Wow, I haven’t done one of these in a loooong time. Originally I was gonna write a post about why I dsilike the advice to ‘write what you know’ and quote people on what they thought of it, then after talking with one of the friends I’d asked, I decided to do this poll first, then I’ll write the post and include the quotes and such.
So, without further ado, let’s see what you all think of this oft-quoted writing advice:
I’ll be posting the results next week, and then after that will come the post!
hskylianauthor.com 
Ooh, this is a good question! My opinion on it is that if taken to mean write only about things you know well, it’s very constricting and creativity-killing but “safe” writing advice. You’re not going to make huge mistakes, since you’re already very familiar with the subject. You’re also not stretching yourself or allowing your imagination to wander down unexplored lanes. If meant that way, I would never follow the advice. *sniffs imperiously* But if meant in the sense of personal emotional/spiritual experience, it’s some of the best writing advice out there. You can write about the most fantastical of things few have ever experienced IRL, but still be writing “what you know” because you’re drawing on emotions you’ve felt – hurt, pain, betrayal, joy, etc. You can take lessons you’ve learned and watch your characters learn the same things, which makes it even more authentic. (That said, I don’t think most people mean it THAT way when they share that writing advice. 😂)
I’m excited to see your post about this!!!
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