I write what feels real. I write things that are informed both by my own experience and by actual history.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of authenticity in writing, drawing from personal experiences and historical truths.
N. K. Jemisin's quote expresses a commitment to writing that resonates with truth and realism. She underscores the belief that authentic storytelling is rooted in both personal experience and factual history, suggesting that these elements contribute to the depth and richness of literary work. This approach not only enhances the credibility of the narrative but also connects readers to the universal human experience.
In practice
In a motivational speech about creativity, one could use this quote to inspire aspiring writers.
Magic is the mysteries into which not everyone is so lucky, or unlucky, as to be initiated. It can be affected by belief, the whims of the unseen, harsh language. And it is not. Supposed. To make. Sense. In fact, I think it's coolest when it doesn't.
I don't really understand why so many fantasy writers choose to focus on worlds that just seem strangely denuded. But to them, I guess it doesn't seem strange. And I guess that's their privilege. It isn't mine.
Reactionary movements can't sustain themselves unless they find something new to catch and burn on.
There's a thriving field of self-published stuff in, particularly, black fiction. I don't know that other groups of people of color have that same recourse.
Fantasy is fantasy. It's fiction. It's not meant to be a textbook. I don't believe in letting research overwhelm the fiction. That's a danger of science fiction in particular, as opposed to fantasy. A lot of writers forget that what they're doing is supposed to be art.
I've always believed that as an artist, as a writer, you need a lot of contact with other people to make your art good.
A true artist is not one who is inspired, but one who inspires others.
Not all poetry wants to be storytelling. And not all storytelling wants to be poetry. But great storytellers and great poets share something in common: They had something to say, and did.
It's wonderful when music is intellectually stimulating. But ultimately it has to be a visceral experience.
We, as film-makers, are privileged. We can make people cry or laugh. We can make them think and feel. It is a great privilege and a great responsibility.
When I was building the Vietnam Memorial, I never once asked the veterans what it was like in the war, because from my point of view, you don't pry into other people's business.
I am not a fashion victim. Fashion is my victim.
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