My writing to this point has been a left brain
activity. I have been outlining the points that will accomplish each chapter's purpose, their appropriate juxtaposition, etc. My right brain gets involved as I consider how to express these points creatively, in a way that will engage the reader. Here's where I'm finding the need to interject my own experience.A recent article on Suite101.com suggested the idea of a narrative approach to nonfiction. I like it, and I can see its usefulness. First, it draws people in by making the dry content more human. Second, it allows concrete illustrations of some abstract philosophical concepts. And, third, it breaks up the discussion. It provides a transition between to topics of comparison by virtue of a common denominator: my experience.
As a matter of curiosity, I am interested in others' thoughts. Do you think narrative content has a role in nonfiction (of the sort that I am writing)?
3 comments:
Well... I guess one extreme of the narrative is a novel. Ayn Rand did this with Atlas Shrugged. The other is the very dry non-fiction.
I would encourage you to consider yourself and your ideal reader. Are you trying to impress and win over the intellectually deepest, most sophisticated and skeptical reader?
Or are you targeting everyman?
Me
P.S. Now unplug the Internet, get back to the keyboard and write some more!
Using the right brain in your writing is definitely advisable, in my opinion. Personal, soul-driven observances enhance the reader's experience. This generates more willingness to plow through the tougher, drier philosophical ideas you wish to impart.
Excellent points!
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