Navigating the Path to Writing a Dog’s Tale

Writing a story from the perspective of a domestic dog can be a fascinating and rewarding project. However, discussions around your motivations may sometimes paint you in light you did not intend. If you've been called furry or associated with anthropomorphic animal enthusiasts, it might be challenging to navigate these situations. Here are some tips and considerations to guide you through the process without letting unhelpful critiques halt your creative journey.

Understanding What Anthropomorphism Is

The line between simple interspecies interaction and anthropomorphic storytelling can sometimes be blurry. Dogs barking back and forth may not be considered anthropomorphic, but if they are acting or dressing like humans, or human speech is involved, that’s a different story. It’s important to define the line for yourself and share that definition with those around you.

Choosing to Write What You Want

Regardless of the interpretation of your story, it’s crucial to stay true to your vision. Whether your character is a loyal pet, a warrior, or a literary genius, write what inspires you. The characters can be real, or they can be imaginative extensions of your desires and dreams. Literature that resonates deeply can come from a variety of perspectives and forms, and the best stories are those that connect with the reader on a personal level.

Dealing with Criticism and Unsupportive Individuals

When friends, family, or colleagues make derogatory or dismissive comments about your writing choice, it’s natural to feel upset. Here are some ways to handle the situation constructively:

Silent Writing: Write the book, but keep it a secret for now. Only share your work with people who will celebrate your creativity. This option gives you the satisfaction of completing your project while minimizing conflict.

Selective Sharing: Share your plans only with those who will genuinely support you. This helps to maintain a positive environment and can inspire others to share your journey.

Confrontation with Comprehension: If you decide to confront the critics, it doesn’t need to be confrontational. Approach the conversation with humor and genuine curiosity. You can share your favorite books, like The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein, A Dog’s Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron, or The Call of the Wild by Jack London. Explain your perspective and the intentions behind your story. Offer to answer any questions calmly and respectfully.

Open Dialogue: If their comments are rooted in genuine concerns or misunderstanding, engage in a dialogue. Ask them what bothers them about your book’s subject matter. Carefully probe for their reasons, offering reassurances and explaining your approach. For example, you might say, What is it that concerns you about my book’s subject matter? Do you just not like dogs, or is there some other reason?

Conclusion

Your decision to write a book from a domestic dog’s perspective is deeply personal and meaningful. It’s important to navigate any challenges with care and understanding. You are the author of your story, and your creative choices should reflect your true passion and vision. By staying true to your intentions and engaging constructively with the world around you, you can create a story that resonates with readers and allows you to fulfill your literary dreams.