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....)
Hi Amanda,
I would quite happily read a story that was very bleak from start to finish. Story telling should, in some cases, challenge the reader. As I said in another topic, I don't think you as the author should throw in something that doesn't fit with the story you want to tell. Even if it is as a sort of respite for the reader. For me, if that isn't the story you want to tell then why write it?
Yes, there may be some who put the book down, but I think that it the case for a lot of books. Even for stories that are light in tone. For me personally I get annoyed with footnotes when they are on every page of the book describing to me how I 'should' read the book or pronounce certain words. I am the reader in those instances and the footnotes become a distraction and unfortunately mean I can't fully immerse myself into the story. Maybe it is just me.
Can you get too dark in tone? I think if you as the author can write it comfortably then no.
Should you write something that you are uncomfortable with? Perhaps, the question is are you willing to share it if you are uncomfortable with it?