Last week I blogged about using real life in place of research. So I figured that I’d write about things I’d like to write about but need to research first.
- Archery – I’ve always been fascinated with archery, and I recently learned that I can take lessons not to far from my house for a pretty reasonable price. I may have also researched where I can buy my own equipment (hint, nowhere near my house). Bows and arrows seem like an ideal weapon for survivors in a zombie novel. They can also be just as useful in historical fiction.
- World War I – When it comes to world wars, there’s a whole lot to be found online about World War II. Not so much about World War I. There are a couple free, online classes on the subject that caught my eye a few months ago. It’s just a matter of finding time in my schedule.
- Security/Police/Military Protocols – I really enjoy writing characters in the military or who work as security personnel. While I’m pretty familiar with EMS/Fire first responders, I’m not too knowledgeable about law enforcement. The Sisters in Crime writing organization puts on a police academy for writers to learn from professionals. I’m hoping to go to it in the next few years.
- Self-Defense – This goes hand-in-hand with #3. I participated in karate years ago, but I’ve forgotten most of it. So I’d like to learn practical techniques for self-defense that my characters can use. It’ll be a great way to get me away from my desk and help my writing too.
What kind of research have you done? Is there anything you’ve been itching to learn?
I definitely agree that this type of practical experience can be used as research for writing. Good luck with these classes!
Thanks! I’m looking forward to them.
Ohhh my goodness I am so jealous of that archery class!!
I took karate for a couple years as well, and found it extremely useful for writing purposes. I had some great instructors who were willing to stay after class with me to choreograph fight scenes or answer *very* strange questions without once doubting my sanity. Good times 🙂
I was so excited when I found out it’s so close. I’m crossing my fingers that I’ll get the chance to take lessons this summer.
And that’s awesome you had such great instructors. I feel like it’s sometimes a challenge for writers to find people to answer questions without thinking we’ve completely lost our minds. 🙂
So true! “Hey that’s an interesting self defense move… How would you do it if your attacker had an extra set of arms?”
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