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- Writing Fiction Versus Non-Fiction
Writing Fiction Versus Non-Fiction
- By Brian Scott
- Published July 27, 2009
- Improving Your Writing Skills & Marketing ,
Brian Scott
Brian Scott is founder of Book Proposal Writing a free website that teaches you how to write a book proposal. Download your free sample book proposal today. Read his blog for freelance writers at working writersnewsletter
View all articles by Brian ScottFiction and non-fiction have been compared tirelessly throughout
the years. Because each genre has its own pros and cons, people often
debate about which writing style is easier or more practical. Let's
examine some differences, and then find out how they differ and what
similarities hold true to both.
How Does One Write About
Fiction?
Fiction writing tries to reach an audience that has
a knack for seeking entertainment. These readers want to feed their
imagination. They want the story to transport their imaginations to
different places and periods. A fiction writer should have a very big
imagination and be very creative.
A fiction writer should
have some basic requirements to write a good story; these basics
include developing: 1) a solid and interesting plot; 2) strong,
relatable characters; and 3) a great writing style with a flair of
creativity. Develop these elements fully. Concentrate on answering
the "whys" behind the events in your story.
Most
readers of fiction stories want to escape their realities and
challenge their brains. This is why including mysteries, conflicts
and suspense in your fiction is vital to entertain your readers.
These elements keep your readers enticed and glued to your story's
plot.
Most writers love writing fiction because the genre
does not have strict boundaries; fiction writers have more freedom
and control over what they create, without readers arguing what is
factual or not. Typically, research does not play an important role
in developing fiction books; what matters most is using your
imagination and creativity.
How Does One Write About
Non-Fiction?
Writing about non-fiction may not be as easy as
fiction writing. After all, non-fiction writers -- unlike their
counterparts -- thrive off what is real instead of finding
entertainment through the imagination.
Non-fiction writers
concentrate more on things that we can see and touch. Actual
experiences play a major role on the story's quality. Readers look
for vivid descriptions about events and historical references to
interest them.
Non-fiction writing requires extensive
research. You can't fake research in non-fiction writing. Filling in
spaces with fictional events is rarely tolerated. In fact, many
controversies in the publishing world have sprung up about false
research or fabricated stories, especially in memoirs and
journalistic pieces. As the author, you must include exact historical
and factual information.
Which Style Is Better To Use?
Fiction writing and non-fiction writing have many differences
and require different specialties and talents. Many writers may feel
confused on which writing style they want to adopt as their own.
Most writers say that sticking with one form of writing is
inadequate to earn a living as a freelance author. If you want to
become known and successful as a writer, then embrace both writing
styles because many different demands may come your way.
Each
style has its pros and cons that may render them equal to each other.
Although writing about fiction usually does not require a lot of
research, not every writer can transform his imagination and
make-believe-world to paper. Writers will still face obstacles in
non-fiction writing during the creative process. On the other hand,
doing research for fiction can be quite draining, but at least you
have freedom to create a storyline instead of having real events
dictate the storyline for you.
These two writing styles may
look different, and they have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Versatility in both styles can do a lot to establish your credibility
and creativity as an author.
Neither style is superior or
inferior from the other. Both genres capture the intelligence and
interest of many writers. You can't go wrong with either writing
style.