I’ve never thought of myself as a nonfiction writer. In fact, I used to think nonfiction bored me to tears.
Who wants to read about real life? I get enough of that…well…just living, you know?
Even ‘present day’ genres (barring the occasional Grisham or Clancy) hold little interest to me compared to the depth and bredth of mystery available in the infinite multiverses of science fiction and fantasy. When there’s a whole universe next door full of wild possibilities, why would you want to spend any more time than you had to in this one?
But as I became an adult, I was increasingly aware that what I enjoyed most about science fiction (as most avid fans already know) is how relevant it is to philosophy, politics, and religion of any era. Consider 1984. Consider Eagle Eye. Consider J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, whose fiction is every bit as inspiring (if you like it) or pendantic (if you don’t) as any pulpit lecture.
It was interesting to try to explain to my theology professors (who didn’t read science fiction) that it was sci fi which got me into theology in the first place.
My forays into nonfiction have been surprisingly rewarding. It was through nonfiction that I scored my first sale, and some of my nonfiction articles continue to be among my favorite works in spite of their relatively mundane content.
Here they are for your perusal.
Are You A Rude Driver?
Find out whether you’re an asset or menace to the road by checking yourself against ten basic rules.
Road Trip Horror Story
Have you ever been so broke you couldn’t buy a cup of coffee? Or been completely strandid far from home? How about unable to call anyone to help you out of a bind? What about all three?
When this topic was requested by paying editors at Helium.com, I rapidly unfolded this true story. While it was never purchased, nevertheless my story was quickly voted #1 (out of 73 total articles) and has stayed there since.
Should your faith influence your vote?
Naturally, this was a popular debate at Helium during the recent election. Seeing it on the front page, I decided to take a stab at this article.
I’ve been pleased to see my article voted #2 out of 279 total articles on the “yes” side of the debate.
