remove yourself from the conversation. This is why I hate these three words in their "normal context."

Now, I have stressed the words normal context, implying that this hatred does not apply at all times to all situations. I actually love the sentence "How are you?" The only time I dislike it is when it is a formality, spoken without true interest in the questioned person's welfare. These words were created to enable people to inquire as to others' needs! What would happen if we used them as such? What would happen if we meant it every time we said it? Some people may hear the adamancy in your tone and explain their life to you. Sometimes, all people need is that question and are relieved to tell you!

 I've lost a family member recently. Through this experience, I am able to compare "How are you?" to "How are you?" People are earnest when they say these words to me now, which, opens me up to say how I may be feeling at the current moment. It is so encouraging to know people care. In addition to this I am apart of a very close-knit friend circle. We all rely on each other heavily at times. Through this group I have continued to learn the importance of how you say words. Do not say things because that is what you do, say words because that is what you mean! Consider the meanings of such statements and reevaluate if necessary.

In conclusion, I stress the idea of actually meaning the words you say. Every person on this earth has a different life-story; they have different goals and plans; they hold varying values and dreams! Be aware of this. What would you want to tell someone if they were genuinely interested in what you are struggling with? Would not this world be better? So I ask you in parting, how are you?

~The end of Essay~

So, to apply this in writing terms, I'm going to bring up one of my favorite subjects "Character Development." I've probably said it before, but one thing that writing a book and creating characters shows you, is how amazing and intricately woven a person's personality and thought-process is. I for one am quite calculated (or so I like to believe). I over think and analyze so much--possibly too much! On the outside though, I do not think people see me that way. I have certain moral beliefs and standpoints which I represent and follow. I have fears and hopes. When you're building a character, you have to create this! Because of how I've studied this system, I've grown to respect the human mind. It has helped me to see people differently. When you're going about your normal life, Ink Jars, look around you! Study people! Treat them like characters--like very interesting, well developed and interesting characters!

I hope you do not all mind my ramblings, Ink Jars, but I found this subject intriguing and thought I'd lay it before you all. Let me know what your thoughts are on the subject.

Your faithful Writer, Professor Lewis