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Subject:Re: The "Too Familiar" problem From:Bruce Byfield <bbyfield -at- axionet -dot- com> To:"TECHWR-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- raycomm -dot- com> Date:Mon, 13 Nov 2000 09:39:07 -0800
David Downing wrote:
> Well, I'm finding writers can end up in the same boat. I have to write some
> very general introductory material for some software I've been documenting
> at a detailed level, and I'm having trouble looking at it from the outside.
> Anyone having any thoughts, point of view, etc., on how to handle this?
> Thanks
Sometimes, a visualization exercise is useful. For example, imagine
yourself on a stage. Each time you write in a different mode,
imagine yourself exiting then coming into the lights in a different
costume.
If that doesn't suit your temperment, try imagining different
audiences sitting in front of you.
You can also try writing without reference to any existing material,
or limiting the length at which you write.
If all else fails, wait until 12 hours before deadline. I guarantee
you'll have no trouble then. :-)
--
Bruce Byfield, Outlaw Communications
Contributing Editor, Maximum Linux
604.421.7189 bbyfield -at- axionet -dot- com
"Rugen: Are you still trying to win?
Inigo: Hello. My name is Inigo de Montoya. You killed my father.
Prepare to die."
-William Goldman, screenplay for "The Princess Bride"
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