Creative Writing and Reading in English: An Interview with Aleksandra Aubay
Dec 6, 2023
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English teacher Aleksandra Aubay discusses the importance of writing about what she loves, challenges the need for big words in impactful prose, and shares book recommendations. She also explores creativity within constraints, getting creative with basic vocabulary, and the transformational power of running in her personal growth journey.
Reading and writing in a non-native language can be a rewarding experience, and success in writing should not be solely defined by the number of books read.
Expanding vocabulary is not the only way to improve writing skills; choosing the right words to evoke emotions in readers is equally important.
Embracing authenticity and writing from one's true self creates relatable and resonating work, connecting on a deeper level with readers.
Deep dives
Passion for Reading and Writing in English as a Second Language
Alexandra Obey, an English teacher and avid reader, discusses her passion for reading and writing in English as her second language. She shares her experiences on her blog, writing about the challenges and benefits of writing in a non-native language. Alexandra emphasizes that the number of books read does not define success and encourages readers to focus on their own reading journeys. She also explains how she finds time to read by limiting social media usage and utilizing audiobooks and Kindle. Alexandra highlights the importance of building a reading zone and creating a sense of home through books. She believes that reading and writing are perfect forms of 'me time' and a way to connect with oneself and explore emotions.
Becoming a Better Writer Through Reading
Alexandra discusses the importance of reading for improving writing skills. She shares examples of how authors use simple words and create vivid imagery to convey powerful messages. Alexandra believes that expanding vocabulary is not the only way to become a better writer. She emphasizes the significance of choosing the right words to evoke emotions in readers. Alexandra mentions her preference for writing creatively and decorating her texts with figurative language to make them more vibrant and enticing. She also advises new writers to focus on their readers' feelings, learn from established authors like Stephen King, and experiment with their own writing styles.
Authenticity in Writing and Overcoming Self-doubt
Alexandra encourages writers to embrace their authenticity and write from their truest selves. She shares her personal journey of overcoming self-doubt and pursuing her passion for writing. Alexandra believes that when writers write sincerely, their work becomes relatable and resonates with readers. She advises writers to focus on their own experiences and emotions instead of worrying about fancy words or seeking validation through likes and followers. Alexandra celebrates the power of being authentic and the ability to connect with people on a deeper level through writing.
The Magic of Constraints in Writing and Blogging
Alexandra discusses the benefits of setting constraints in writing and blogging. She explains how limitations can spark creativity and provides examples of how she sets constraints for her own writing projects. Alexandra shares her experience of creating a routine and blogging challenge where she wrote creatively about her everyday life for 30 days. She believes that constraints help writers focus, make writing more enjoyable, and overcome the fear of starting. Alexandra highlights the importance of consistency and finding inspiration in one's passion rather than relying solely on external validation.
Teaching and Supporting Non-Native English Writers
Alexandra shares her work as a teacher, focusing on creative reading and writing projects with non-native English writers. She encourages beginners and people who feel anxious about writing in English to reach out for support, as she understands the challenges they face. Alexandra emphasizes the importance of self-assessment in writing and creating a blogging community. She offers her expertise and experience to help non-native English writers start their writing journey, providing guidance and tips for overcoming obstacles and embracing their authentic voice.
A chat with Aleksandra, an English teacher who's passionate about reading and writing in English -- her second language.
Aleksandra shares her thoughts on the importance of writing about what she loves, reading and living a creative lifestyle.
She challenges the idea that big words are crucial for impactful prose and emphasises that even writers with basic language skills can be effective storytellers.
I hope you'll find this useful!
Books we mentioned:
On Writing by Stephen King
Storyworthy by Matthew Dicks
Atomic Habits by James Clear
The Secret Life of You by Kerri Sackville
Catching the Big Fish by David Lynch
Stephen Fry's Great Mythology Series (by Stephen Fry)