The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers

Writing The Other And Self-Publishing in South Africa With Ashling McCarthy

10 snips
Dec 2, 2024
Ashling McCarthy is a diverse South African author, artist, and anthropologist whose work challenges cultural stereotypes. In this engaging conversation, she shares how her anthropological background informs her writing, emphasizing the importance of empathy when portraying different cultures. Ashling discusses the unique aspects of self-publishing in South Africa, including the complexities of selling direct and the need for innovative marketing strategies. She also highlights the beauty and struggles within rural communities, stressing the significance of culturally sensitive storytelling.
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ANECDOTE

Unexpected Writing Journey

  • Ashling McCarthy's writing journey began unexpectedly while running a non-profit.
  • Her experiences with rural communities and wildlife crime inspired her Poacher's Moon Crime Series.
INSIGHT

Anthropology in Writing

  • Anthropology informs Ashling McCarthy's writing by emphasizing empathy and understanding diverse perspectives.
  • This helps portray characters' motivations beyond simple good vs. evil.
ADVICE

Researching Diverse Perspectives

  • Research and interviews are crucial for writing diverse perspectives.
  • Triangulate information by consulting multiple sources to avoid bias.
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