Help and advice on non-fiction

[Chovexani]

I normally write nothing but fiction, but a couple of months ago I was asked to contribute an essay to a nonfiction anthology. This will be the first time I've ever been published, and that was the main reason I jumped at the opportunity (how often does something like this drop into your lap?). However, I find myself at a complete loss on how to start. I've had writer's block before, and for the most part I have my own methods of dealing with it, but I just can't get it together. I was wondering if anyone with experience writing nonfiction has advice or tips. My deadline's sneaking up on me and the blank screen is literally staring me in the face. :(

FWIW, the anthology is about young people and spirituality, Paganism in particular.

[wryter2000]

1. Start an outline

Before you put it in outline form, though, jot down the main points you want to hit.

You might want to do a brainstorming thing where you write down everything that comes into your head without censoring anything. Then throw out the things you don't like.

Once you have a list, you can see if the items fall into a few broad categories. Then start putting them into an outline.

I Overview
II Paganism is NOT Devil worship
III History of Paganism
A in Europe
B in the United States
C reaching out to young people
IV Differences between adult and teenage perceptions

etc.

VII Conclusions

[smoogatz]

2. Make it personal

The best approach to nonfiction for fiction writers is often the personal narrative--what was your experience as a young person with Paganism/spirituality? Is there a single episode you can write about in detail?

[Last Lemming]

3. I second

get personal all around The first question you should ask yourself is. . .wasn't there that guy??? Then go from there.

Before beginning you must drink a martini facing in the direction of Barstow California and ask for the good Dr. H S Thomson's blessing