Becoming a Great Essayist Season 1 Episode 1 Steal, Adopt, Adapt: Where Essays Begin

Becoming a Great Essayist is a new series that explores the art and craft of essay writing. In episode 1, entitled Steal, Adopt, Adapt: Where Essays Begin, host Alice Flaherty delves into the fundamentals of the essay form.

Flaherty begins by exploring the roots of the essay in the work of Michel de Montaigne, the 16th century French writer who is widely considered the father of the genre. She discusses how Montaigne's approach to writing, which emphasized personal experience, self-reflection, and a willingness to grapple with complexity and contradiction, set the stage for the development of the essay as we know it today.

From there, Flaherty dives into the nitty-gritty of essay writing. She talks about the importance of reading widely in order to develop a sense of what makes a compelling essay, and suggests that aspiring essayists should pay special attention to how other writers structure their work, use language, and employ rhetorical devices.

Flaherty also stresses the importance of learning how to "steal, adopt, and adapt" from other writers. She explains that successful writing often involves borrowing ideas, techniques, and even entire passages from other authors, then adapting them to fit one's own voice and style. She cites examples of how some of today's most celebrated essayists, such as Rebecca Solnit and Ta-Nehisi Coates, have used this approach to great effect.

Throughout the episode, Flaherty offers practical tips and exercises for aspiring essayists. She encourages viewers to experiment with different writing styles, to practice freewriting in order to generate new ideas, and to hone their skills by writing daily and seeking feedback from trusted readers.

Overall, Steal, Adopt, Adapt: Where Essays Begin is a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the world of the essay. Whether you're a seasoned writer looking to master this challenging form, or a novice seeking guidance and inspiration, this episode offers valuable insights and advice that will help you take your writing to the next level.