On the importance of Opinion

Opinions are like assholes, everyone has one and they usually stink.

The above quote (old enough, almost, to be called an adage) doesn't hold opinions in very high esteem. The irony, of course, is that it is expressing an opinion while it is doing it.

There is one thing true about the statement, however. We do all have opinions.

Part of your writing is going to be informed by your opinions. And that is right and good, because despite what some think, I think it's a good thing to have opinions.

Having an opinion means that you're thinking. Now not all opinions are going to be based on actual facts, and that can be problematic, but even this can be understood and forgiven. The problem comes in when we cleave to our opinions so strongly that nothing--not even a sound argument--can shake our opinions.

As I said before, your writing will contain a lot of your personal opinion and that is a good thing. Writing a novel can take anywhere from one month to several years to write. Spending that much time on something should mean something. Pouring your heart and soul into a project should mean something. Part of that meaning is usually expressed through your own world view.

All this is good, but it can go too far. You must never forget that your number one job is to tell a story. The people didn't come for a lecture on the over-reach of government or your stance on abortion. They came to be entertained. They are looking to you for a story.

Opinion is great when used as part of the tapestry of your book. It shouldn't become ubiquitous. That certainly would stink.