Bad Beginning

I spent way too much time yesterday trying to find a post that showed up on my Instagram feed that began “I don’t give a fuck if you’re Jewish…” The post might have been making a point about the heartbreaking conflict in Gaza, and might even have touched on some common ground, but I’ll never know, because my instinct was to escape scroll, and now, it’s lost.    

It did get me thinking, though, and here’s some writing advice. I don’t give a fuck if you’re Jewish alienates rather than engages the reader, unless the reader also doesn’t give a fuck if someone is Jewish. I guess you’ve got to know your audience.

I’d also add that “fuck” is a power word, when used well, but “I don’t give a fuck” is a withering, brutal sentiment. “Even if you happen to be Jewish…” is a far better introduction.

Anyway, I can’t find the post, but I remember my point. In art, as in life, it is difficult or even impossible to find our way after such an atrocious beginning.