What is Gonzo Writing & Why Does it Matter?
"Look, this is how I see it..."
Filter off. Editing off. Let's write.
What on earth is Gonzo writing?
Gonzo writing rips up the rulebook of traditional news reporting and gives the middle finger to objectivity. It's not just about explaining what is happening (though it does that too); it's about storytelling and painting a picture of the world as seen through the eyes of the writer, flaws and all.
Funnily enough, the Gonzo style was spearheaded by a favourite writer and outlaw journalist of mine, Hunter Thompson. Like so many writers, Thompson was a chronic procrastinator (among a few other vices). With deadlines for the next big scoop looming, Thompson did what any good writer does: scribble down some notes and hope like hell something sticks!
Why does this style of writing matter now?
Well, this way, we're all part of the story. Often, we hear about world events unfolding and it is so easy to scroll on without a second thought... But if you insert yourself, the people you meet and the places you visit into the story, it becomes a lot harder to look away.
Rachel is typing...
Tusitala — The Life & Stories of Robert Louis Stevenson in Samoa
Stevenson's life in Samoa reflects the kind of travel I believe in — not as an escape, but as a form of exchange.
'Duende': The Spanish Word We Need to Talk About
There is one question that always sparks great conversations among language learners...
What Cuba Taught Me About Advertising
And 3 things everybody needs to know about social media
The Global Village: Closer Connections, Closer Conflicts
"People just want to live in fuckin' peace."
When the Writers Are Silenced: Rewriting Cambodia's Story Post Khmer Rouge
Every time we turn our heads in the other direction, we make it easier for history to repeat itself.
Aftershock: Before, During & After The Christchurch Earthquake 2011
You never visit the same city twice, not even the same city.