What is
creative non-fiction?
1. Synonyms: Literary non-fiction, new journalism,
literary journalism
2. Definition:
A. It is a hybrid of
literature and non-fiction:
Non-fiction
elements
|
Literary
elements
|
essay form
|
story/narration
(n)
|
explanation/exposition (e)
|
place/scene/setting (p)
|
standard rhetorical patterns
|
characterization (c)
|
|
focuses on ideas, facts (not
language) |
author personally engaged
(s) |
researched
facts (R)
|
literary voice/feel
(lx)
|
| |
artistic, instinctual |
| |
polished language
|
B. The author tells a story (entertains
the readers) , presents factual information (expands readers' knowledge of the
subject), and shares passion for the topic.
The trick is to balance these three elements to make the text work for
the readers. Too much or not enough of either one can weaken the piece.
C. It presents a whole picture of the subject (holistic)—recognizes the
complexity of the world/ the limits of what we can know.
It presents a way of looking at the world:
--concrete
examples, narration
--grounded
in self
--interesting
to the reader (and writer)
--unique
voice
D.
It presents documentable subject matter--grounded in real-world facts and
issues.
E.
It presents useful, interesting facts based on exhaustive research.
F.
The facts come alive through narration and setting—or well developed
scenes (place).
G.
It presents details that help the reader understand the main point.
H.
It focuses on showing rather than telling.
Guidelines for Writing Creative Non-Fiction
(from Barbara Lounsberry, The Literature of Reality,
G. Talese & B. Lounsberry, eds. HarperCollins, 1996, p. 30)
1. Research thoroughly.
2. Cultivate relationships with your
subjects over a period of time to create trust, absorb
information, note change, and know individuals so you can
describe their thoughts, feelings, and attitudes correctly.
3. Never invent or change facts or events.
The truth is stranger than fiction. (Check this
article from the New York Times.)
4. Avoid composites.
5. Aim for a clear style with rhythm,
"texture," color, and a dramatic pace.
6. Write for real people to enrich their
lives.
7. Write about real events and people to
make them come alive and record them.
8. "Have faith in the value and
importance of human being and human events..."
For more information on creative
non-fiction check the Creative
Non-Fiction Goals page.