On SCRIBBLE CHICKS last week, we talked a little about why readers should read classics, and why classics are classics and if they are helpful to writers or not.
The consensus was that classics are fun to read in a certain mood and setting, but when it comes to craft, not the best idea because that's not the style/tone etc. that editors and agents want today. Aspiring authors shouldn't "waste" a lot of time reading something that won't help grow their craft.
Throughout my writing journey, I've always heard to read what you write. If you read a ton of chick lit but are writing a suspense, a mismatching chick lit tone might creep into your more serious suspense project. You don't want to read a lot of historicals if you are writing a contemporary romance because you might be subconsciously tempted to use a more flowery prose, longer setting descriptions or other attributes that makes a historical shine, but would just confuse contemporary romance readers. No corsets in 2010 please! =)
It's the same with the classics. Completely different vocabulary, setting, time period, clothing, word styles, activities, protocol, society, etc. So just be careful, and all things in moderation.
Of course, reading for fun is important and a good escape, so after work on your WIP is done and you have some extended time, grab a Dickens or Austen and have some fun with Charles and Jane (and Mr. Darcy of course!) ;)
What contemporary books of today do you think might have potential of turning into a "classic" in years coming? I bet Nicholas Sparks will have a few!
2 comments:
Great question! I have no idea which ones will survive. No doubt the literary stuff that never had commercial success. Hee hee.
I think robin jones gunn & Sophie kinsella are going to be classics, probably twilight too
Post a Comment