Stephanie Wytovich, an expert in writing poetry and breaking free of constraints in poetry, talks about how to stop self-censoring your writing and share the deepest aspects of yourself with your readers. She also discusses the importance of allowing poetry to break out from fitting in a box, the process of putting together a poetry collection, and balancing writing for therapy and writing for the readers. Wytovich emphasizes the need for self-advocacy in the writing industry and encourages writers to prioritize their passion for writing over winning awards.
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Quick takeaways
Break the constrained stereotypes of poetry and write authentically, embracing genre cross-overs and unconventional themes.
Use writing as a therapeutic outlet for expressing deep emotions and processing difficult experiences, encouraging authenticity and challenging self-censorship.
Connect with supportive communities like the Horror Writers Association to benefit from resources, networking opportunities, and authentic connections.
Deep dives
Writing poetry in the dark: Breaking constrained stereotypes
Stephanie Whiteovich discusses the importance of breaking the constrained stereotypes of what poetry is. She emphasizes the need to push boundaries and write authentically, exploring genre cross-overs and unconventional themes. Stephanie shares her personal journey with poetry and how it served as a therapeutic outlet for expressing deep emotions and processing difficult experiences. She encourages writers to be authentic, embrace vulnerability, and challenge self-censorship. Stephanie also highlights the supportive and welcoming nature of the horror writing community and the benefits of being part of organizations like the Horror Writers Association.
The power of horror as a writing genre
Stephanie Whiteovich explains her love for horror as a genre and how it provides a platform for having difficult conversations. She discusses how horror allows us to explore dark and intense emotions in a safe and creative way. Stephanie shares her personal connection to horror and how it has shaped her writing. She discusses the evolution of the horror genre and the expanding definition of what horror can encompass, from monsters as metaphors to the exploration of social issues. Stephanie encourages writers to embrace the uniqueness of horror and challenge traditional labeling and categorization.
Finding your people in the horror writing community
Stephanie Whiteovich highlights the importance of finding a supportive community as a writer, specifically in the horror genre. She shares her positive experiences with the Horror Writers Association (HWA) and emphasizes the benefits of connecting with like-minded writers. Stephanie discusses the various resources and opportunities provided by the HWA, such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and educational initiatives. She encourages writers to engage with organizations and conferences related to their genre, as they provide networking opportunities, educational resources, and authentic connections with fellow writers and professionals.
Breaking self-censorship and pushing boundaries in writing
Stephanie Whiteovich discusses the challenges of self-censorship and the importance of pushing personal boundaries as a writer. She encourages writers to challenge their comfort zones and explore topics and themes that may initially make them uncomfortable. Stephanie shares her own experiences with crossing personal boundaries and how it led to personal and artistic growth. She advises writers to be authentic and true to their vision, rather than focusing on conforming to specific genres or award criteria. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and building authentic relationships within the writing community to support and champion one's work.
The journey of horror beyond traditional boundaries
Stephanie Whiteovich discusses the evolving landscape of horror and its movement beyond traditional boundaries. She explores the fusion of horror with other genres, such as romance, science fiction, and comedy, highlighting the power of genre cross-overs in creating unique and engaging storytelling. Stephanie talks about the changing perception of horror in the publishing industry, with more recognition and acceptance of diverse and unconventional horror narratives. She encourages writers to embrace the complexity of horror, challenge preconceived notions, and engage in conversations about the genre's potential for cultural and social exploration.
How can you stop self-censoring your writing and share the deepest aspects of yourself with your readers? How can you break poetry out of the restraints that many try to put upon it? Stephanie Wytovich talks about these things and more. In the intro, 5 trends that are shifting the future of publishing with Monica […]