1st Year Hon. Mention: Although Bereft of You

WRIT 1700B, Writing: Process and Practice. CD: Jon Sufrin.

Abstract

For this assignment, students are invited to compose an essay in the style of popular magazines and newspapers. In "Although Bereft of You," the author presents an interesting take on a difficult subject: death and grief that follows. The author’s lyrical approach is layered with sources (e.g., Vera Brittain), demonstrating that creativity is based on lived experience and research. As the author writes, "Through my blurred vision and hitching breaths, my mind flashes to one of my favourite books: 'Testament of Youth', a memoir by writer and activist Vera Brittain, a woman who, arguably, understood loss better than most. Having lived through both World Wars—the first of which stole her fiancé, Roland, and brother, Edward—she knew the true toll death left on the living." Overall, this engaging, emotionally driven essay holds promise for publication in a creative writing journal.