Lionel Shriver's comments on "cultural appropriation"

Lionel Shriver gave an interesting keynote speech (text here) about writing.  I find it interesting because Kate Sherwood, a romance author I enjoy, has also recently commented that she doesn't feel comfortable writing a trans character because the trans community wouldn't appreciate it (my paraphrase).  I think it is important that authors are able to use anything without worrying about cultural appropriation, because as Ms Shriver pointed out, fiction will be little more than memoir if every writer can only draw from the well of personal experience, since outside of that would be "appropriation."  It seems she caused quite the stir, but overall, I would tend to agree with her.

Edit:  I have been reading more on this speech and the stir it caused, and while I will still support Shriver's assertion that fiction writers should be able to write what they wish, I will also say that if a writer is including a minority (sexual, ethnic, whatever) for no other reason than to check a tick box, then it probably better to not include said minority.  If there is a reason other than that to include said minority, for plotting or character development, then go right ahead and include them, but if, as a writer, you do a poor job with your character, then expect the criticism that comes with poor writing.  Everyone has different tastes and respecting those, while not necessarily agreeing with them, is one of the hallmarks of civilized society, the ability to agree to disagree.  Writers do care about their writing, and not every writer is going to accept critical reviews gracefully, but the chance of those reviews is an intricate part of publishing, so lash out, keep it civil, and make sure that your overall argument is not lost in the hoopla if your reaction goes viral.  I do think she made some valid points, but I think her argument is getting lost.  Fiction authors should be able to write the book they want to write, and if it is good, people will read it, and if it isn't, they won't.  Good or bad, it will likely get both sorts of reviews, and a writer needs to accept those, particularly if there is something in the book that borders (or is) controversial.