The MOP Theory Page: Why We Write Dialogues

Much of the learning that happens in this program utilizes the idea of

"active imagination," a term coined by the psychologist, Carl Jung. He

felt that by doing such things as creating imaginary dialogues, a person

is able to make better use of his talents. When dealing with something as

powerful as writing, we need all the help we can get! In this program you

are led to creating dialogues between yourself and an imaginary

character, "My Other Persona," (MOP) in which you discuss the various

writing skills by creating an imaginary teaching lesson.

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Any teacher will tell you that you never learn something so well as when

you teach it. Preparing the lessons, presenting the lessons and, most of

all, having your students question your* lesson, quite naturally leads you

to a deeper understanding of your lesson. My Other Persona will become

your imaginary student. MOP wants to know about the topics covered

in this program. MOP lives to have discussions with you! MOP may

even tempt you to get off the track sometimes, but you can always bring

him/her/it back to the topic. MOP is bright, funny, inquisitive and

attentive. MOP is a part of you.

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If you are feeling a bit adventurous, you might try discussing other issues

with MOP. And by all means, try this technique when studying for a

test, or just when you need to review. Human beings seem to know more

than they know they know. Many of our insights, memories, and

understandings get put away into our unconscious when they are not

immediately needed. Writing dialogues can be an effective way for you

to tap into some of what you didn't know you knew. The dialogues can

help you make sense of this knowledge.

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If you try it, I'd love to hear about your experiences. Drop me an email:

 

PS: There's an interesting journaling process called The Intensive Journal which uses lots of dialogues as well as a fascinating assortment of other writing exercises. The idea here is to use the writing process to explore yourself--who you are and where you may be going. Check out their website for a list of workshops, and/or email them from the website to be placed on their mailing list. http://www.intensivejournal.org/

*Thank you, Chris Berkhout for this correction!