Sweeping

After grading essays for two hours straight, it has occurred to me that the strength of a student's writing often hinges on what they omit as opposed to what they produce. Contractions, personal pronouns, weak words, unclear pronouns...none of them are that big of a deal here and there, but the cumulative effect is that they muddy the water. The writing is less clear, less concise, less inviting. Sweep away that which is unneeded, in writing and in life, and allow the vivid to remain.