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A collection facts does not make a good essay. For it to be compelling, it has to grip the reader by their b**** and seduce them into following a narration. Dry historical writing may lure by the dramatic events that are being followed, history's actors be painted in lively colors, or simply the author's prose makes it a striking read with powerful observations, witty humour, or depth of human decency shining through.

I'm certain you can do it. The essential step is indeed having the blueprint, and I have learned not to start writing before I feel clear about this. It's indeed a feeling for me, and I gather it usually well on longer walks, and generally in a process of biting into a topic and letting go of it again.

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I was a writing instructor at the collegiate level and understand how all that works. I also like the writing style of Beard and DeVoto along with others, who blend the facts into the fabric of the story. Thanks for your feedback.

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