Blog #3

[Abby]

In Laurie Halse Anderson's book "Speak," Melinda's art teacher, Mr. Freeman, presents a year long project for the class: "by the end of the year, you must figure out how to make your object say something, express an emotion, speak to every person who looks at it" (location 219 on my Kindle). This project allows the art students to create something that reflects their inner being and shares it with others. However, it can be difficult for a person to transfer their deepest emotions and thoughts into something of the physical world in a form of art. Melinda is challenged as she goes about this project. She must create some sort of tree that is original, artistic, and unique to her. The idea of transferring elements of a person's inner being applies to my life, as well. Through various passions, such as my journaling and my music, I am challenged in a similar way as Melinda. Though it is often difficult, I enjoy being able to express my thoughts and emotions by using these outlets. I believe that this is an extremely healthy ability to have. It refreshes one's mind and heart and allows him or her to release their sadness, struggles, and even happiness.