Writing the Dissertation Proposal

...and drinking all the coffee.

Candice Wiswell

Jun 17, 2022

Hello,

Today, I have some quick updates, we touch on the future, and there’s a generative writing infographic, oh my!

What’s included today:

Quick Updates
Future Plans
Writing Prompts
What I’m Reading

Quick Updates

You’re probably wondering why there have been cricket sounds emitting from this newsletter.

I've been writing my dissertation proposal, which means I’ve been blurry-eyed, overly caffeinated, and in a perpetual state of typing as I try to meet my self-imposed deadline before the summer’s end.

At least there’s an end in sight for this Psychology Ph.D. and a light at the end of the tunnel.

A view inside the opening of an old brick tunnel with a light shining on the other side. — A light at the end of the tunnel.

I also updated my website, because, you know, I’m the worst at focusing on one thing at a time and had to break away from academic writing to do something creative.

Check out my newly updated website here.

Future Plans

I’m still uncertain about the future direction this newsletter will take, other than, of course, that it will include writing information and musings on being human.

Let me know what you would like to get out of this newsletter.

Do you want more writing prompts? More reflections on the human condition? Mindfulness? Chaos?

Writing Prompts

Earlier this year, I participated in the online workshop Poetry in All Forms with the Amber Flame, organized by the amazing people at Community Building Artworks.

The poem A Quatern About Joy by Courtney LeBlanc—Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Riot In Your Throat—was generated from that workshop using the quatern poetic form.

Pick a form, any form: List of 168+ Poetic Forms for Poets

Infograph: Quick Guide to Generative Writing. Make a list: Think of a meaningful event and make a list of the details. Poetic form: Pick a poetic form; challenge yourself by writing within its rules. Read poetry: Read poems written by other poets; analyze what you like and don’t like. Take a walk: Move and clear your mind; use your Notes app or bring a notepad! — Try something from this quick guide for generative writing.

What I’m Reading

Currently reading…

Isaac Asimov’s Pebble in the Sky (science fiction).

Up next…

I’m close to graduating (early 2023), so I’m preparing for a career move into User Experience (UX) Research. These books come highly recommended by the UX community.

Don Norman’s The Design of Everyday Things (nonfiction)

Steve Krug’s Don’t Make Me Think (nonfiction)

Like what you read?

Until next time!

— Candice

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