Writing that is critical of Local Authority

by Ron Muller
8th November 2013

I've just started an autobiographical novel that is heavily critical of my local authority. Would govt. censorship present any type of problem.

Replies

Thanks everyone for your response.

I've been considering and preparing [WriteItNow.co.uk software] to write a book for several years. My background is varied but mainly photographic.

As a British passport holder, I decided to move back to the UK in '95 after having been away since the 80s. However, unable to find work, I was forced to move into Sheltered Accommodation which, for several reasons, became a complete nightmare.

Andy Warhol's advice when faced with a stressful situation was, "pretend it's happening to someone else" which, if you can pull it off, isn't as laughable as it sounds!

The spectacular incompetence, dishonesty, lack of accountability, collusion and rampant sadism by Social Services staff just beggars belief. On the bright side, I have 15 years of accumulated material to draw on.

My problem is that although it's all shocking AND true I'm unsure how to describe it without being censored!

Philip, I would love to discuss this privately with you and, as I'm new to this site, wondered what the process entails.

Ron

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Ron
Muller
270 points
Developing your craft
Short stories
Fiction
Autobiography, Biography and Memoir
Ron Muller
15/11/2013

Just be careful that you don't personally accuse somebody by name of an act that they allegedly have committed without proof or if they haven't been tried in court etc. Some people might get angry enough to threaten you with legal action. Tread carefully.

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Philip
Evans
270 points
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Short stories
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Autobiography, Biography and Memoir
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Philip Evans
09/11/2013

You might have a problem if you work for them - depends what confidentiality agreements you signed.

If not, then 'fair comment' applies, like Mark said :)

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Jonathan
Hopkins
6735 points
Practical publishing
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Historical
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Jonathan Hopkins
08/11/2013