But with nonfiction, the task is very straightforward: Do the research, tell the story.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
To reconstruct stories and scenes, nonfiction writers must conduct vigorous and responsible research. In fact, narrative requires more research than traditional reportage, for writers cannot simply tell what they learn and know; rather, they must show it.
Writing a nonfiction story is like cracking a safe. It seems impossible at the beginning, but once you're in, you're in.
Research for fiction is a funny thing: you go looking for one piece of information, and find something altogether different.
I write nonfiction in this thriller-esque style. I have all the facts; I research it. I have thousands of pages of court documents... I try to get inside my stories.
I like to get paid for doing basic research, so it's pleasant to write some nonfiction about it.
I tend to research as I write so that the narrative can take priority, which is important for a piece of fiction, I think, finding out facts as and when I need to.
Nonfiction means that our stories are as true and accurate as possible. Readers expect - demand - diligence.
I read widely - for news, the arts, science, for entertainment, and the value of being informed - and, as a fiction writer, I can't help transposing what I learn into the scenario for a novel or story.
You can tell a more over-the-top incredible story if you use a nonfiction form.
I don't do nonfiction anymore. Eventually, you just feel constrained by the facts. You want to go where the words take you, and people's actual lives don't always conform. And you can't know them that well.