This chapter
delves into the topic of multimodal composition and argues, essentially, that a
multimodal approach is really valuable in the thinking, planning, composing and
revision stages of composition of all kinds. Palmeri particularly focuses on
the importance of a multimodal approach in writing, since writing has
historically been viewed and taught as a monomodal process.
Palmeri claims,
“English teachers have much to gain by studying and teaching other forms of
composing” (27). This is a point that is reiterated frequently and explored in
depth in various ways throughout the chapter. Palmeri emphasizes on many
occasions how helpful it would be for students if they were encouraged to think
multimodally when composing. He argues that monomodal composition can hinder
creativity and prevent students from composing to the best of their abilities.
Similarly, the
author believes that “composers are better able to make remote associations if
they draw upon and combine multiple creative traditions in composing their
work” (31). Essentially, the author’s main purpose in this chapter is to
explain how valuable it is for any and all writers/students/humans to be
multimodal in many ways when it comes to composing, because multimodal
thinking, composing, and revising allow for the most creativity and the highest
possibility of successful expression.
I can’t say I
have applied this theory to my own writing or “composing” in the past.
Honestly, when I write, my planning, composing, and revising stages are pretty
straightforward and monomodal in their writing-focused approach. However, I
work at the HUB writing center on campus, and I have witnessed how multimodal
tactics can be effective for other writers I have helped. Some people are much
more auditory or visual than I am, for example, so speaking or drawing their
ideas (as opposed to free writing them) can be very useful.
You work at the HUB-good to know. This might be why you know your process so well, where others may not (or may not feel a process is necessary beyond last minute all night without revisions).
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