The Daily Stoic Elliot Ackerman on Writing, Military Service, and Polarization | People Do Well When They Can
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Mar 9, 2022 
Elliot Ackerman, an acclaimed author and former Marine, shares insights from his life and writing journey. He discusses how military service influences creativity, emphasizing the psychological complexities involved. Ackerman delves into the consequences of polarization in society, linking it to his experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan. He also sheds light on the importance of empathy in storytelling and the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers. With a focus on resilience amid chaos, his reflections on duty and personal growth resonate deeply.
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Ackerman's Path to Writing
- Elliot Ackerman grew up around writers, which made writing feel attainable.
- Despite this, he initially felt hesitant to share his writing until he achieved validation.
The Agency of Writing
- Writing allows for private failure, unlike acting, offering greater agency.
- However, this agency also places full responsibility on the writer for their work's quality.
Ackerman's Motivation to Enlist
- Ackerman's military service was partly inspired by his upbringing overseas and a desire to serve.
- 9/11 significantly altered his expectations of a "peacetime military" career.
