Autistic Culture | Where autism meets identity! Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)
An episode that celebrates neurodivergent creativity in writing.
In this episode, we dive into one of Angela's favorite topics – writing – and explore how to approach creative projects through a neurodivergent perspective. We break down the writing process from an autistic perspective, how book mapping can be a powerful tool and why having systems in place for writing a book is just as essential as the systems autistic people rely on for everyday life!
Here’s what’s write around the corner:
* In this episode, we dive into Angela's writing journey – from crafting stories at ten years old, to working for the government (and unintentionally developing a special interest in espionage), to founding Difference Press and reflecting on her journey to where she is today.
* We chat about our exclusive virtual writing circle on the paid Substack – where we share weekly prompts and write not for cash, but because writing is cathartic and life-affirming (though we wouldn’t say no to a book deal). Sign up to join the fun – your creative soul (and inbox) will thank you!
* We dive into how the writing process can be a game-changer for hyper-verbal autistic individuals, helping us find our thoughts, gain our footing, and communicate ideas more clearly – because sometimes putting pen to paper is the best way to organize that mental marathon.
* Our hosts discuss how scripting is a core part of the neurodivergent experience and how it can be a powerful tool in shaping our writing process – because sometimes having a script is the key to making sense of the chaos.
* We also dive into how hyper-focus can be a game-changer for the writing process (and how it’s the secret behind Stephen King's impressive book count). When we’re in the zone, there's no stopping us!
* We discuss writing as a powerful form of creative expression for neurodivergent individuals, and how it can be incredibly cathartic to write about our special interests, no matter who’s reading. Sometimes, the writing’s for us, not the audience!
* Our hosts also chat about "discovering your author mojo" – which, let’s be real, is just figuring out what conditions make your autistic meat body thrive while writing. Because when the setting’s right, the words flow!
* We also tackle how PDA autism and demand avoidance can sometimes stall our writing projects (ugh), and share some clever workarounds to push past those barriers and get the words flowing again!
* Want to dive deeper into creative writing as an autistic individual? Join our writer's circle by becoming a paid Substack member today!
“If I could just plug a word processor into my brain, I would generate book upon book like Stephen King, but it’s the matter of using my inferior meat body to do this.” - Matt Lowry LPP
“This happens with a lot of us - our special interests become a career. Which I think is good, but when it becomes a thing you’re making money on, it changes how you interact with it.”- Dr Angela Kingdon
“If you want to write more, if you want to be more committed, the way you get better is by writing more. That’s the whole secret.” - Dr Angela Kingdon
“First of all, there’s no such thing as a good writer. There is probably such a thing as a bad writer, but everybody has their own taste. But even if you genuinely suck and we would all agree you have a million problems with your writing, you’re barely literate. If you find it enjoyable and fulfilling, write anyway.” - Dr Angela Kingdon
“My take on it is that, while we have a lot of thoughts inside our brain, they’re nebulous and not really defined. But when we are forced to go through with the act of translating it to communicate it to another person, that’s where we truly find our idea.” - Matt Lowry LPP
“Fan fiction has to be 80% neurodivergent. There’s just no other way, so. ” - Dr Angela Kingdon
Have you felt the ups and downs of the creative process? In today’s episode, Matt and Angela dive into their neurodivergent approaches to writing, sharing the unexpected insights and challenges along the way! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners. Which moments from their journey resonate with your own creative experiences?
Resources:
Join our virtual writing circle. Details here: https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/do-you-have-a-neurodivergent-narrative
*Related Episodes:
Cassandra in Reverse Book Club (Paid Access)
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