As promised here are my top tips for writing what you don’t know, whether it be time, place or both:
1. Imagine, imagine, imagine – imagination comes before research. You can imagine it all. Trust your imagination, it’s your greatest tool. Only later will you need to back it up with research.
2. Don’t get hung up on the research- do only as much as you need and don’t feel you have to use it all. I often do my research as I go along.
3. Primary sources are the best – journals, official records, diaries, fiction written in the time or place, blogs, videos…
4. Sweat the small stuff – this is where the research is important – the small details are crucial.
5. An image can be worth a thousand words – use paintings, photos, maps, etc to inspire you
6. Be patient, know that it will take longer and be harder – but it will be fascinating and worth every minute of time spent.
7. Use a timeline – it will help prevent confusion and keep things right
8. Names are crucial – people, places, streets, fauna, flora etc – they must be authentic.
