Really important questions here. All writers have to borrow from the experiences of others. There's a weird double standard about it too. Historical fiction writers are allowed to write situations they've never lived. So are authors who write genres involving murder. Other cultural experiences are supposed to be off limits if we haven't personally lived them, but what is the difference? It's all humanity. Writing with truth and respect is part of the craft. Well said, Matt.
Really important questions here. All writers have to borrow from the experiences of others. There's a weird double standard about it too. Historical fiction writers are allowed to write situations they've never lived. So are authors who write genres involving murder. Other cultural experiences are supposed to be off limits if we haven't personally lived them, but what is the difference? It's all humanity. Writing with truth and respect is part of the craft. Well said, Matt.