Friday, April 3, 2015

C is for Cliche

Oh great I have just discovered that my novel is already cliche before I have even started it. I don't remember why, but I decided to Google 'Urban Fantasy' and I was dismayed. Wikipedia reads:

While several adult stories focus on professional heroes, many teen urban fantasy novels follow inexperienced protagonists who are unexpectedly drawn into paranormal struggles. Amidst these conflicts, characters often gain allies, find romance, and, in some cases, develop or discover supernatural abilities of their own.

Reading this blurb feels like reading 'my' story idea without specifics. I am wondering how do I set my novel apart when I apparently thought up a story that falls very closely into the template of a
certain genre. Or is that what readers want so they can find your works? Is writing your first manuscript even about potential readers or about getting the story in your head out? Wikipedia had more to say on the subject of the YA Urban Fantasy.

A common thread running through almost all teen urban fantasy is that, in addition to these teens dealing with stakes possibly as large as the fate of the world, they're also coming into their own and learning who they are. These coming-of-age themes and a teen 'voice' are what distinguish young adult urban fantasy from adult books in the genre.

I have a teenager and what I  plan to write is certainly not appropriate for her.  There will be at least one sex scene, but 2 would be better. Nothing really graphic, leaning more toward erotica, but still to much for a 14 year old.

Am I putting too much into worrying about labels and where my idea fits in? Do you worry about retelling the same story or are you of the school that figures it's all been done before and you're putting your unique voice on it to make it new?

Update on me: If you have been following along you know I suddenly lost my sight in my right eye on Sunday, 5 days ago. I am
still in the hospital and am not much closer to answers. I saw a cancer specialist yesterday and biased on the 8 billion tests they've run he doesn't think cancer is my cause. Good luck to all and I will visit as I can.

4 comments:

  1. Stopping by as we begin the #Challenge. As a writer, I decided to start with blogs that have (WR) as a designation. I hope you have some answers about your eye. What a bummer! Aren't writers lucky that we can write anywhere, any time within reason. Your blog is easy to read and navigate. I really appreciate that. Come and see me if you have time and feel like a visit.

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    1. Yes, we are all blessed with amazing technology. Thanks for stopping by I will try to return the favor.

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  2. I'm not a writer of fiction, nor do I play one on tv. But I sympathize with your fear of being cliche. I would think that it would be every writer's worst fear.
    ~Visiting from AtoZ

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    1. I do think your right. You have much wisdom, did you perhaps stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night?

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