Writer's Corner #1: Picking a Genre

Writer's Corner #1

Picking a Genre

I: Examine Your Choices

Before you begin to even think about picking a genre, you have to look at your options. Some popular genres include-

1. Fantasy- Bring a world of mythical creatures to life using magic! Staples of this genre include magic, monsters, and an often medieval setting. However, it's always fun to invert tropes!

2. Action- Often in an urban setting, these stories often have intense scenes to keep the reader's interest. Staples of this genre include weaponry, criminal enemies, and a big city setting. However, of course, not every action book is like this. It's just that those are commonly seen in this genre. 

3. Adventure- These are often journey-filled stories with, instead of one big conflict, many small conflicts leading up to the Big Bad. Pairs well with any genre- the only real flaw with this genre is that it isn't very strong on its own. Staples include natural enemies, constant danger, and an ever-changing genre. 

4. Mystery- These often include a crime or tragedy, and revolves around the main characters trying to find out the four W's to the  mystery (Who did it, Where did it happen, Why did they do it, and What did they use). Staples include a sly and intelligent villain, an often dark tone, and can have any setting.

5. Coming of Age- These are stories that tell the story of one character's growth. These stories usually take the span of a long time, but sometimes can be resolved in only a month. Staples include an ever-changing tone, themes of growing up, and a modern setting.

While there are many, MANY more genres in writing, for the sake of a simple post I'm going to focus on these five genres. Other Genres Include: Sci-Fi, Children's, Fables, Romance, and Horror.

II: Read!

In order to do research on what genre you want to try out, narrow the genres down to about 3-5, and pick up at least one book from  each genre. Read it with an analytical mind. and try to look for the answers to these questions-

1. Did you find yourself engaged with the book? 

2. Could you see yourself as the author?

3. Would the themes and messages you want to express in this genre fit the context?

4. Was this book successful compared to the other books of different genres?
5. Would you enjoy making a story in this universe? (or: would you find yourself writing fanfiction of this series?)

Use your answers to these questions as a way to pick your genre. Of course, all "yes" answers is ideal, but it's near impossible to find the perfect genre for you to write with. So, use these questions as a reference.

III: Wrap It Around Your Story

...I realize that might need some explaining. Basically, take a look at your story idea and the genres that you feel suit your style, and combine the two, in a way. Make it so that your story is clear and follows a path, but the genre is obvious from the start as well. You have no doubt in your mind when you label Fear Street as "horror." You don't hesitate to call Harry Potter "fantasy." This should be the same with your novel, novella, short story, or poem. 

Another point I have to stress is that your story doesn't have to fit into one genre. Generally you want your story to be able to be told in one or two genres, but, really, you can have as many genres as you need to tell your story. 

Let's take a certain book for example: The Eternal Enemy. What genre is it? It involves a cursed VCR and a killer, so you'd assume it'd be horror. But... she's a robot from the future? So is she cyberpunk? But then she dies at the end... is it tragedy? This is proof that you don't necessarily need a set genre in order for your book to have success. However, it's a good idea to wrap your story of beans and rice with a genre that works like tortilla, to create a nicely formatted burrito. 

What did you think? Please let me know if this helped you in any way, or if you have some criticisms. 
Nightpytt out!