I love a good romcom novel and I’m not ashamed to admit it. I’m one of the millions of women (and some men) the world over who devour ‘chick lit’ with relish and, frankly, are glad of the authors who write it.Why then is this particular style of romance writing considered, by some, to be amongst the lowest form of novelising? (I’m asking.) Is it because a lot of writers feel the need to write something well, something more serious?
For those who look down on the subject matter or pass judgement on the quality of the writing, it begs the question, have they actually read a romance novel lately? Gone are the bodice rippers created by a poodle-loving glamour puss eating chocolates from a heart-shaped box while dictating to her typist. Times have changed; the stereotypical romance novel has evolved to meet the needs of its modern-day readers.
Modern chick lit authors do not just write about dizzy singletons on a quest to find the love of their lives. The trend is towards edgier, more dramatic novels, taking romance to a darker place. They tackle real-life issues – adultery, divorce, friendship, illness and loss. These books provide an escape from our own lives, for the readers and writers alike, where perhaps most importantly, happy endings are always possible.
So where does that leave a writer interested in penning a modern romance? Well, I think you’ve lucked out. The boundaries of chick lit are constantly being pushed as lives and times change. To my mind this opens up a whole new world of writing opportunities. Write about real life, what you know or what you hope(d) for: the funny, the sad, the difficult, the poignant. Inspiration is never very far away.
Enjoy yourselves writers of romance and may it live on in your hearts and minds in whatever form it takes.
Valentine love, Jo
Interested in finding out more? Jane Green, the author of 'chick lit' bestsellers Straight Talking, Mr Maybe and Second Chance, writes about her experiences as a romantic novelist in an article in the Writers' & Artists' Yearbook. She's also answered a few questions in a Q&A insider interview especially for our site.
Visit the official site of Jane Green »
Cressida Downing on February 17, 2010
I love the fact that the 'trashy romantic novels' of the past are now considered worthy literary classics! I wonder which of today's romantic novels will stand the test of time?
Cressida
Tony Lester on February 20, 2010
I've been looking at all sorts of genres of fiction recently, in an attempt to look for development opportunities for my writing. I approached some of the "womens' interest" magazines for fiction guidelines and bought a few copies to read what they currently print. I must admit, I was seriously surprised at the quality of of short fiction I found there. I am working on something else right now, a piece which is supposed to use "being female" as a brief, obviously a challenge for me as a man, but I figure it will help with my attempts at female character development in future work. It is proving fascinating. I've reflected on women that have impacted on my life and asked a group of about 6 women of various backgrounds and ages (range 40-60) what they like and dislike about being women. I cut and pasted what they sent me, and you know, it makes great reading just as it is! Anyway, I'm weaving all this reflection and research into a piece of short fiction. It won't be romantic fiction but I hope the exercise may help me when I try to write some. Sorry as usual I've waffled off on a tangent!