TIMED WRITING: the Thirty Minute Essay

     Define, characterize, and discuss the meaning of the Chinese word ming and relate this meaning to the Western concept of the same equivalent word. Develop in your essay how these two concepts are different.

THE EXPLANATORY ESSAY: Writing a Congruent Essay From a Series of Questions (Suggested time: 1 hr.)

     Explain as fully as you can the concept of chen. In so doing discuss the role of thunder, fear, and the seeking of inner peace. If a person loses material possessions, what must be done to regain them? What is the irony in this? How does this relate to the concepts of the yin and yang of life? How does one remain balanced so as to prevent being hopelessly tossed hither and thither? When inner shock is at its height, how should an individual respond?

THE PERSONAL ESSAY

     Play around with the questions in the preceding section (explanatory essay) and then construct a personal essay as to how these ideas pertain to your philosophy of life. Can you use such an approach to life to influence your jen? Illustrate whatever ideas you have on these subjects by weaving together your ideas through a personal narrative and any anecdotes which illustrate your sentiments.