In times of political, social, and cultural upheaval, writing can feel both urgent and overwhelming. The weight of the moment presses on us, and yet, as writers, we have the unique ability—and responsibility—to document, reflect, and interpret these shifts in ways that resonate beyond the present.
Recently, while reading The Overlooked Americans: The Resilience of Our Rural Towns and What It Means for Our Country by Elizabeth Currid-Halkett, I noticed the author made sweeping generalizations about cultural shifts tied to the first Trump presidency.
While these insights might have felt compelling at the time, the drastic changes brought about by the second presidency challenge many of her conclusions. It was a reminder of the risks of anchoring one’s writing too heavily in immediate political contexts without considering the broader, shifting landscape.
To ensure your writing stands the test of time, consider these guiding principles:
- Anchor in Timeless Themes: Rather than generalizing immediate trends, focus on universal human experiences or enduring questions that remain relevant across eras. This allows your writing to hold its weight even as circumstances evolve.
- Seek Complexity, Not Simplicity: Resist the urge to flatten the narrative into binaries of good versus bad or right versus wrong. Instead, explore the nuances, contradictions, and layers of the issues at hand. Complexity invites readers to think deeply and engage critically.
- Balance Emotion with Perspective: While passion fuels powerful writing, perspective ensures its longevity. Step back to consider the broader implications of the events you’re writing about. How do they fit into historical patterns? What lessons might they offer for the future?
- Write for the Reader of Tomorrow: Imagine someone reading your work decades from now. What context will they need to understand this moment? What questions might they ask? Writing with an eye toward posterity can help you craft work that transcends the immediate.
As writers, we are both witnesses and participants in the unfolding story of our time. By approaching our craft with intention and care, we can create work that not only captures the present but also informs and inspires readers of the future.