Click here for THIS WEEK’S EPISODE
Here's a writing challenge:
Do you have a subject you're passionate about? Immigration, crime, abortion, the economy, anything. Now, write a very short (100 - 200 word) statement of that belief. Easy, right? It's something you're passionate about, after all.
Now for the challenging part:
Write another 100-200 word statement opposite to the one you just wrote. Make it believable. Try to be genuine and sincere and not sabotage your imaginary opponent's argument. Don't worry. No one else has to see it but you.
Unless you want a real challenge…
Try sharing your argument with a friend who holds the opposite view. Make sure you've written it to their satisfaction. Can you do it?
Why Bother?
A recent article by Star Parker makes a compelling argument that Americans are Not Interested in the Middle Ground.
The purpose of Directed Fiction is not to water down strong opinions in search of some elusive middle ground. Instead, the goal is to clearly articulate two distinct points of view and then judge between them.
The first statement you write will express your personal bias, which is essential for creating any work of fiction. Writing the opposing point of view creates a counter-narrative that is intended to challenge your bias.
Now that you have two narratives, the trick is to find some objective means to judge between them. That's what I'm attempting to do in THIS WEEK'S EPISODE.
It's not easy. Enjoy!