For my entries in the 2012 A to Z Challenge, I will be focusing on
writing elements that I find important and that I want to incorporate into my
work.
Today, the topic is GENRE.
Among some devotes of the written word, there is a dividing
line: Literary fiction versus Genre
fiction. Depending upon which side of
the fence you sit, your stereotype might be:
-- Literary
Fiction is deep, moving, thoughtful, and artistic. Genre fiction is commercial, idiotic schlock
put out for mass consumption by bourgeois peasants.
...or...
-- Genre
Fiction is involving, exciting, and emotionally gripping. Literary Fiction is dry, boring,
pretentious puffery read only by snooty snobs.
The less-confrontational stereotype is that Literary Fiction
focuses on characters and Genre Fiction focuses on plot.
Frankly, I don't accept any of the stereotypes.
As I mentioned in a previous post, I think the best fiction
is character-driven. But I also want
excitement and gripping plot twists. So
I write 'Genre' fiction -- mysteries, science-fiction, horror, and other
speculative formats -- but I focus on characters. I love the blend of both and think that when
done successfully, it really makes for the most complete and compelling reading
experience.
Character AND plot.
Excitement AND art. I want it
all, damn it!
That's my chosen genre.
What about you?
Thanks for visiting -- see you the rest of this month for
more alphabetical fun!
Don't forget to visit HERE to see all the bloggers taking
part in this A-to-Z challenge, and try to drop in on as many of them as you
can!
5 comments:
I agree - characters AND plot! But...I'm definitely a genre gal myself. :)
I'm with you. One shouldn't excuse the other.
new follower,
mood
Moody Writing
I think some literary fiction is interesting.. but the characters have to be over the top.
Genre chic.. totally.. my genre of choice being thriller/suspense to read.
I am writing a crime drama.
Just popping on by via the A-Z Host blog!
:)
To all: Sorry for the delay in responding -- I was gone all weekend and just now getting a chance to catch up on my blogging. I hope to re-visit ASAP each of the A-to-Zers who visited and commented on my blog!
@Nicole: Thanks! Yeah, I'm a genre person too, but I'm going put a lot of focus on my characters!
@mooderino: Thank you very much for the comment and the follow!
@thedailywoman: Thank you for the visit! Happy A-to-Zing to you!
Word - I'm a genre girl, and tend to find most literary fiction to be, um, rather plot-less. But I'm with you - I want it all! The best books are the ones where interesting characters drive along a discernible plot. Is that so much to ask?!? :)
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