Fiction or Nonfiction?

Fiction or nonfiction? That is the question many wanna-be writers ask.

There is no right or wrong answer, but before we go any further let's define the two (as defined by Webster's dictionary).

Fiction - literature in which the plot and the characters are imaginary. Authors such as Stephen King and J. K. Rowling write fiction.

Nonfiction - literature dealing with real persons and events, as history or biography. Authors such as Sam Barry and Kathi Kamen Goldmark (Write That Book Already) write nonfiction. Their information deals with real people and real life experiences.

What you choose to do is entirely up to you. If you're not quite sure the first thing to ask yourself is "Do I have a good imagination?" If you do, then fiction may be the way to go. If your imagination is limited but you know a lot of things, then nonfiction would most likely be easier for you.

Personally I prefer to write nonfiction. I am knowledgeable in many areas and I want to share that knowledge with others. My love of homemaking and writing has given me a world of opportunity to teach my skills to others.

Keep in mind that once you choose a genre you do not have to stay there. You may find that as you are writing about your experiences you come up with a great idea for a fictional story. If that is the case, go with it. Real life experiences are often the base for fictional stories. For example Stephen King's novels are often based in Maine, his home state. It is an area he is familiar with so he is able to go into great detail when describing a town or the countryside.

Should you decide nonfiction may be more your style, think about the places you've been, the things you've done and the things you know. Make a list in each of the three categories, then pick the first one and write down some key points about it.

What I like most about nonfiction is I am able to write a short article and still get my point across. With fiction it takes much longer to get to the point. Please keep in mind that is my personal preference; don't let me disuade you from writing a fictional masterpiece.

Whatever your decision may be, keep in mind to do your best work. If writing nonfiction ensure the information you are relaying is correct. You do not want to provide inaccurate information as readers will quickly point out your errors. Plus if you want to get known for your writing, providing the right information will help you get known in a good way.

Have a great day!

Diane

p.s. What have you decided? Fiction or nonfiction? Why?