In a post on the DIY MFA blog, Lee Bukowski offers advice for writing about sensitive topics in your fiction. “Adult readers want topics that produce a strong emotive response. They want to know they are not alone in their struggles,” Bukowski says. These struggles can include abandonment, addiction, and abuse, and it’s important that you portray them well, for your readers and your reputation.
Bukowski offers five tips:
- Don’t Sugarcoat. “When writing about tough topics, don’t be afraid to be raw and put it all out there,” she says. “Sensitive subjects resonate with readers when they are written realistically, not glossed over.”
- Draw on Your Own Experiences Whenever Possible. If you’ve experienced any of these situations, use it. Don’t be afraid of channeling that history, while also considering your own emotional needs.
- Do Your Research/Ask the Pros. “When writing about sensitive subjects that you have not personally experienced, speak to people who have,” Bukowski says. “They will ensure you portray characters authentically including how they talk, dress, and behave.”
- Have a Purpose. Don’t tackle these topics lightly or use them for flavor. “If you set out to write about a sensitive topic, commit to it,” Bukowski writes. “Don’t try to tackle multiple issues or characters that tick a box.”
- Bring Closure. “Try to give readers hope that they can overcome difficulties,” Bukowski advises. “That’s not to say you should patronize readers or pretend that every problem has an easy—or any—solution. Though my protagonist’s problems are not all solved by the end of the book, she finds her voice. Shouldn’t that be our wish for our readers?”
