Thursday, August 19, 2010
Expertise
I must admit, I am not an expert. Of anything. But I find I’m quite impressed by those who are experts, of just about anything. I guess I’ve never developed the obsession with any topic to consider myself an expert in it.
Yes, I have read Lord of the Rings more times than I can count, but I am not an expert.
I have seen a lot of movies, but I am not a movie trivia person. Or can speak of movies with anything more than everyday words. No education in the nuances of the theater. Same with soundtracks. Same with television shows. No matter the genre. I like ‘em, I watch ‘em, listen to them… But it’s not the same.
I’ve got a degree in language and literature.
Still not an expert of either. Granted, it’s an Associates of Arts Degree, but it counts as somewhat higher education.
I found when I used to attend science fiction/fantasy conventions on a regular basis, that what I knew of the genres, no matter how big a fan I was, did not make me an expert. There is always someone at a convention that will be able to quote dialogue, character trivia or something that will make it plain to any small bit of personal ego that I know nothing. Absolutely, fricking nothing. (Geeks can be extremely hung up on the idea of expertise, ya gotta love that about them.)
I attend Renaissance Fairs…not a historical expert on anything. (I probably drive the experts crazy at the fairs. I wear earrings, the color purple, mix eras...but what the heck! It's for fun!)
I attend Pirate Festivals… I am an expert on my own pirate world. But the reality of historical pirates? HA! Took an online course on the subject once and again, was humbled to realize I knew less than more. (So glad the festivals don't care about authenticity. They're pirates!)
All in all, as I age, I embrace the entire concept that the more I learn, the more there is to learn.
And I accept the simple truth that I enjoy learning, but am totally uninterested in dedicating myself to reaching expert status on … well… anything.
But I really admire those who are struck with this sort of dedication in regards to whatever it is they are interested in. Those who dive into those intricate degrees, or simply those fascinations that spark them to memorize, to understand, to make it part of their mental treasures.
I’m more of a flutterer. I flutter here, I flit there. I’m the sort who read the table of contents, the appendices…but seldom read the book in depth. I have a dozen books or more on pirates. I really like to look at the pictures and read snippets…
But I like experts! I find them fascinating. Generally, when I admit to an interest, they encourage questions and I learn. (Sure, some are jerks. But there are jerks everywhere.)
I know a bit about a great many things. I know wild flowers. I know mountain ranges. I know old school adventure books. I know fabrics (thanks to a Mom who sews.) Thanks to years at a metaphysical bookstore I know a fair amount about the new age and some of the old age religions.
Nope, not an expert on anything. I’d like to be an expert on any number of things. Irish history, geology, astronomy, astrology, archeology, dog training, baking, cooking, architecture, yoga, snorkeling, blades…
I love it when a book teaches me something. And I wonder whether these authors are experts or just good researchers. For example, Annette Blair has a series featuring vintage clothing and she sprinkles a wonderful amount of information about this topic in the books. Nora Roberts had a series featuring a glass blower that astounded me with the depth of detail she wrote. Made me want to learn glass blowing!
Eloisa’s series taught me a lot about chess in history. So many books with cooking heroines have honed my interest in cooking. Nevada Barr stuffs her books with information about national parks, some I’ve been to, some I haven’t. They are fascinating!
And it’s a nice passive sort of learning. I like that!
I remember watching Fiona of “Burn Notice” trying to entertain a child. Something she was woefully ill equipped to do. So what did she do? She played GI Joe with him, discussing the weaponry with him. Teaching him about what she is an expert in.
My most recent book? I did some research into the details of how a book is put together. The paper folding, hand stitching, etc. I have no idea if I put enough information into the story to entice a reader about the craft. But I enjoyed reading up on it, as it is something I have always wanted to do. One of these days, I’ll take a class.
What about you? Are you expert on anything in particular? When you write, do you use that expertise to add depth and detail to your stories? Your characters? What would you like to be an expert of, given any choice? Have you ever read anything that inspired you to take a class? Look for a teacher? Explore on your own? And for the sake of starting a fight, is being an expert necessary to a writer’s credentials?
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45 comments:
Wow. No takers today at all? Well, this should be interesting. I'm not an expert on anything, but I know enough about enough to get by. I'm good with that. I don't think an author has to be an expert on their topic (to write fiction, of course) but they should educate themselves enough to make the character seem capable. Or maybe even an expert. :)
I don't believe I'm an expert at anything, BUT I do know how to find information, and I have a healthy curiosity. I am constantly learning things and I'm interested in experiencing new stuff all the time. I think that's more important than being an expert. In fact, how many experts can't handle anything BUT the one topic they're well-versed in? LOL
So I think you're a Renaissance woman, Chance - which is such an elegant way of saying you like to dabble and explore and enjoy. :)
I second that - I'm a flutterer. Not exactly an expert but I know a whole bunch of little stuff about a ton of topics. Just enough to not be completely in the dark, but not enough to lead a conversation.
Chance, I completely agree with your whole post. I love learning too much to confine myself to only one topic. On the other hand, maybe it means I just haven't found that one thing I'm so wrapped up in that I would dedicate part of my life to it.
I'm all for learning something new everyday and hope I always feel the need to expand out and learn a little about everything around me.
I'd say, Chance, with all your non-expert knowledge in so many various fields, that you should be a writer. :) Your curiosity and knack for uhm, fluttering, is perfect training for writing. And don't bury what you ARE an expert in. You admitted it and it's true:
I am an expert on my own pirate world.
Yes, you are. No one else can claim that.
I'm a bit of a flutterer too; always dabbling in all sorts of subjects. As a secretary and assistant, I've always been at the fringes of great minds; scientists, attorneys, academics, etc. Interestingly, to me, I didn't see a lot of excitement so much with the attorneys - -just long, long hours of pressure. But the scientists, now that's another story. I'm fascinated by their enthusiasm - and if they're not enthusiastic, then, like anyone else, they're in the wrong profession. I admit to feeling a bit of envy of those who are so passionate about their profession and see it as a calling.
But no, I don't think you have to be an expert, as in having a bunch of degrees to your name for writer credentials - for fiction writing anyway. What you learn won't hurt though. Even if I get to be an expert, like in Geology, I think it's actually more the character of an expert I'd want to write about in a story then what he/she knows.
I think being an "expert" is only necessary when a writer is writing nonfiction. I think it's important to come from a platform when writing nonfiction. Besides that, not so much.
I'm an expert on a few things. I'm an expert at making apple pie (per my husband). I'm an expert at giving baths (per my oldest son). I'm an expert at walking my littlest down for a nap (as he won't fall asleep for anyone else).
My sister thinks I'm an expert in the field of general knowledge as she calls me to ask some of the most random questions.
I think being an "expert" is a matter of perspective. :)
I'd say I was an expert on Harry Potter--at least amongst the people I know. I know some people on MuggleNet are more expert than me, but as with all knowledge, you'll always find someone who knows more than you--but that doesn't necessarily make you "less of" an expert. Well, it doesn't make you a non-expert, let's put it that way.
I used to have a fascination with Scotland, horses, 19th century England, history of Christianity, and the Wild West. I know stuff here and there--usually the more questionable parts because I find the more questionable parts interesting. On the whole scale, what I truly know of these subjects compared to all the knowledge available would fit into a teacup and have room enough for crumpets; however, I still know more than most people. I do like hooking up with people who are passionate and knowledgeable about these subjects so I can learn more and occasionally discuss the bits I do know. It's why I love museums and tours. (I always thought it would be an awesome job to be the tour guide at a museum.)
The closest thing to expertise my characters have: Eve is an expert on baking; Adam an expert on farming, golf, and inventing (I know nothing about inventing and less about golf); and I think Lucy is an expert on human nature. Of all these, I might say I was closest to knowing something about human nature, but only because Lucy and I are equally cynical about it.
And I'd say no, it's not necessary. I've read plenty of books where it was obvious the author knew little about anything.
I am constantly learning things and I’m interested in experiencing new stuff all the time. I think that’s more important than being an expert.
I agree.
But be careful if you're a cat.
I think being an “expert” is a matter of perspective.
I agree with this too. *LOL*
Marn, are you going to share your apple pie recipe?
Sure. :) It's not fancy but it's pretty good.
I use box crust (told you... not fancy. Or hard.)
Peel and slice about 8 granny smith apples. layer in prepared pie crust. Between each layer of apples sprinkle brown sugar, a flour, and a little cinnamon. (brown sugar sweetens, flour thickens juice to syrupy goodness).
For dutch crumb topping:
use a fork to crumble together a stick of cold butter/margarine, a half cup packed brown sugar and a cup of flour. put on top of pie.
bake at 350 until it's bubbly.
tastes awesome warm with vanilla ice cream.
Morning crew! Slow going this morn... Bo'sun, it's probably a matter of perspective. You certainly know baseball, perhaps from an enthusiasts perspective, if not an expert. So you're able to write about the sport and lend it credibility.
If I were to attempt to write a ballplayer character, I'd have to really get out there and educate myself. You're starting with a fair level of understanding...but there are authors who'd start from nothing and make it work.
How much does one need to know to write about a subject and 'fake' the expertise?
LOL, Hellie -- I'm SO not a cat person.
And heck with sharing the apple pie recipe. Just bring out the pie!
When I say boxed crust, I mean refrigerated box crust. The roll out kind. I'm not good at pie crusts, but if you are, go with God.
Renaissance woman? Tee, hee. Jill of all trades, master of none!
Donna - Yer touching on the problem with being an expert...being touchy about what you know. Perhaps, even the topics I might be considered a mild expert at I'm reluctant to claim. There are always those who know more...
I have a woman in my local RWA group who when I mentioned having read a few Eloisa books gleefully informed me how the group she belonged to graciously informed said author of all the historical mistakes she'd made when she debuted...wasn't that just sweet of them?
Lord save me from such experts!
Morning, Scape! I do think it's about not wanting ta pin meself down. Now, I know me memory is a leaky vessel and perhaps it's about not wanting to try to reach expert status on much of anything... I don't like controversy and I know a claim of expert status would attract those looking to poke more holes in my ship...
Or it's just I'm flightly and like to learn new stuff and new stuff and new stuff. At least learn enough to not sound like a total twat when speaking of it.
Melissa! You're in the academy right now! I always found teachers fascinating. Mostly experts who are excited to share what they know. Granted, there are those who are stingy and seem to exist on a higher plane than the rest of us...
But I generally found scientist were usually the types who wanted to share. They didn't always make sense, but they tried! Lawyers? Not so much...
Marn - Great mother expertise! My Mum always speaks of her calling as a field underestimated by the rest of the world. And she's so right. Give the rest of us a toddler to soothe and we are totally flustered!
I'm not sure even those who write non-fiction are experts. But they have reached a certain level of exptertise.
At what point does thinking you know it all collide with there is always more to know?
Being an expert is a dangerous place to be. It's like standing atop the mountain and there is only room for one, so there's going to be some pushing going on...
Ah, Hel! But being an expert on human nature from Lucy's perspective would certainly be at odds with the truth of human nature from the perspective of say, Gandhi.
Might be easier to say expert in geology, that's a pretty static science. Being an expert in human nature is like being a an expert on weather. It's all predictable, until it's not!
I imagine Potterites are similiar to Trek-ites when it comes to how much one knows...
I have a woman in my local RWA group who when I mentioned having read a few Eloisa books gleefully informed me how the group she belonged to graciously informed said author of all the historical mistakes she’d made when she debuted…wasn’t that just sweet of them?
*snorts* Sweet as venom.
I forget, when Eloisa debuted, was mention made that she was a Shakespearean professor? There is a certain...glee one receives pointing out errors to people who are "better educated" than you. Maybe this group falls into that category--they resent the trend that authors are now emphasized for being professors, lawyers, et al, and therefore more qualified to write novels and therefore get some joy out of proving that these "experts" aren't as expert as they're presented. After all, if you're going to write a historical set in the early 19th century, isn't the general assumption you know something about the history? The social mores, society, foods and culture, wars and historical aspects...
Lots to think about here, 2nd Chance. I believe there will always be someone out there who knows more than I do. The trick is to find that person and learn as much as you can. ;)
If I could claim to being an expert in anything, I'd be an expert in making chocolate chip cookies. :D
Yeah, I found myself looking at this woman and thinking..."Wow, you guys have a lot of time on your hands, don't you?"
She is one of those members who hasn't finished more than 2 books in a decade. And has never found a publisher.
And wow, that apple pie sounded good...too bad baking is something I fall into the rank amateur standings with.
Marn, thank God you meant the pre-rolled pie crust. I stink at making "homemade pie crust" and I never seem to have enough room (or energy) to roll out my own crust!
I was wondering if you did the dutch apple pie version. (My Dad will take whatever pie is available: dutch, 2 crust, whatever; however, I know some regions are more disposed to certain types than others.)
There is this great little bakery/cafe called The Blue Owl in Kimmswick, MO, which is a couple hours from where I live and quite a drive on a good day, but it has the BEST pie. They make these "levee high" apple pies. They look like something from a Dr. Seuss book. And one version is a caramel apple, and you have this huge Dr. Seuss shaped pie, with caramel and pecan pieces melted over the top.
http://www.theblueowl.com/pie.php
(Incidentally their butterscotch pecan pie is also to die for. One bite will pretty much throw you into a diabetic coma from sugar, but it's soooo good.)
Kathy! How are you? We haven't seen you in a while!!
Kathy! I think I'm an expert at eating them! I can do a mean cookie dissection... Needs more...brown sugar. The crunch is missing and too many crumbs. More chocolate, always needs more chocolate. Yes, and cinnamon! Nuts? No!
;-)
This is always a job I'm willing to take on!
I suppose I can claim expertise in some academic areas--Southern literature, 19th-century English and American poetry, 20th-century English and American poetry. I passed exams and wrote a dissertation that was approved by other experts, so I have some credentials. But I know enough in those fields to be fully aware of how much I don't know.
Experience and study have made me something of an expert in teaching literature and composition, in popular romance fiction, in the Bible. But in those areas too I am aware of how limited my knowledge really is.
One of my favorite professors defined education as the destruction of illusions. One illusion my long years of education decimated was the belief that I knew a great deal.
Part of the fun of writing for me is having my characters possess talents, skills, and knowlege I lack. While still far from an expert, I know a great deal more about guitars, quilting, restoration architecture, bereaved children, PTSD, pastoral counseling, etc. than I did a few years ago. I've learned researching my characters' areas of expertise and experience.
I hope I never lose the desire to keep on learning.
Hel, those pies look...sorta...like tits. Nice! I'm imagining whipped cream...
Doing better, Hellie. Thanks for asking! I'm working part-time now and writing when I can so I've been uber busy. Sorry I haven't posted in a while. ;)
One of my favorite professors defined education as the destruction of illusions. One illusion my long years of education decimated was the belief that I knew a great deal.
And I'm imp enough to find it extremely satisfying to be around when they who think they know everything and have been insufferable about it, discover this simple fact...
I do think the older brain approaches learning in a different way than the younger brain. There's less empty space to just fill with facts, so we spend some time shuffling all the new facts around and create interesting corolations with them.
Which can drive the younger brains crazy...
I do love being the imp in the room...
2nd Chance, that's my problem. I can make a fantastic chocolate chip cookie, but I can't stop eating them when they are just out of the oven. Yum!
Starbucks changed their chocolate chip cookie recipe and it breaks my heart...now it's like a sugar cookie with chocolate chips. Like...no brown sugar! I'm not an expert...but! You need brown sugar for a good chocolate chip cookie!
Of course, this means I don't eat them their anymore...
Mellow, mellow Friay. Sigh. Well, no fights and that is a good thing! I'm off to get out of the pajamas and over to Starbucks...
Horrors! Chocolate Chip Cookies MUST have brown sugar, whether dark or light. What is Starbucks thinking?
"I do think the older brain approaches learning in a different way than the younger brain. There’s less empty space to just fill with facts, so we spend some time shuffling all the new facts around and create interesting corolations with them."
That explains so many things, 2nd Chance. :)
Thank you, Kathy! I think so.
It's also my excuse for not remembering particular details anymore. I remember the 'gist' of things, just not the facts and figures. It's about slipping the gist into spaces where it has a home, near something to cozy up to. And where I might be able to remember it!
All morning I've been thinking about this post and it made me think of the phrase:
"Jack of all trades, master of none."
Personally I've always thought being a Jack of all trades a way better thing. It's like believing that your experience in many different areas makes you more well-rounded and insightful of the world than a narrow, "master" approch would.
In reviewing the wikipedia listing for that phrase, they don't seem to hold it in a good light, but I tend to disagree.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_of_all_trades,_master_of_none
I agree with Scapegoat -- it feels like you can get out of more calamaties and cope with things better if you've got lots of information on how to deal. Kind of like an "information MacGyver". LOL
And as for the crazy memory as I get older -- I feel like I've got this overstuffed filing cabinet in my brain, with things just jammed in random places so it's relatively tidy -- but then I can't remember where I filed it. LOL
Scape, let's just keep the line that says...
"Jack of all trades, master of none, though ofttimes better than master of one"
I like that. Ofttimes better than master of one. I do figure I have more common sense knowledge than a lot of experts.
With writing time travel as a usual part of my books, it's always tricky with having characters that know enough to know what is missing, but not enough to be the re-inventor of anything. Though Emily is determined to entice one of the Tortuga locals to open a pizza parlour...
And Donnaroo, I like the MacGyver concept, too! Though that dude knew a heck of a lot about a heck of a lot of stuff. As opposed to my knowing a little bit about a heck of a lot!
Donna - We need to get to the memory store and buy more RAM.
Less then 40 and dead in the water...
Well, I'm gonna be around another hour, then I'm going to the movies!
Hellie - those pies look so yum.... :)
Yeah, I can't roll out the crusts either, not enouh space, patience or time. And the refrigerated crusts taste just as good I think.
My hometown is more a crumb topping kinda place. And what's not to love? Butter and brown sugar.... It's like its own HEA.
la la la...taking us over 40 comments :)
Are you all off becoming experts on something...
Becoming an 'expert' means learning more and more about less and less.
In the days of Jane Austen, one could be fairly knowledgeable about everything, but with the information explosion in the 20th century, it became harder to keep up to date with one's own specialization, forcing one to become even more specialized.
Eventually the expert will know everything there is to know about nothing at all.
No, becoming an expert is the last thing a writer needs! The university of life, learning what makes people tick, is far more important for a novelist.
Having said that though, an extensive knowledge of a particular field can be a considerable help with writing certain types of novel.
I'm thinking of Elizabeth Peters and her Amelia Peabody series. Peters has a Doctorate in Egyptology and it shows in her books.
She can introduce factual information about pyramids or hieroglyphics as though it were second nature. Such authoritative writing adds greatly to the interest and plausibility of her plots IMO.
If you are writing about magic and fantasy though, its probably best to forget everything you were ever taught! :lol:
I don't think that an understanding of nuclear physics for example,is going to help Miranda travel through time!
Nice Blog Chance!
Eventually the expert will know everything there is to know about nothing at all.
In that case, I might have achieved expert status.
Darn it, Q! You were my one hope to logically explain what Miranda does!
Sorry to bop off... saw Eat Pray Love...nice movie.
Hel - I'm with you, if that is the definition, I, too, am an expert.
Marnee - oh, so true! Butter, brown sugar and chocolate chips...heaven! And I'm trying to hard to eat healthy, it's hell...
Sigh.
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