Fiction vs. Non-fiction vs. Poetry

For me, writing fiction is more challenging than writing non-fiction or poetry, so I am inclined to ask myself ‘Why?’

Writing fiction seems to come so naturally for some. I, personally, have always found fiction writing hard to grasp, wondering how authors can develop a compelling story seemingly out of thin air?

With practice, I am learning how developing a fictional story is done - probably not for everyone, but for me. I enjoy reading fiction, and I have discovered I enjoy writing it, too. My process starts with an idea for a story, a vague idea of main characters and a message that I want to leave with the reader. Not a preachy message, but an understanding, so-to-speak, by connecting to the story. It’s developing that connection that I find mysterious and compelling. It remains allusive for me.

Though, I am discovering that there is a lot of truth in fiction, as written into a story through the author’s life experiences. I think that’s the idea that helps me most in learning how to be a better writer - that fiction is not an entire lie or made-up story, much of the expression comes from a life lived. At least, in my understanding. That’s the idea of “write what you know.” You can’t help what you know, and it’s going to find it’s way into your writing.

The idea of writing good fiction seems to remain just beyond my grasp. It carries a little bit of mysticism and I am in awe of writers who can do it well, causing me to transcend my reality, to connect and escape into the story. I wish to do that with the writing of quality fictional content. I am learning and I keep trying, but I don’t know if I will ever achieve the likes of what I imagine to be a great writer of fiction. It’s hard.

I have an easier time writing personal essays, in the attempted format of creative non-fiction. I’m still developing my style and my voice here. Many people say they have a harder time with the idea of writing anything so personal. I cannot really comprehend that, as we all have experiences and philosophies, but I accept the fact that many people don’t feel comfortable expressing themselves in this way. For myself, I often find it easier to convey an idea, philosophy or experience directly while sharing personal experiences, hopefully creating the idea that the reader is not alonee in their feelings or experiences. For other people, it’s exactly the opposite.

The trick here is creating a piece that is more than something that should remain a journal entry for your own therapeutic purposes, as compared to developing something appealing on a more universal level. It’s a balancing act that takes practice.

Poetry is my comfort zone for writing. Not everyone likes my style or content, but I’m okay with that. I’m comfortable with it. Poetry allows me to express emotional ideas in a very direct and personal way. It allows for a bit of mystery as the writer, as well as personal interpretation for the reader to experience. I challenge myself by learning new formats, beats, rhymes and words. Some styles come to me more naturally than others, but it all supports furthering my own education as a poet.

In order to become a better writer, and to find your niche, try writing in different categories, genres and styles until you find what suits you best as a writer - and that may change over time, so keep challenging yourself. No one ever has to see your attempts accept you, and it all leads to learning.

Thanks for reading! What’s your favorite catagories and genre to write and/or read? What do you find the most difficult?