In the article “Revision Is Central to Developing Writing” by Linda Adler-Kassner and Elizabeth Wardle, the authors show the importance of revision in the writing process. They argue that writing is a process of discovery, and revision plays a critical role in shaping and developing one’s ideas. The authors contend that revision is not merely fixing errors or making surface-level changes but involves rethinking and reworking the entire piece. They discuss how the traditional understanding of revision as editing and proofreading is limiting and propose a broader concept of revision that includes reconceptualizing, rethinking, and reimagining one’s writing.
Comparing “Revision Is Central to Developing Writing” to Anne Lamott’s “Shitty First Drafts,” both essays show the importance of revision in the writing process. They share the idea that writing is an evolving process that requires multiple stages, and the first draft is rarely perfect. While Lamott’s essay focuses on the acceptance of “shitty” first drafts as a natural part of the process, Adler-Kassner and Wardle delve into the deeper aspects of revision as a means of developing and clarifying ideas. The two essays differ in their emphasis, with Lamott encouraging writers to embrace imperfection and Adler-Kassner and Wardle highlighting revision as a tool for intellectual growth. By comparing the two articles, I learned that revision is a multifaceted process that encompasses more than just correcting errors, it can lead to deeper understanding and more effective communication in writing.
