Isaac Marion
All of them. If I couldn't identify with them, I couldn't write them. I don't know that I've ever heard of a person, no matter how different from me--no matter how "evil"--who I couldn't relate to on some level. I think I've had just about every possible thought at some point; what delineates me from everyone else is which of those thoughts I feed and allow to grow.
I think morally neutral, wide-open empathy is important for writers, because if you refuse to give honest consideration to the ideas of people you disagree with--if you refuse to admit their thoughts exist in you somewhere--you won't be able to write them convincingly. It'll be like copying phrases from a language you don't understand. You'll be limited to stock characters because you can't create new ones.
I'm actually kind of surprised this ability of mental/moral mimicry doesn't lead more writers into lives of crime. Where exactly is the line between understanding Hitler and agreeing with him?
I think morally neutral, wide-open empathy is important for writers, because if you refuse to give honest consideration to the ideas of people you disagree with--if you refuse to admit their thoughts exist in you somewhere--you won't be able to write them convincingly. It'll be like copying phrases from a language you don't understand. You'll be limited to stock characters because you can't create new ones.
I'm actually kind of surprised this ability of mental/moral mimicry doesn't lead more writers into lives of crime. Where exactly is the line between understanding Hitler and agreeing with him?
More Answered Questions
Sharon Bidwell
asked
Isaac Marion:
Will you ever produce a paperback with a UK distribution? The reasons I'm asking is I dearly want but I've exchanged most of my hardbacks for paperbacks lately (house moving experiences), prefer books to have a uniform look, & postage on top to the UK prohibits my buying as (if it doesn't go missing, a sad and real possibility) the book may also incur import and post office charges (also a painful experience).
Sydney
asked
Isaac Marion:
??not a question?? Just wanted to say I am a fan of your work. You made zombies truly inspiring and intriguing to read about. Your use of words is beautifully put together and I really treasure Warm Bodies... it's a book I will never forget and it will always be on my shelf waiting to be read again and again. :)
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