Experiment with Storytelling: Exploring the Art of Non-fiction - Sharing Ideas in Writing Groups and Securing Initial Critiques
Feeling Inspired? Dive into the World of Non-Fiction Writing!
Exploring the art of non-fiction writing, from essays to memoirs and everything in between? Let's take the plunge!
In a brand-new series, author, critic, and broadcaster Cristín Leach is diving deep into the non-fiction craft.
First up, let's discuss an intricate predicament: the issue of plagiarism. Many a budding author has shared a work-in-progress with a writing group, only to find it later copied or replicated with similar similarities. The golden rule here is simple: never do this to another writer. Be cautious about where you share your work-in-progress. The most beneficial readers and critiques are team players, not leeches.
Seek out a peer writer at a similar stage in their writing journey for a rewarding partnership. Writing workshops focused on your preferred genre can introduce you to potential partners. Pair up, and in turn, you'll spend time working on their writing, and they'll do the same for yours. This kind of reciprocal feedback can be priceless since it's free and built on mutual respect. Sometimes, having an initial reader who's not a writer can be beneficial too. They may offer an unbiased, passionate perspective on your work with no strings attached. Just make sure you stay away from lopsided writing groups.
Check Out: Demystifying Submissions – Insights from Irish Literary Journal Editors
Another alternative is finding a professional mentor. The Irish Writers Centre in Dublin offers an annual open-submission National Mentoring Programme, which includes non-fiction writers.
When your initial reader is someone close to you and you're penning memoirs or personal essays, you might hit a unique moral question right off the bat. It's about ethics, voice, and owning your story publically when it's deeply personal. Personal essays often feature real people; even a solo adventure isn't isolated.
There's no one-size-fits-all approach to this. I can offer a few steps:1. Give yourself permission to tell your story.2. Decide what details pertain to you.3. Avoid writing from perspectives that aren't yours. Anonymize people if necessary. Changing names and other details to protect identities is acceptable. Whether to invite comment, feelings, thoughts, or permissions depends on you.
Melissa Febos' book, Bodywork: The Radical Power of Personal Narrative (2022), is a fantastic resource on this complex terrain. She writes, "What upsets people can be difficult to predict... Each person who was present for the events I have written has a different true story for them." Febos suggests that, "There are essays that there are good reasons not to write."
Cristín Leach's memoir, Negative Space, is published by Merrion Press – read an excerpt here.**
Enrichment Data:1. Anonymization: Protect individuals' privacy by using pseudonyms or removing identifying details if they might be harmed by being identified.2. Permission: Seek permission from individuals who are featured prominently in your work, especially when tackling sensitive or potentially controversial topics.3. Protecting Identities: Be mindful of how your words might affect those involved, ensuring you maintain a fair and respectful portrayal.4. Honesty and Integrity: When writing, prioritize honesty and avoid self-justification or excuse-making.5. Respect and Sensitivity: Approach subjects with respect and empathy, considering the potential impact on the people involved.
Best Practices:- Verify Information: Ensure the facts in your story are accurate to avoid spreading misinformation.- Be Objective: Strive for objectivity when recounting events to maintain fairness and balance.- Consider Consequences: Reflect on how your work might impact those involved and consider possible long-term consequences.
In the pursuit of non-fiction writing, exploring matters of home and garden could be an exciting sub-genre to delve into. As one progresses in their writing journey, incorporating personal experiences and opinions on home-and-garden lifestyle can enrich the narrative, providing a compelling narrative for readers. For instance, discussing design influences, sustainable living practices, or gardening techniques based on personal experiences could significantly contribute to home-and-garden non-fiction.
