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Genre Doesn't Have to Mean Generic
by: Sherry D. Ramsey
So you think you'd like to write a mystery novel, or perhaps a science fiction tale or a romance. You'll almost inevitably encounter the notion, from other writers or readers, that such commercial genre stories are unimportant, or, even worse, too simplistic to waste time writing. Is it true?
Much of the "literary" world views all genre fiction as a kind of sub-standard, formulaic drivel. The terms "genre" and "formula fiction" are often used to connote writing that is unimaginative, unoriginal and predictable. In most cases, this is a gross misconception.
What genre fiction actually does is conform to a certain set of conventions or traditions, because it caters to readers with very specific sets of expectations. This does not mean that there is no room for originality within those conventions. It merely means that genre writers must work hard to provide new treatments of ideas within a somewhat bounded framework.
The heroes and heroines of today's successful genre stories are not cardboard cut-outs or stereotypical characters. They must be well-rounded and alert to the workings of their world, regardless of whether they inhabit our modern-day world, a medieval fantasy demesne, a distant planet in the future, the old west, or any of the other boundless possibilities in genre fiction.
Genre fiction can and often does address very real issues: political/religious intrigue, ethnic/class rivalry, economic/social unrest, or all of the above. Characters lacking in depth, intelligence or emotion have little place here.
Keep in mind, too, that categories of genres and sub-genres today are largely the creation of publishers, who need to pigeonhole works in order to slot them into their publishing mandate and bookstore shelf space. Genre fiction readers, whether they are partial to gothic romances or wild west shootouts, look for many of the same elements in their fiction: a strong story plot, intriguing characters, innovative ideas, a sense of discovery and wonder, and a new way to understand the human struggle.
Genre fiction does not have to be a generic retelling of a tired-out formula. Learn the conventions and traditions of what you want to write, read widely in that genre to see what's been done, and then put your own spin on it. You'll find a wide readership of fans eager to share your unique vision.
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About The Author
Sherry D. Ramsey is a fiction and nonfiction writer, editor and Internet publisher. This article is an excerpt from her new e-book, "The New Writer's Guide to Just About Everything," now available from Booklocker.com at www.booklocker.com/bookpages/sherryramsey01.html. Sherry's web magazine, The Scriptorium, provides information, advice and inspiration for writers. Visit www.thescriptorium.net.
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