How to approach writing a character outside your cultural experience

Well, hello there, fearless scribes! Today, we will explore an exciting and sometimes-intimidating topic: writing characters outside your cultural experience. This topic is as crucial as a nice cuppa in the morning for any writer daring to venture beyond their familiar stomping grounds.

Why, you ask? Well, let's dig into that, shall we?

Why is it important to approach writing characters outside your cultural experience carefully?

Imagine this: You're reading a book set in, let's say, outer Mongolia. The characters are nomadic herders, but they keep talking about the office water cooler and take Friday off to play golf. Now, unless they're participating in a cultural exchange programme with suburbanites from New Jersey, you'll probably be scratching your head. This is the danger of getting cultural representation wrong – it's like serving fish and chips at a Texas barbecue: it simply doesn't fit!

You could also unintentionally cause offence. When cultural identities are wrongly depicted, it's not just an irritating oversight – it's a fundamental misrepresentation that can perpetuate harmful stereotypes or overlook these cultures' complex realities and histories. In the worst cases, it can be downright offensive. This doesn't mean you should shy away from writing about cultures different from your own, but rather that handling the task with the same care and respect you'd wish for your own culture is essential.

Research and preparation

Now, if you're thinking of writing about a culture that's not your own, the first thing you'll need is good old-fashioned research. We're talking books, documentaries, movies, interviews, and possibly a few hours (or days, or weeks) lost in the whirlpool of internet articles – all to give you a glimpse into the realities of the culture you're trying to capture.

Remember, though, you're an explorer, not an invader – the goal is to understand and represent, not to appropriate or oversimplify. Respect and mindfulness are your trusted guides in this journey.

Creating believable and authentic characters

Here's where the fun part starts – moulding your characters. But remember, you're not crafting a paper doll – you're bringing a living, breathing human being to life. This means understanding their motivations, values, and beliefs. If you're basing your character on a culture you're not part of, these elements should stem from your meticulous research, not stereotypes or clichés.

Imagine your character as a house – their culture is the foundation, their experiences are the walls, and their relationships are the roof. Each part is essential to keep the house standing and functional.

Sensitivity readers and beta readers

You wouldn't buy a house without getting a surveyor to check it over, would you? This is where sensitivity readers and beta readers come in. They're the experts who can spot the cracks in your walls, the wobbles in your foundation, or the leaks in your roof – basically, they'll help you ensure your character's house is up to code.

Finding the right sensitivity or beta reader may take some effort, but the rewards in terms of cultural accuracy and sensitivity are immeasurable.

Editing and revising

Once you have your feedback, it's time to pick up the tools and get to work. Editing and revising aren't just about fixing typos – it's about ensuring your cultural representation is accurate and respectful. Look for inconsistencies, check for stereotypes, and ensure your character's voice rings true.

One last tip before we say goodbye

In summary, representing a character outside your cultural experience requires respect, diligence, and a lot of elbow grease. But the result? A story that speaks to a broader audience, offering windows into new worlds and mirrors reflecting diverse experiences. What could be more rewarding?

Remember, your pen (or keyboard) is mighty. Use it wisely, with care and respect.

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