Even though I am not actually taking quotations and citing them in my project, they are still useful for my overall project. I use them as a way to improve my writing and create a stronger storyline. They provide me with ways to create a character, develop a storyline in a proper arc, and it gives me guidelines on dialogue or setting. These are all things that I struggle with that these books help me sift through. When it comes to the actual short stories, they inspire me and provide me with key traits that show what makes a good author. These texts allow me to connect with my characters and develop well thought through settings. They also allow me to feel confident in my writing and what I am putting out there. I think the best way to see this influence is the way that Hazel has changed between the first story and the second one. I’ve been really trying to use my books to push me to create a stronger, revised draft. 

I do respect and admire the texts and writers I deal with. Mary Gaitskill has become a huge factor in my references and resources. Her writing is impeccable and deals with some serious topics like I want to do with my writing. She also intertwines flashbacks seamlessly in her work as well which is what I’m trying to do. I hope that that admiration and respect is evident in my own work. I do think that my prose conveys the attitude towards the texts and I do think I see a maturity in my work. I don’t think I have been taking my writing as seriously as I am write now and I think I owe that to my resources that I am using for this revision project.