Q&A ยท 3:00:42-3:01:14

Can a book arguing the opposite case motivate historical writing?

A contentious history can motivate a response by setting out an argument that the new work must address.

Question

Is there a book that motivates you to write a book?

Short answer

A strong book arguing the opposite view can provide that motivation. The example is Anthony Cumming's The Royal Navy in the Battle of Britain.

Notes

A forceful statement of the opposite view gives an author a clear argument to work against. Anthony Cumming's The Royal Navy in the Battle of Britain is the example. Its contentious interpretation can motivate further writing while helping an author engage with the opposing case.