Watanabe’s card system, contd. 2
Replacement of cards
Of course, the cards inside the box is different from 20 years ago. They are about rhetorician in 18th century. Because this is my current research interest. I have been immersed myself in writing 650 pages book “History of English Studies”. While this task, the card box always on the desktop. And I frequently shift the contents of the box.
For example, when I finish writing a chapter about paleography in 17th century, and move to philosophy of language in 18th century next chapter, I completely replace a contents of the box. In this way, the card box recommended by Professor Schneider still plays an important role on my research, like a Task Force.
Watanabe, Shoichi, Chiteki Seikatsu no Houhou (A way to intellectual life),1976, p.p. 131-132. (Translation by Hawk)
He uses two kind of index card box according to a picture in the book. One is medium size wooden card box he bought in Germany 20 years ago. Another is larger size steel card box like this.
He selects cards he need for a moment from the steel box to the wooden box. He call the selected cards as “Task Force”.
# 2007.02.13 Fixed a link for the steel box
February 12th, 2007 at 10:57 pm
This is good to know, that he used the system for many years and adapted it to several projects and stages of his work.
February 12th, 2007 at 11:07 pm
>>chrisb
Yes. :)
His episode give us a confidence to keep using card system in a long time span.
February 14th, 2007 at 4:51 am
Author Holly Lisle has a method for quick plot creation using notecards:
“You’ll discover surprises — scenes that play off of each other to create humor or tragedy that you had not foreseen. You’ll find a great deal of magic waiting as you shuffle your little squares of paper around.”
http://hollylisle.com/fm/Workshops/notecard_plotting.html
February 14th, 2007 at 9:46 am
>>Anonymous
Thank you for the link. And yes, individual card like note cards or index cards is surprisingly good for taking this kin of inspiration.