Write Witchcraft: Originality
How to be original in a field where it's been done before..a lot.
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You’re in your local spiritual shop, browsing through tarot books. As you scan a few, you notice something. They seem to say the same thing about the cards. The Fool is a new journey, the Tower is destruction, the Four of Wands celebration, and so on. Are they blatant copies? Plagiarism? Or is this standard information, hence the similar descriptions?
Good questions.
It's a common fear among metaphysical writers-the fear of not being original, especially when tackling a topic that has been extensively covered. Take tarot and astrology, for instance, two subjects with a plethora of books, some of which have been in circulation for a considerable period. New books are constantly hitting the shelves, often catering to beginners, a market that continues to thrive despite some criticism (the biggest complaint I hear is the lack of intermediate and advanced fare).
Many of those books have similar descriptions of the cards or zodiac signs. Why? There are “traditional” meanings, so you’ll find similarities as you page through books. In these cases, it’s hard not to convey information in a way that seems repetitive or unoriginal. For example, the Ace of Pentacles is usually described as a “new financial opportunity.” It’s a standard interpretation and one most tarot books will include.
Even so, you can still write about a topic that honors the traditions without sounding like a wannabe Rachel Pollack (I wish I could write like her, but that’s not my style). Here are my tips for doing that:
1. It’s important to acknowledge that some of your work may naturally overlap with existing writing, especially in a field where certain information has become standard over time. This is perfectly normal and doesn't diminish the value of your unique perspective. Just remember, it's never okay to copy someone else’s work word for word.
2. Do not read other people’s books while you write your own. This is one way to avoid accidentally regurgitating someone else’s perspective. (I stay clear of tarot and astrology books when I’m writing on those topics. Biographies, true crime, and writing manuals for the win!)
3. You may have a different spin on the topic or an angle someone else never thought of. Write what you know and love.
4. Authenticity is key. Write in your own voice, just as you would speak. This is one of the best ways to ensure your work reflects you, not a carbon copy of someone else. (Here's a fun fact: I once received a negative review from someone who was upset that I 'sounded like a teenager.' But that's just me-I use a lot of slang in my writing because it's how I talk. While it might not be everyone's cup of tea, it’s who I am.)
5. If you use another source for research, cite your sources. Don’t take credit if you’re not the first to come up with a concept or way of saying something.
6. You can always run your work through a plagiarism checker like Grammarly. It’s not perfect, but it might show examples of other work that may be too close to comfort.
Lastly, don’t get hung up on originality to the point where you do nothing. There is only one you and no one can do you as well. We’re waiting for you.
xo
Theresa
image from stock photography Roman Samborskyi
This week’s good reads:
talks about non-negotiables. answers the question: Why isn’t my book in bookstores?