Happy Wednesday Scribblers, today I’d like to talk about ‘ownvoice’ writing. ‘Ownvoice’ writing refers to books or stories that are written by authors who share the same identity or experience as the characters they write about. An example is a novel about a transgender person written by a transgender author, or a book about a refugee or migrant written by a refugee or migrant. ‘Ownvoice’ writing is not a genre, but a way of highlighting the authenticity and diversity of voices throughout the literary world. ‘Ownvoice’ writing is not about gatekeeping topics from being written by non ‘ownvoice’ authors.
Why is ‘ownvoice’ writing important for readers?
‘Ownvoice’ writing can challenge stereotypes and biases in a way that non ‘ownvoice’ writing can. Many books that feature diverse characters are written by authors who do not belong to the group they are writing about (this is not a bad thing, in fact, doing so keeps stories reflective of society.). However, showing diverse characters in this way may rely on stereotypes, clichés, or inaccurate portrayals of those characters. Leading some in these communities to feel frustrated, unheard, and unseen. This can reinforce harmful assumptions and prejudices about marginalized people and erase the complexity and diversity of their experience. Non ‘ownvoice’ writing may also show these groups in an unrealistic or unnatural way that can be harmful to these people. ‘Ownvoice’ writing, on the other hand, can offer a more nuanced and realistic representation of diverse characters, and challenge the dominant narratives that often marginalize these communities.
‘Ownvoice’ writing can promote empathy and understanding. Reading ‘ownvoice’ books can help readers learn more about different cultures, perspectives, and experiences that they may not be familiar with, or that they may have misconceptions about. By reading stories that are told from the inside, readers can gain a deeper insight into the joys, struggles, hopes, and fears of diverse characters, and empathize with their emotions and situations in a real and honest way. ‘Ownvoice’ writing can also help readers discover the common humanity that connects the reader with people who are different from them and fosters a sense of respect and appreciation for diversity.
‘Ownvoice’ writing can empower and inspire. Reading ‘ownvoice’ books can also have a positive impact on the readers who share the same identity or experience as the characters. For many marginalized readers, finding ‘ownvoice’ books can be a rare and precious opportunity to see themselves reflected in literature, and to feel validated and affirmed by their own stories. Celebrating their community. ‘Ownvoice’ writing can also provide role models and inspiration for marginalized readers, who can see characters overcome challenges, achieve goals, go on grand adventures, find and experience love, and celebrate their identity. ‘Ownvoice’ writing can encourage marginalized readers to tell their own stories and to contribute to the diversity of voices in literature.
‘Ownvoice’ writing is not only important for readers but also for writers, publishers, and society at large. By supporting and promoting ‘ownvoice’ writing, we can create a more inclusive and diverse literary landscape, where everyone’s stories are welcomed, valued, and heard. ‘Ownvoice’ writing can enrich our reading experience, broaden our horizons, and transform our world by bringing forward writers and novels that we might not have found or experienced otherwise.
Until next time, have a great week.
