Drafting the Past
Episode 58: James Tejani Aims for Smart, Elegant Simplicity
Jan 28, 2025
Dr. James Tejani, an associate professor of history at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and author of "A Machine to Move Ocean and Earth," dives into his writing journey shaped by his immigrant background. He shares how feedback transformed his approach, emphasizing clarity in academia. Tejani discusses the complexities of U.S. westward expansion during the California Gold Rush, revealing personal ambitions intertwined with larger historical forces. He also reflects on the art of descriptive writing, merging history and personal experiences to create captivating narratives.
51:41
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Quick takeaways
- Dr. James Tejani's journey to becoming a writer illustrates how diverse backgrounds can shape one's narrative and identity in writing.
- His development of tendonitis led to a transformative shift in his writing practice, emphasizing the importance of clarity and simplicity in communication.
Deep dives
The Journey to Becoming a Writer
Dr. James Tijani reflects on his unexpected journey to becoming a writer, describing how he didn’t initially identify with the title despite being an academic historian. Growing up in an immigrant family where writing was not prevalent, he found writing to be a mysterious realm that intrigued him. It wasn't until he began taking history classes as a college student that he grasped writing as a creative and expressive tool, particularly in understanding his place in U.S. society. This newfound love for writing evolved through the act itself, demonstrating that writers can arise from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
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