Meaning: Iris Chang, the author of the quote, was a renowned historian and journalist who is best known for her book "The Rape of Nanking," which details the atrocities committed by the Japanese army in Nanking, China, during the Second Sino-Japanese War. The quote reflects Chang's transition from journalism to historical writing, and how her experience at the writing program at Johns Hopkins University played a pivotal role in shaping her writing style and ultimately led to the publication of her first book.

Chang's background as a journalist likely provided her with a strong foundation in research, writing, and storytelling, which are all essential skills for a historian. However, the quote suggests that the writing program at Johns Hopkins offered her a new perspective on writing that went beyond the confines of traditional journalism and historical writing. It emphasized a focus on writing style, indicating that Chang was exposed to different literary techniques and approaches that may not have been part of her journalistic or historical training.

The fact that Chang was asked to write her first book after completing the program speaks to the impact it had on her as a writer. It suggests that the program not only honed her writing skills but also gave her the confidence and opportunity to delve into long-form historical writing. This transition from journalism to historical writing is significant, as it allowed Chang to pursue a deeper exploration of historical events and narratives, which ultimately culminated in the publication of "The Rape of Nanking" and solidified her reputation as a historian.

Chang's experience also highlights the interdisciplinary nature of writing and historical research. While her background in journalism provided her with the tools for factual reporting and storytelling, the writing program at Johns Hopkins expanded her repertoire by emphasizing the importance of writing style. This intersection of journalism, history, and writing style likely shaped Chang's approach to historical storytelling, allowing her to convey the gravity of the events she chronicled in a compelling and impactful manner.

Furthermore, the quote sheds light on the role of formal education in shaping a writer's career. Chang's decision to attend a writing program at a prestigious institution like Johns Hopkins indicates her commitment to furthering her craft and seeking out new perspectives. The program not only refined her writing style but also served as a catalyst for her transition to historical writing, demonstrating the value of academic programs in nurturing and propelling aspiring writers toward new opportunities and creative growth.

In conclusion, Iris Chang's quote encapsulates her journey from journalism to historical writing, underscoring the transformative impact of her experience at the writing program at Johns Hopkins. It illuminates the intersection of journalism, history, and writing style in shaping her career as a historian and author, and underscores the significance of formal education in fostering a writer's development. Chang's transition and the subsequent publication of "The Rape of Nanking" stand as a testament to the profound influence of educational and professional experiences in shaping the trajectory of a writer's career.