As work on my thesis progresses, my description of it evolves. I was happy with how simple and clear the first draft of my latest description came out. As it went through revision after revision, I became uncomfortable with how stuffy it sounded. My discomfort was soothed by my supervisor’s jabs at the nature of academic committees who job it is to review projects like mine.
I’m surprised at my reluctance to accept the yoke of the committee. I have clients who are far more exacting in their expectations, but I make revisions for them without protest (professional advice aside). When it comes to client-work, my writing is never about ego. I’m always focused on producing the best writing I can. When it comes to the academy, for some reason its gets personal.
In any case, if you’re interested in learning a little bit about a genius from 19th century Britain, here’s a gentle introduction to my thesis on John Ruskin’s works.
