Dialogue Publishing Blog 
How to turn fact into fiction -- posted by Susan Lutz Hamilton
Mar 30, 2006 • 12:41 pm (EST)
I have found that the easiest way to start changing fact into fiction is to take a scene and add one detail or image that isn't included and then to write what comes.
Often remembrances are dominated by the people involved or the situational circumstances. The imagery associated with the event isn't top of mind. Deliberately inserting an image or detail is often enough to evoke new images that will add a layer of richness and depth to the work.
Think sense of smell, audible sounds or quality of light to help your characters open up and take on a life of their own.
Other ways to begin:
-Change names
-Alter physical descriptions
-Find a jumping off point, start with a real scenario and then imagine
-Play the ?what if? game
-Play the ?what?s the worst that could happen? game
-Borrow from what you know, add imagery and details to bring the story to life for a reader
Does this mean the writer shouldn't write about their experiences? No! Use elements of real life to add authenticity. If you know a lot about skiing make that a passion for a character. If you know a lot about fine art perhaps your protagonist can be a museum curator.
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