What the Writers Might Say

Hey guys! I have to say I’m really enjoying They Say, I Say.  I am not familiar with this book and have never considered a “they say, I say” format to enhance my argument.  I do know, however, that this is a very intriguing way to organize a paper and does add to the credibility of the writer.  I appreciate that this book was written with a specific purpose in mind and the authors make this purpose clear to the reader.  In other words, the authors try to convince the reader that this style of writing is very beneficial by providing templates that can be incorporated for strong arguments.  In order to demonstrate this writing strategy, the authors consider the opinions of others.  After each point listed, the counterargument is addressed.  This tactic affirms the author’s credibility and answers any questions that the reader may have.  In turn, I think this book effectively demonstrates the point that the “they say, I say” strategy to writing is something any writer should consider.

            Keeping the ideas presented in the book in mind, there are two sides to every Writing Center appointment.  You have the dynamic of the tutor’s knowledge paired with the writer’s needs.  I think we’ve talked a lot in class about our role as a writing tutor.  We’ve discussed a lot about writing center theory, considered how to handle certain scenarios, and learned about the implications of working with ESL students.  However, we must also think about the needs and emotions of the writers that come in for appointments.  Thus, the “they say” aspect of the session needs thoughtful consideration. 

As Sarah recently blogged about, attitude and energy are everything when it comes to making the writer feel extremely comfortable.  No matter how our day may be going, we always have to have a positive and engaging attitude.  I think this is so important because many times writers are very nervous about having a session.  I know I get nervous sometimes if I’m unsure of how my paper seems to be progressing, and there’s certainly a level of anxiety that arises as a writer’s paper is read aloud.   

Furthermore, some writers may be uneasy about working with an advisor of the opposite gender.  I know this point was mentioned in class and I have to admit that I think it’s a legitimate concern; I have yet to work with a male advisor.  I don’t think it’s something that I will always shy away from, but I definitely feel more comfortable with a female advisor.

            Another concern a writer may have relates to their ideas being challenged and/or questioned.  If a writer is unsure about their ideas to begin with, or how thoroughly their ideas are presented in their work, then they may timidly respond to the tutor’s questions.  I know that it can be difficult for a writer to clearly and comfortably say their ideas in a one-on-one setting with a tutor that they may have just met.

            All in all, there are two sides to every situation.  In our case as future writing advisors, we relate to “I say.”  The writers that come into the center are the “they say.”  I know that we as tutors may have our own set of anxieties, but we cannot let that hinder our compassion for the writers.  They Say, I say may discuss an effective way to write a paper, but this does not limit its influence on us as tutors.  After all, our role as tutors will only be strengthened if we consider the viewpoints of those we are helping.