As writers, or aspiring writers, we have all been told to “write what you know”, but unless you have done literally everything, this could limit what you can write about. And let’s face it, unless you really are an elf, wizard, or vampire – Fantasy writers are just out of luck when it comes to this rule.

However, I don’t think  - personally – “writing what you know” should be taken strictly literally. I believe it’s more a…guideline. I embrace the concept of “write what you’re EXPOSED to.” Being a writer gives you a reasonable “excuse” to explore all those unusual hobbies you’ve ever been curious about. Not to mention it gives you a reason to use a lot of that “useless trivia” floating around in your head.  All those bits of information can add depth and dimension to your writing.

But, how do you explore all those things? I mean, besides winning the lottery and having more money than you know what to do with? There are several ways – live or work in a library and read everything – or become a teacher and have access to that body of knowledge. You can be one of those geniuses who can literally be anything – like the TV show The Pretender. Or you can be a “Jack/Jane-of-all-Trades”.  Of these options, the “of-all –trades” is both the best and least desirable option. It does give you access to all kinds of experience, but it tends to lead to struggling for cash.  Trust me on this one. I know from experience. I’ve working in banking, broadcasting, education, entertainment, legal, and now medical.  You know what that makes me? Dangerous.

Yes, I’m one of those “dangerous” people who knows a little bit about a lot of things. For a writer, that kind of “danger” can be both a plus and a minus.  It’s a plus because you can put so many details into your story. A minus because it’s easy to get those details wrong when you have a marginal knowledge/exposure. Don’t think you can get away with it either – fans will pick your material apart. So, how do you balance this without joining the circus? Ask for help.

Many writers, me included, rely on research, experience, and a group of well-heeled “experts” who are friends or acquaintances. There’s nothing like being able to send your piece to a real rocket science to backstop your hard SF or to a medical professional to check your medical thriller.  That way you appear to know more than you do.

So, moral of the story? Why write what you know, when you can write what everyone else knows. Make use of what you have, you never know when it’ll come in handy. This applies to available knowledge bases like libraries and the internet or your Day Job,  as well as friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, etc.  If someone knows something you don’t – and need to – get to know them. You won’t regret it – and neither will your writing.