My No-Write List

Yes, I actually keep a list of topics and tropes that I’m not going to write about! As a reminder, the list includes things that I feel are already being over-done or in some cases have become toxic. So what’s on the list these days?

Vampires, werewolves, unicorns, fairies. I adore fairies, but still find these creatures over-exposed. I would have to have a really unique concept. I still love hearing about traditional lore from other cultures, but I wouldn’t try to write it myself, since I’m not from the culture.

Schools for witches and wizards. It’s a fun concept that’s just been done too often.

Assassins, especially teen assassins. As an educator, I don’t see this theme as offering a positive future for our youth.

Tournaments and contests that are drenched in blood. Again, especially where teens are forced competitors. See the above rationale.

Dystopian settings. A little too close to home right now, honestly. I wouldn’t write about a pandemic or plague, either. Although, as a writer, I’m certainly storing up impressions and observations.

Pirates and bandits, especially drunken pirates. I just don’t find it funny.

Slavery being excused or condoned. Same with any sort of discrimination or harassment. These would be features of the villains, not something my protagonist would exhibit.

Violence as an appropriate response to ordinary situations. I know that sounds vague, but our media and stories are really dependent on violence. In the past, I’ve had characters solve their problems with the sword (or gun) and didn’t think much about it. These days, I try to use my writing to show alternatives to bloodshed.

Well, did anything on my No-Write List surprise you?

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