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As writers, we are often encouraged to “write what we know.” That’s all well and fine, but what if you’ve never lived in deep space, or in a dystopian future? The problem isn’t that you can’t write; it’s that you haven’t lived the experiences you need to bring those scenes to life. But fear not, aspiring storyteller; even without personal experience, you can still craft compelling characters and settings that resonate with your readers. So let’s visit some tips to help you write diverse characters and settings when you lack personal experience.
First and foremost, immerse yourself in thorough research! Delve deeply into the world you’re building by reading extensively, watching documentaries, and listening to podcasts that explore the nuances of your topic.
Engage in conversations with people who’ve lived the experiences you want to write about. If your story is set in a different time period or another culture, seek guidance from historians or academic experts in the field. This foundational research will lend authenticity and depth to your creations.
When writing outside your experience, it’s tempting to try capturing the overall essence of a culture or environment. However, it’s the small details that make a place or character feel real.
What does your character see? Describe the unique visual elements of the culture or environment.
What do they hear? Identify the distinct sounds that surround them.
What smells are present? Certain scents can evoke strong emotions and associations.
What textures do they encounter? Describe the tactile sensations that define the environment.
What do emotions do these senses provoke? How does the culture or environment make your character feel?
By focusing on the unique sensory details of a culture or setting, you can transport your readers, even when writing outside of your personal experience. In “The Namesake”, by Jhumpa Lahiri, the author describes the scents of Indian spices, and strains of Bengali music to transport the reader to the world of the Ganguli family. In “The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao”, Junot Díaz uses Dominican slang and the smells of traditional cooking to bring his story to life.
These authors demonstrate the power of sensory details to create an immersive experience for the reader, even when writing about cultures or settings outside of their own.
You're not just writing about a life, you're building one. Let your imagination run wild! Don't be limited by your own experiences. You're the architect, the creator. Your imagination is your superpower. Your God tool.
Just as an artist might study the masters, a skilled writer reads widely to tap into the collective wisdom of seasoned authors. Reading is like a masterclass in storytelling. When you immerse yourself in the works of authors who write about the cultures and experiences you want to portray, you’re not just learning, you’re absorbing a wealth of knowledge. Pay attention to how they build their characters, how they create their settings, how they’re able to put their audience in another time or place. Observe their use of language, how they pace their narrative, and their use of descriptions. By reading widely, you’ll learn to wield your own imagination with greater confidence and skill.
When exploring themes and narratives that are unfamiliar or outside your personal experiences, it’s crucial to find a balance between cultural specificity, and universal human truths. While including cultural details adds richness and authenticity to a story, the key is to ensure that the core emotions, struggles, and experiences depicted are relatable on a broader level.
Think of it like building a bridge between cultures: Start with the foundation of universal human experiences – love, loss, ambition, fear – then weave in the unique tapestry of cultural details. For example: Instead of describing a traditional wedding ceremony, focus on the anxieties, hopes, and expectations shared by the couple and their families. Grounding your story in universal human themes will create a connection with readers, while highlighting the particularities of the culture you’re portraying.
Be sure your portrayals are done respectfully and accurately. Cultural appropriation leads to destructive misrepresentations. Writers must conduct thorough research and consider the potential impact of their narrative choices. Treat all cultural elements carefully and avoid their exploitation for mere aesthetic purposes. Avoid falling into common pitfalls like portraying characters as solely defined by their “exotic” cultural background, reducing an entire culture to a single oversimplified narrative, or using cultural elements as mere plot devices without grounding them in reality.
When writing about unfamiliar cultures, consider using sensitivity readers from the community you’re portraying. This helps ensure your work is accurate, respectful, and avoids harmful typecasts.
When writing about experiences you haven’t personally lived, empathy is key. Put yourself in your characters’ shoes and consider their thoughts, feelings, and reactions. Consider whether they’ve faced generational and cultural trauma? Have they lived a war-torn life, or carry the scars of it? Remember, ethical considerations are paramount.
To further ensure authenticity, seek feedback from people with lived experience in the communities you're writing about. Their insights are invaluable for creating respectful and accurate representations.
In writing stories beyond your own experiences, the key is thorough research, empathy, and respect. By immersing yourself in the cultures and settings you’re portraying, focusing on sensory details, and seeking feedback from those with lived experience, you can create authentic, relatable worlds. Always remember to approach these narratives with care to avoid harmful stereotypes or misrepresentations. With these tools in mind, you can confidently write beyond your bubble and be the unbound storyteller with narratives that resonate with a broad audience.
~Dani
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