As writers, we find inspiration all around us. However, the adage “write what you know” can feel pretty limiting. I once heard the alternative said for an approach to fiction writing––“write what you want to know.” This variation allows us to expand our knowledge base and write outside of our own lifestyle. It champions writers to put in the work to learn and authentically capture things outside our personal experiences.
The world is a big place. And we can extend our net of inspiration broadly across cultures. When we embrace diversity, we can transport our readers into unique perspectives and new worlds. But it is crucial to do it right––which means doing it respectfully.
Why you may want to include cultures outside your own
Through diverse storytelling, we can challenge stereotypes, broaden perspectives, and celebrate the tapestry of human experiences. Pretty amazing, that our words have the power to impact so much. By including other cultures in fiction, writers can contribute to a more inclusive, empathetic, and understanding society. Benefits include:
Representation and Diversity: Including other cultures helps break away from the dominance of mainstream narratives. By featuring characters from various cultural backgrounds, writers can promote inclusivity and challenge the notion of a single “default” cultural perspective.
Broadening Horizons: Provide readers with a window into different ways of life, traditions, and belief systems. Expand the reader’s understanding of the world and foster empathy and appreciation for diverse perspectives. While also cultivating a sense of curiosity, open-mindedness, and tolerance.
Breaking Stereotypes: By portraying multidimensional characters with rich cultural backgrounds, writers can challenge preconceived notions and showcase the complexity and individuality of people from various cultures. Thus, promoting a more nuanced understanding of different cultures.
Engaging Global Audiences: In an increasingly interconnected world, including other cultures in fiction can attract a wider readership. By appealing to a global audience, writers have the chance to foster cross-cultural understanding and dialogue.
Authenticity and Realism: By accurately representing different cultures, writers can create more believable and relatable characters and settings. This attention to detail adds depth and, elevates the overall reading experience.
Celebrating Heritage: Showcase the beauty and richness of different cultural heritages. This celebration of cultural diversity can foster a sense of pride and appreciation for one’s own heritage while promoting cross-cultural appreciation.
How to do it right
Sensitivity will become your best friend when including a culture outside your own. Always approach representation with respect. I always stress the importance of writing with intention, but if your intention for including another culture is for exotic decoration or to profit from someone else’s cultural heritage, I’d caution against using it in your story.
But if you have the right level of understanding, respect, and permission, including another culture can benefit your novel!
Let’s get ready for research
Thorough research is crucial. Put the time into it to develop a true and deep understanding of the culture you’re including into you work of fiction. Learn about the history, traditions, customs, and values of the culture you wish to represent.
The best ways to do this is by reading books, watching documentaries, seeking firsthand accounts, and engaging with individuals from that culture. Primary sources will always be your best bet!
Unsure where to get started with research? Try this!
Starting the research process for writing a book with different cultures can be an exciting and enriching experience. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Define the Culture: Identify the specific culture you want to include in your book. Consider the time period, geographic locations, and specific communities.
Gather Reference Materials: Start by collecting reference materials such as books, articles, documentaries, and academic papers that provide insights into the cultures you are researching. Look for reputable sources written by experts or individuals with firsthand experience of the culture.
Engage in Cultural Immersion: Attend cultural events, festivals, or exhibitions related to the culture. Visit museums, cultural centers, or neighborhoods with a significant presence of the culture you’re studying.
Seek Authentic Voices: Authentic voices can provide firsthand accounts, personal stories, and unique insights. Look for books, memoirs, or interviews written or conducted by individuals from the culture you’re researching.
Understand Historical Context: Research the historical background in order to contextualize traditions, social structures, and belief systems. Consider historical events, influences, and migrations that have shaped the culture over time.
Customs and Etiquette: Study traditions and pay attention to social norms, gestures, taboos, and traditional practices. Look closely at any unique behaviors, interactions, and rituals.
Explore Art, Music, and Literature: These creative expressions often reflect the values, beliefs, and aesthetics of a culture, which can display the underlying depths of a culture.
Remember that research is an ongoing process, and you may continue to deepen your knowledge and understanding throughout the writing journey. Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and create a rich, authentic portrayal of the cultures you include in your book.
Avoid Stereotypes
Whether we like to admit it, we are all aware of certain racial or cultural stereotypes. This happens when a single culture is placed in a vacuum. Yet, these harmful stereotypes are often alleviated by sufficient research.
Stereotypes can also limit the richness of character development. Challenge yourself to move beyond clichés and portray diverse, multidimensional characters from different cultures. Avoid generalizations and remember that individuals within any culture are not monolithic. Characters have unique personalities, dreams, flaws, and aspirations!
Seek Feedback
Understand that your own bias may impact your interpretation of culture. Be open to feedback, correction, and critique from individuals belonging to the culture you are writing about. Remember that cultural appropriation should be avoided, and it is essential to approach your work with integrity and a commitment to accurate representation.
Seek permission or guidance from individuals belonging to that culture. If you receive feedback that your portrayal is inaccurate or offensive, be open to learning and revising your work accordingly.
Consider collaborating with individuals from the culture you aim to represent. Their insights and lived experiences can be invaluable in crafting authentic narratives. Sensitively seek out beta readers, sensitivity readers, or cultural consultants who can provide feedback on your work.
Language and Dialogue
Language, like art or music, can illustrate cultural values. When incorporating other languages in your writing, especially if you don’t speak the language, be cautious. Use translations sparingly and provide a context for readers to understand the meaning without resorting to excessive explanations.
When writing dialogue, ensure that characters from different cultures speak in a manner that reflects their unique linguistic backgrounds, but avoid using broken English or accent-heavy dialects that can be construed as offensive.
Sensible Cultural Integration
Integrate cultural elements organically into your story, weaving them into the narrative fabric rather than using them as mere decorative details. Show how culture influences characters’ lives, beliefs, and decisions, but be cautious not to tokenize cultural aspects. Culture should be an integral part of the story, contributing to character development and plot progression.
Thank you for reading! I find topics such as these of essential importance and I always champion respect for other cultures within all writing (even fictional cultures), but I also wish to emphasize the importance of OwnVoices and promoting the works of historically marginalized writers.
Newbie to Novelist 