Writing As A Conduit To Change: By Benjamin Rose

Writing As A Conduit To Change:

As a neurodivergent writer (I have Aspergers), a writer recovering from addiction (there seem to be many in the writing community), and a writer with PTSD, penning novels and short stories is both therapeutic and enjoyable. If it ever becomes lucrative I’ll count myself lucky indeed.

Many readers look for an escape from their troubles by diving into a fantasy world. I have never personally dug that riff. I write novels and short stories based on my reality and the reality of others I have met in my journeys. My reason is this: If I present the cold hard reality of life in an entertaining way, then perhaps the reader gains new insight and a new perspective. Once that occurs, the social needle might move a fraction. That is all I truly hope to accomplish. 

Certainly money would be welcome, not living hand to mouth, having a small condo overlooking the gulf, a Can-Am Spyder, maybe a new laptop; but if I move that needle even a hair it will be worth it even without the other stuff. I write to effect a small change, and I write to reveal the truth as I see it.

There are beta readers who have suggested that some matters discussed in my writing could foment social revolution and teach people how to take back that which the system has stolen from them. I don’t know about all of that. It is true that I discuss in detail the fine art of hustling and grifting, but I also try to show the consequences. I write about characters who are alcoholics, too. Far be it for me to suggest that my readers drink to excess.

In the end game, I write about real world issues and real world solutions because that’s all I know.  I’ve never lived in a world of dragons and wizards and a school for sorcerers with porcine papillomavirus.  I’ve never lived in outer-space or met a unicorn. That jazz has never excited me because it doesn’t help me move forward. I also don’t abuse sappy happily-ever-after endings. I’ve yet to encounter one.

I believe that literature should serve a purpose. That purpose is to effect change via the reader. If we started children on the classics and encouraged them to stay based in reality, then maybe one day our whole societal fabric would improve. The hour grows late for old men such as I, but perhaps something I write will help make the future better.
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Dare I dream?

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Look for Benjamin's new book - Everybody But Us on the BRP website as well as his new short story in the BRP Anthology - It's The Holidays.