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Writing as a lifestyle.

Edearl

Hi all,

I am three years into a diagnosis and after a significant period of adjustment and general sulking, having now made peace with it. I would like to start writing about contemporary issues and the Autistic Community. Does anybody have any ideas or suggestions as to where I could start?

  • In terms of writing as a whole (the practice), my advise would be to develop a penchant for reading a lot of different types of authors, from varying backgrounds and on different topics, and to observe and study their tone, use of language, use of literary devices. This is a general consensus view among many great writers - discover writers you enjoy reading, and use them as guidance in the formulation of your own writing style (voice).

    Finding your underlying passion and perspective:

    This may not come about immediately, but is a key component when writing. Many great writers who delve into specific topics, will typically have an underlying purpose that directs the way in which they present their thoughts. This process comes about when they identify something meaningful to them that drives-- how they think, and thusly what they think.

    Ask yourself questions, such that you are pinpointing what exactly is interesting, or bothersome about a particular topic or disagreement. You will then see a pattern emerge where there is a unifying aspect that reveals, HOW you come to see things, not just what you write -- whatever that is would be the driving force, and what observant fans of your readers will pick up on, and appreciate in your writing. In other words, it is the thing that differentiates you from other authors.

    The importance in taking notes:

    In order to communicate effectively, 'logos' (read Aristotle and Socrates), it is important to understand that thoughts are not absolute, but everchanging, and should thus be treated as something to be in constant rewewal, when presented with new information; hence, why reading a lot of different things is critical.

    • Keep a notepad beside your bed or desk at all times
    • Use apps on your phone that sync with your other devices (Onenote, Evernote)
    • Develop an observational skill in spotting opportunities for things to write about - for example, I am watching an interview of Brian Sewell, despite my displeasure for art history, but have thus far been inspired by some of the things he has spoken about, to which I have opinions on.