Writing with Dyslexia: The Education and Early Work of Wendy Wasserstein

Abstract

While there are several studies on the relationship between learning disabilities and creativity, there is no conclusive scientific proof of a direct relationship between the two at this time. Like several of the case studies available, Wendy Wasserstein's life and work provide examples of the effect a learning disability like dyslexia can have on career choice and an individual's ability to develop and implement novel ideas. This article examines Wasserstein's education, early work, and the role dyslexia played in choices she made related to her decision to become a writer, and her creative process. It also considers the advantage of reframing the way a learning disability can be viewed in relation to career choice and creativity.

Keywords: dyslexia, learning disability, creativity