In this week’s Storylines, we’re talking about why so many of us get stuck in research and struggle to make the move into writing.
Research can feel like solid ground. There is always another document to find, another date to confirm, another trail to follow.
Writing asks something different of us. It asks us to leave the safety of gathering and begin shaping the story — to risk interpretation, voice, and emotional truth.
So this week, we’ll look at what keeps us circling the research and how we can begin moving, gently and honestly, toward the page.
I found this storylines to be very moving and motivating, Lynn.
If I don’t write her story she will stay in the research folder, for ever, or more likely until my family throws her story and her away.
Thanks for making me think about it.
Pj
I’m glad that I saw this encouragement. I have been a bit intimidated by the strong backing in Genealogist’s Standards in the book itself, some classes, etc. I am probably over-reacting to the emphasis to the need to be as complete in research as is possible. To search all possible sources, along with the cross-checking. And on the other hand often hearing that genealogists can never be finished. So I keep researching. I made a poster with your statement that stories are important. Thanks again.
This is my favorite episode. You nailed it! It is like you have seen inside my head. Thank you for the motivation!
I have written one short story and it took me a long time. But it was extremely important to me to tell my husband’s biological grandmother’s story. She was a victim of the holocaust (my husband didn’t know he was part Jewish until he was in his 40s).
First two sentences:
Beautiful clothes, nice house, travel and a place in society. This was a life our family enjoyed…. until they didn’t.
With the smell of Fall in the air, everyone is excited, after months of preparation, the wagons are ready to roll.