How novel should a novel be?
We can all think of writers whose books we are told we should like. How many times have you explored an acclaimed author’s work and found it to be a tough read? In some cases the reader is left with the impression of self-indulgence on the part of the author. In others the writer may be striving for a particular literary effect that makes the book impenetrable for all but the most admiring critic. Yet other writers have built careers writing essentially the same book multiple times. When I embark on a new writing project (as I am currently) I find it a good time to reevaluate what I have done before and think about where I want to advance to next. High on my list of priorities is the issue of proving a meaningful, challenging experience for the reader while keeping the book readable.
There are a number of reasons why readers pick up a particular book. Many say they read for entertainment. There is certainly something to be said for a story that is simply engaging and many writers are happy to supply that demand. In my own case, while I strive to make any story I write compelling, I also have in mind, consciously or otherwise, the notion that what I compose should compel the reader to look at the world in unfamiliar ways or immerse him or her in a particular time and setting.
Many of us have a tendency to want things we read to reaffirm our view of the world. This raises a number of potential issues for writers. In fictional or dramatic works growth for a character often comes as a result of being made to face a challenge or deal with conflict. Writers can use that fictional tension to engage readers in ways that cause them to reeaxmine their preconceived ideas about the world.
I am not talking about writing ‘message books’ or pushing advocacy disguised as fiction. My point is that writers should not limit the scope of their creative process by worrying too much about what is likely to please the reader or tell them what they want to hear. For example, in my latest book, The Taste of Dust, I created a character who has developed a philosophy of life that keeps him in a constant state of uncertainty. His unwillingness to fully accept anything, including religion, makes sense in view of his upbringing and life experiences. By allowing the reader access to his inner world I am able to say something interesting about the character and, by extension, life in general.
Most writers want to sell books. I am no exception. However, as a writer, I have important goals that extend well beyond adding up the sales numbers. Have I created books of lasting value? Have I challenged the reader? It is an approach that may not guarantee instant success or significant returns over the longer term. I try not to think of that when deeply involved in the writing process. What I do think of is that when my name goes on the front of the book I have to be proud to have written it.
Enter my Goodreads.com giveaway for a chance to win a copy of The Taste of Dust (ends December 20, 2012).
