Readers and writers alike have encountered it: a highly capable protagonist in a crisis suddenly makes a baffling decision. According to Marcus Melnick, that moment isn’t bad writing — it’s biology. This “temporary neurodivergence” phenomenon occurs when stress disrupts rational thinking.
In his TEDx talk, Melnick explained how stress can physically and involuntarily impair the brain’s ability to function logically. For fiction to feel authentic, writers must accurately portray this cognitive breakdown and the path back to clear thinking.
Melnick will share his insights at the next meeting of Northeast Florida Sisters in Crime at 10:15 a.m. Saturday, June 6.
With more than 35 years of experience in security, law enforcement and firefighting, Melnick is also a published author and court-recognized expert witness. He is the author of “Overcoming the Hot Stress Mess,” which introduces his proprietary L.E.A.R.N. method for managing the body’s stress response.
During his presentation, “Temporary Neurodivergence,” Melnick will explain what individuals experience in high-stress moments and how both real people and fictional characters can realistically regain control.
Because of scheduling issues with our usual venue, Ponte Vedra Beach Library, this meeting will be held via Zoom only. All writers and readers interested in the topic are invited to attend.
Register for the Zoom link at NEFloridaSistersinCrime.org.
Northeast Florida Sisters in Crime, a chapter of the national organization, welcomes men and women who are interested in learning more about writing, promoting, and enjoying crime fiction.
For more information, contact floridasistersincrime@gmail.com.
