Hey guys,
I was just wondering... how much is too much when it comes to writing dark fiction ?
Do you think that there would be a point where the reader would just put the book down, because the story is just too depressing ?
Or must you add some sort of relief for yourself and the reader ?
Can the whole story, from beginning to end be tragic ?
(sorry asking too many questions....)
Amanda
For almost 30 years I tried to write my autobiography but it was very 'dark' as you put it. It took me that long to see why I wanted to write it and question whether or not it would serve any 'good' purpose for readers or myself. This was the clincher for me; it would serve no good purpose.
I ended up writing a philosophy / motivational / self help book.
I don't read dark books now no matter the shade or how happy the ending.
Hope this helps
Barry Hines' 'A Kestrel For A Knave' (Kes) was pretty depressing but seemed to do well. I never read another of his novels, though.
Personally, unremitting gloom is something I can comfortably do without - get enough of that in real life. I want a novel to be uplifting in some way, not make me want to dig out the Prozac.
It's a big, fat NO from me ;)
I recently read one of the darkest/depressing books ever. But it was amazing!
Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma. Literally from start to finish it is depressing as hell! And is about a brother and sister falling in love. Very dark!
However, it's been published by Random House ;) (The writing is literally flawless though).
So don't feel too bad that your book is dark!
Debbie x