Workshop:
An Introduction to Writing for Children and Young Adults
“No
literature so transforms the reader as does the literature of childhood:
shaping, molding, uplifting, explaining, and informing.” Jane
Yolen
Another voice that impacts our stories is the genre
in which it is delivered. Again for this introduction we’re doing a broad
overview and will dig deeper as we discuss the different genres along the way.
For general
discussion though a genre is considered to be a kind or type of literature that
shares a common set of characteristics. For example, a mystery has certain
ingredients that a reader expects to find, as does a romance. Extensive world
building is considered a foundation to fantasy, sci-fi and historical genres,
but could be considered sluggish and intrusive in a contemporary or adventure
genre even when the setting is a critical factor.
However
the set-up isn’t always apparent. For instance, if we look at formulaic
fiction: some categories are generally mysteries, romance, sports stories, or
westerns and yet all of these can also be classified under realism as well.
Also the lines can blur when two or more genres are combined like a western
sci-fi, such as Firefly, or steam
punk, or a detective series with romance. Classics often cross genre
lines, are well worn, and continue to ‘sound’ across generation-to-generation
hearts.
Usually
though, when two or more genres combine there is still one main thread that
carries the main genre voice.
Here
are a few commonly considered genres as suggested by Rebecca J Lukens.
Realism: a story
that is possible. Effect follows cause without intervention of the magical or
supernatural. Outcome will seem reasonable and plausible. Usually the
representation of action that seems truthful. Under its umbrella are: problem
realism and social Issues, animal realism, historical realism, and sports
stories.
Formula
Fiction:
follows distinct patterns, it doesn’t eliminate a writer’s creativity but it
does restrict it within certain boundaries: mysteries, thrillers, romance often
fall into this category.
Fantasy: “the
willing suspension of disbelief”, which creates another world and asks the
reader to believe in it. Fantastic Stories include a wide diversity such as Charlotte’s
Web, The Borrowers, and then moves
into High Fantasy as well where the focus is on conflict between good
and evil. Science fiction stresses
scientific laws and technologies
Traditional
Literature:
The focus here is on folktales with stock characters and the emphasis is on
plot or action or theme, as well as good versus evil. Includes: Fables with brief
story morals, and lessons, usually with animals, Myths, Legends, Folk Epics.
Which One?
How
to choose? What do you read? What are your interests, background experiences, and
particular passion? For example, are you a docent anywhere or do you have a
lifelong of a particular sport or hobby?
Do
you write short or do you write long? Do you love research? Are you visual?
And
ask yourself the bottom line question: Why do I want to write and be honest
with yourself.
Action Steps:
1.
Take that same
memory you used in last week’s action step and now choose two different genres
for one of the age groups you wrote your blurb for.
2.
Write up a paragraph
or page in each of those genres. It doesn’t need to be an opening. Pick a
situation where a new reader would be able to identify the genre because of
your setting and dialogue and details.
3.
Let the pieces sit
for a few days and then re-read. Does one voice sound more natural than the
other? Does one version make you want to write more?
Share: Which
genres did you choose to experiment with? Why?
Read deep, marcy
No comments:
Post a Comment