Otherppl with Brad Listi Exploring Hybrid Literary Forms
Jul 20, 2025
Matthew Clark Davison, author and founder of The Lab, teams up with Alice LaPlante, bestselling author and writing educator. They dive into the dynamic world of hybrid literary forms, encouraging writers to experiment boldly across genres. Their conversation is filled with practical exercises to break creative blocks and emphasizes the blend of personal storytelling with humor and pain. They also discuss the balance between creativity and strategy, promoting accessibility in writing while navigating the unique challenges of crafting compelling narratives.
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Read Widely Before Experimenting
- Writers should read widely across fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry before experimenting with hybrid forms.
- This broad reading base helps develop a working knowledge of genres essential for successful cross-genre writing.
Passion Trumps Formal Knowledge
- Passion and obsession can drive a writer's originality regardless of formal training.
- Good writing transcends traditional or new forms; originality isn't guaranteed by breaking form alone.
Experiment Freely, Revise Strategically
- Experiment freely in early drafts without worrying about commercial viability or audience.
- In revision, use strategic thinking to focus and consider reader satisfaction and marketability.
