I have this fear too where I might write something that is my truth and be criticised or told it’s not right. I have to keep reminding myself that’s it my truth. I go back to that saying ‘truth is in the eye of beholder’. Like you, I don’t wish to offend but I also don’t wish to shut up just because it might offend someone. It’s a hard road for me - like you say, is it gender or upbringing or something else? Pleasing other people is a huge driver for me and it can be crippling when it comes to self expression and authenticity.
Love this reminder. I also loved the episode you did on secret library. Really inspiring.
Definitely a hard line to walk! I think just the desire to be sensitive and authentic is enough to set the right balance. Thank you for reading (and listening!). :)
Anna this is such a great piece (and thank you for mentioning me). It's such a great reminder - I'd actually forgotten I'd written that blog post!
I remember going on a writing retreat a number of years ago. I was discussing my novel with two published authors and said I was worried about people being offended because the fictional midwife (based heavily on one I came across when I gave birth to my son) was not nice - and I didn't want to offend all midwives! But they said that I had to write what was right for me and the novel. It wasn't my job to protect the feelings of all midwives. I'm paraphrasing but that's what it came down to.
I'll check out the other links you mentioned. Thank you!
I have this fear too where I might write something that is my truth and be criticised or told it’s not right. I have to keep reminding myself that’s it my truth. I go back to that saying ‘truth is in the eye of beholder’. Like you, I don’t wish to offend but I also don’t wish to shut up just because it might offend someone. It’s a hard road for me - like you say, is it gender or upbringing or something else? Pleasing other people is a huge driver for me and it can be crippling when it comes to self expression and authenticity.
Love this reminder. I also loved the episode you did on secret library. Really inspiring.
Definitely a hard line to walk! I think just the desire to be sensitive and authentic is enough to set the right balance. Thank you for reading (and listening!). :)
It's always a pleasure to read and watch your posts! And thank YOU for sharing your talents.
Anna this is such a great piece (and thank you for mentioning me). It's such a great reminder - I'd actually forgotten I'd written that blog post!
I remember going on a writing retreat a number of years ago. I was discussing my novel with two published authors and said I was worried about people being offended because the fictional midwife (based heavily on one I came across when I gave birth to my son) was not nice - and I didn't want to offend all midwives! But they said that I had to write what was right for me and the novel. It wasn't my job to protect the feelings of all midwives. I'm paraphrasing but that's what it came down to.
I'll check out the other links you mentioned. Thank you!