Dark vs Light
It's a simple fact that you usually write what you like to read. I love reading YA, and I love writing it. BUT, I also love romantic women's fiction. (I think that's what it is... lol) I read a lot of Marcia Lynn McClure books. They're romantic, have great kissing scenes, have happy endings and are very clean. Whenever I'm having a bad week and can't concentrate on writing for anything, I pick up a Marcia Lynn McClure book and usually read it in a day or two. Sure they're cheesy, but they make me feel so happy and light when I'm finished reading. And Ms. McClure writes a sexy hero. That makes things even better. ;)
It's not really a secret that I prefer lighter books over darker ones. I like feeling uplifted and hopeful after I finish a book. When I read something particularly dark, I tend to feel that way as well. It sort of brings me down. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't think there is anything wrong with darker books, I just tend to avoid them. I'll take a sweet book that makes me laugh over touchy subjects any day. BUT, if it's a touchy subject with humor mixed into it, then that's even better.
The Hunger Games is one of my favorite series. They were dark, but I felt hope when all was said and done. I won't go into Mockingjay, because that's a WHOLE other blog post, but I really enjoyed that series. Every book has to have some darkness. Whether it's the world in general, a bully, parents that don't care about their teens, divorce, neglect, breakups, whatever. There is always a dark spot in our characters lives. But something should outshine that dark spot and lift our character up with just enough hope that they know they'll be alright.
One of the reasons I prefer lighter books, is because I read to escape the dark. To get away from all the problems and sadness in the world. And that's okay. Not every book is for me. Just like not every book is for you. We all have our different tastes and different preferences on what to read or write. Just like we have a favorite ice cream or candy bar. If you put a Snickers or an Almond Joy in front of me, I would ALWAYS choose the Almond Joy. They're both great, but I prefer Almond Joy's a little more. ;)
What do you guys prefer? Dark or Light? Sad endings or endings with just a little bit of hope?
It's not really a secret that I prefer lighter books over darker ones. I like feeling uplifted and hopeful after I finish a book. When I read something particularly dark, I tend to feel that way as well. It sort of brings me down. Now, don't get me wrong, I don't think there is anything wrong with darker books, I just tend to avoid them. I'll take a sweet book that makes me laugh over touchy subjects any day. BUT, if it's a touchy subject with humor mixed into it, then that's even better.
The Hunger Games is one of my favorite series. They were dark, but I felt hope when all was said and done. I won't go into Mockingjay, because that's a WHOLE other blog post, but I really enjoyed that series. Every book has to have some darkness. Whether it's the world in general, a bully, parents that don't care about their teens, divorce, neglect, breakups, whatever. There is always a dark spot in our characters lives. But something should outshine that dark spot and lift our character up with just enough hope that they know they'll be alright.
One of the reasons I prefer lighter books, is because I read to escape the dark. To get away from all the problems and sadness in the world. And that's okay. Not every book is for me. Just like not every book is for you. We all have our different tastes and different preferences on what to read or write. Just like we have a favorite ice cream or candy bar. If you put a Snickers or an Almond Joy in front of me, I would ALWAYS choose the Almond Joy. They're both great, but I prefer Almond Joy's a little more. ;)
What do you guys prefer? Dark or Light? Sad endings or endings with just a little bit of hope?
date
newest »
newest »
message 1:
by
Amy
(new)
Mar 28, 2012 06:54PM
I have to say I would take the Snickers! :) But, I agree with you on liking lighter books vs. darker ones. Reading is my release, my escape from the boring and mundane things of the world. And books, just like movies, definitely make or break my day, so I choose to read good books. I think I'll go read one now.......
reply
|
flag
Snickers all the way! Okay that wasn't your point. Lighter books are so fun, but I think the books I deeply love the most are the ones that mix both elements. A character that can find joy and redemption even after going through the darkest time imaginable. Stories like, "It's a Beautiful Life.." So that's a movie, but it was a good example. :) And it has to be good writing. McCall Smith and James Herriot are very light, but the best writing ever. McClure is a little too cheesy for me. But I can totally see why people love her.
Julie wrote: "Snickers all the way! Okay that wasn't your point. Lighter books are so fun, but I think the books I deeply love the most are the ones that mix both elements. A character that can find joy and re..."I agree McClure is cheesy, but I can't help but feel happy and light after reading her books. ;) I do love a great character that can find happiness and love after dark times. And I agree. Good writing is key. ;)
