I always thought that school was one big memorization game and that the only people with a bright future were those who could remember the most. I remember feeling doomed as I am awful at memorization, however through hard work and dedication I found that I too have a fighting chance.

Why do we value intelligence as the memorization of trivial bullshit?

This is a testament to how powerful writing can be. Instead of being nothing more than superficial garble writing has the ability to change perspectives and even give people the inspiration to grab life's nuts. ;)

Essays are far too often misconstrued as terrifying especially when there seems to be an omnipresent threat of failure. We create stigmas in our minds surrounding essays based on past experiences and view them not as ways of expression but instead as perilous endeavors. I believe the fear surrounding essays comes from uncertainty.

Writing should not be posed as monotonous work used to showcase one's 'understanding' of the assigned text, but instead should be used as a tool to promote individualism and creativity.