I've received my thesis proposal feedback. I submitted five double-spaced pages; my supervisor replied with one single-spaced page. The feedback-to-work submitted ratio is decent.

My thesis proposal is barely decent, however. Insipred by Shannon, here are some choice comments from my supervisor:

• "Right now, these points are still a bit buried under details, and there is no clear statement of the overarching argument."
• "In terms of the proposal itself, I can see that you are unfamiliar with the genre -- which is to be expected. Frankly it does not make for inspiring reading!"
• "The opening summary is really unnecessary since you go on to make each point under specific 'sections'."
• "Also, the passive voice proliferates. Please excise it from your writing."
• "I'd say that the work you have done this term has been very solid. You are now well positioned to undertake the analysis and writing -- once you have a clear thesis. Write it out and pin it above your desk so that you literally do not lose sight of it as you develop your discussion."

This is a good way for me to learn. My supervisor's criticism is valid and correct. In Winter 2003, I begin writing my thesis.