And here we are; another Thursday is upon us and that means another lesson or two about writing.
Since I am writing a novel right now that incorporates a lot of history, I thought we would talk about historical fiction and a writer’s freedom regarding history.
First a quote to get us started.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“The very ink with which history is written is merely fluid prejudice.”
Mark Twain
I’m sure that applies in some way. LOL
When writing historical fiction, the key word to pay attention to is fiction. Our primary goal is to tell a good story. There mere fact that our novel or story is fiction means we have some freedom with facts. Yes, we can stay true to actual events that happened, but we have great room to stretch out in and move about in when writing our story.
I have no problem at all saying that I met Bill Gates in my novel. I’m sure Mr. Gates won’t mind, and I in no way am altering the “truth” about history when I do that. Considering the fact that much of written history is subjectively written leaves me feeling fine with my creative license.
Again, and I can’t stress this enough, our number one goal when writing fiction is to tell a great story. Keep that in mind while you write and don’t shackle yourself with concerns over the “truth” about history.
TIP OF THE DAY
Remember that there is a huge difference between fiction and fantasy; this is a point worth considering if you write historical fiction. My goal in historical fiction is not to change history; my goal is to use history as a backdrop for my story.
If you are writing fantasy then considerations about factual history can be tossed aside; not so with historical fiction. I research before I write about an event in my novel. I want to stay true to actual events that happened. It is a distinction worth noting and remembering.
BOOK OF THE DAY
If you are a Civil War buff then pick up a book by Bruce Catton. He won a Pulitzer for his historical fiction about that war and he is a master at that genre…or he was…he’s dead. J
SITE OF THE DAY
I thought I would share a blog from another friend of mine today. Her name is Bobbi and she has a “favorite recipe” blog that is quite interesting. Here it is.
PROMPT OF THE DAY
What do you see? How does it make you feel? Remember when we are writing that feelings are a strong appeal for readers. Tap into their feelings and you will have a follower for life.
A SHORT ONE TODAY
How are you doing with your novel? Making progress? I can tell you my process if that is any help. I basically write the bare bones of my novel on the first writing. When that is done I go back and fill in. I expand on character descriptions and scenes, and I also fill in with lengthier pontifications about points I feel are important.
I do this because I don’t like interrupting the flow of the story on that first write. Once the entire story is told, then I don’t have to worry so much about the rhythm of the story while I backfill areas that need more attention.
I hope that helps. Have a great day y’all and I’ll be back with more tips next Tuesday.
Bill
“Helping writers to spread their wings and fly.”
Billybuc
Artistry With Words 