Major Project

Abstract

It is generally accepted that writing can be a cathartic experience, used in psychological therapy or simply to help process emotional situations. But what is it about writing – specifically creative writing, or story – that “helps humans adjust to the messy and often disturbing reality of living” (Hamadache, 30 Nov, 2020)?

Ficto-criticism is writing that “utilise[s] fact and fiction to explore and analyse ideas.” (Muecke, Mother’s Day Protests, xvii). This paper will engage in a ficto-critical exploration of both the value and the impact for writer and reader of writing the mess of life and what it is about story that generates these effects.

In this practice-led research project, my own creative non-fiction story is meshed with knowledge gained from interviews, survey and a review of the literature across the fields of psychology, cultural studies and creative writing.

The conclusion drawn is that, while not necessarily always positive – indeed there is some work on potential dangers (Gibbs) and limitations (Richardson) – writing shame or trauma or pain creatively cannot help but have an effect on both writer and reader as we interact with text in an almost bodily way.

There is excellent literature dealing with the interactivity of writing and reading (Lee; Gibbs). We have the grounding work of Affect Theory to understand how and why writing can affect us (Atkinson & Richardson; Gregg & Seigworth). We have the example set by Aboriginal Australian peoples of using story to teach, to understand and to grow in respect and wisdom (Quayle & Sonn).

This paper will discuss all these contributions. However, I am yet to discover in the literature any specific examples demonstrating through the very process of their writing exactly how and why creative writing is beneficial to navigating shame and trauma. This paper aims to help fill that gap.