Personal Writing A Taboo in Composition Classrooms

Abstract

Stereotyped as non-academic and debated as ultimately problematic, personal writing or expressive writing is still a hot issue in composition studies. Personal writing has fought a long battle for recognition in academic settings, and prejudice against personal narratives. The goal of this paper is to explore problematic aspects of personal writing genre and to assert that personal writing in general is academically viable and useful, and that autobiographical projects in particular are an effective way to teach especially in college and beyond. In effect, personal writing should be considered one of pedagogical cornerstones in composition studies. The examination of personal writing in this paper begins with a description of definitions of personal writing, an overview of personal writing, an investigation of three main problems: the issue of problematic personal writing, misinterpretation and malpractice, myths and the limitations of personal writing. Then the paper concludes with recommendations to share with those who are interested in this issue and want to examine it further.