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| A to Z Challenge M is for ... |
That got me thinking about the definition of the mystery genre. I've always understood that a story in the mystery told of an unsolved murder that someone was required to solve. The mysteries I write contain no mention of werewolves and offer no broomstick travel options (admittedly, to my detriment.) Within the narrative, there are neither longing glances nor tangled limbs glistening with sated passion. I have never had a character make use of a semi-automatic rifle, and my protagonist has never mastered the art of breaking down an AK-47 while blindfolded. There isn't one mention of a Robert Rodriguez or Bruce Willis-inspired disaster. My mysteries aren't historical sci-fi mysteries or supernatural high-concept-techno-thriller mysteries.
While those genres have an enviable number of loyal followers, I only write about unsolved murders that someone is required to solve. That's my sub-genre, and I’m sticking to it.
Charlene A. Wilson gives a good breakdown of the genres in her G is for Genre post on April 8:
http://charleneawilsonblog.blogspot.com/2011/04/z-blog-challenge-g.html
You stick to the genre that you want, and don't let what other people are doing pressure you into giving up. If you love it, you will persevere through it, and you will find your audience. Where there's a writer willing to write a sub-genre, there's a reader willing to read it.
ReplyDeletePleasure meeting you via the A-Z Challenge!
Thanks for your insight, Jeffrey. I agree.
ReplyDeletethanks for visiting via the A-Z challenge, I love the No! Ladies Detective Agency, they're great as talking books on a long drive. I suspect writing is like blogging, stick to what you know and enjoy writing it. I'll never have a large follower group, but I will remain true to myself. I think that's really important. Good luck with your writing. Sue@JumpingAground (Alliteration & drabbles)
ReplyDeleteSue@traverselife(Workplace bullying)
The unsolved-mystery-solved is my favorite genre of mysteries!
ReplyDelete