If I understand you correctly, you mean our personal story as writers, and not the specific story we are trying to “sell”/ publish? Well, my back story is pretty wild. My mother kidnapping us from communist Hungary in the 80’s to Israel, and then finding out I wasn’t actually Jewish, just before I was about to join the IDF. I must admit that it gives me a rather unique perspective, especially when I write about the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. Because I don’t belong to a specific identity group, I can keep a more nuanced perspective and focus on the pure human aspect. But, I also get attacked for it…
Yes, that's exactly what I mean, Imola. That is such a unique story that can really pull people into who you are and the work you're doing. And yes, I imagine you get attacked for it, but stories are polarizing and there's usually a group or groups who will despise you for it. What you need to focus on are the ones who love you for it and connect deeply with the story you're telling.
Thanks Kern for the positive boost in mindset. You have hit the nail on the head.
Yes, it is the secret sauce.
So does the writing have to be political, to draw mass interest ?
I did a quick check on new recent writers who received huge advances - with a small sample. You are right, it seems so with subject matter they worked with.
I think maybe your onto something, and this needs to be explored further.The power structures and personal experience, draws people in.
Some people may not be comfortable writing a political novel though.
If I understand you correctly, you mean our personal story as writers, and not the specific story we are trying to “sell”/ publish? Well, my back story is pretty wild. My mother kidnapping us from communist Hungary in the 80’s to Israel, and then finding out I wasn’t actually Jewish, just before I was about to join the IDF. I must admit that it gives me a rather unique perspective, especially when I write about the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. Because I don’t belong to a specific identity group, I can keep a more nuanced perspective and focus on the pure human aspect. But, I also get attacked for it…
Yes, that's exactly what I mean, Imola. That is such a unique story that can really pull people into who you are and the work you're doing. And yes, I imagine you get attacked for it, but stories are polarizing and there's usually a group or groups who will despise you for it. What you need to focus on are the ones who love you for it and connect deeply with the story you're telling.
That is precisely my philosophy Kern!! How did you know? :)
Great minds...👌🏾
Thanks Kern for the positive boost in mindset. You have hit the nail on the head.
Yes, it is the secret sauce.
So does the writing have to be political, to draw mass interest ?
I did a quick check on new recent writers who received huge advances - with a small sample. You are right, it seems so with subject matter they worked with.
I think maybe your onto something, and this needs to be explored further.The power structures and personal experience, draws people in.
Some people may not be comfortable writing a political novel though.