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In another class we were discussing how the "language" of the Western gay/queer/bisexual/lesbian movement has affected sexual identity movements in other countries. Some claim that by using the terms from the Western culture, these nations have also adopted the Western homophobia attached to them. I wonder if the terms themselves carry any connotation. It seems that usage and dictionary definition can be very different.  It is similar to our varying definitions of feminism. Depending on various aspects of identity a person’s “definition” of feminism may vary greatly.

This variation in personal connotation and definition of words makes me wonder about writing. In class we discussed the effectiveness of our writing style, in the way it impacts the reader. But personally, when posting online I could care less about the reader (I can’t narrow the audience or know the audience), so I write for myself. Therefore, rather than considering the impact I’m having (or not) on some unknown reader, I will consider the effect it had/has on me as a writer. I experimented with placing myself in this third essay (look at the form), by placing myself in some sections while remaining more distant in others. In the end, I found the entire essay enjoyable to write just in different ways. The impersonal seemed more concrete and scientific, while the personal was a more rewarding manner of expressing my experiences and emotions.