Historical vs Contemporary Fiction: Advantages and Disadvantages for Writers

When it comes to choosing a genre for your writing, the decision between historical fiction and contemporary fiction is not a small one. Each genre offers its own unique challenges and joys for the aspiring author. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each, drawing insights from experienced writers and scholars, including Doreen Knight.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Historical Fiction

According to Doreen Knight, historical fiction demands meticulous research, particularly regarding colloquialisms and cultural details. Writers must immerse themselves in the time period, ensuring accuracy in word usage and material culture.

Advantages

Consistency in Historical Detail: The social structure and cultural practices of historical periods remain relatively stable, making it easier to avoid anachronisms that can distract readers or hamper the authenticity of the narrative. Abundance of Resources: Historical information is available in vast quantities from public libraries, archives, and online resources, providing writers with a wealth of context and insight. Validating Research: The act of writing and researching historical fiction can be an excellent form of procrastination, allowing writers to claim they are always 'working on the novel' even if they do not progress in actual writing. This can maintain motivation and engagement with the project.

Disadvantages

Time-Consuming Research: The research required for historical fiction can be extensive and time-consuming. Writers must delve into original sources rather than relying on secondary research, which can slow down the writing process considerably. Commitment to Accuracy: Historical fiction demands a high level of accuracy in details and language, which can be challenging, especially when certain aspects of the period are less well-documented. Limited Scope: Even if set in a relatively recent past, contemporary historical fiction may still face challenges in portraying behaviors and expressions that pre-date the era depicted.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Contemporary Fiction

Contemporary fiction, on the other hand, offers a different set of challenges and benefits. Here, Doreen Knight highlights the importance of depicting authentic food and cultural practices of the time period as accurately as possible.

Advantages

Relevance and Relevance: Contemporary fiction can tap into real-world issues, trends, and social structures that resonate with readers, making the narratives feel relevant and timely. Flexibility in Research: The immediate past provides a more flexible research landscape, where much of the information is still accessible and relevant. Addressing Relevant Issues: Modern problems and social issues can be directly explored, making the writing more grounded and current.

Disadvantages

Societal Changes: The rapid pace of change in contemporary society can make it difficult to capture a specific time period without it feeling dated or out of place. Flattened Social Structure: Unlike historical periods, contemporary social structures can be more fluid and less defined, making it harder to maintain the stability of a historical narrative. Lack of Distinctive Cultural Details: Cultural practices and language in the contemporary period may not offer the same rich and distinctive details as those in historical contexts.

Conclusion

While both historical and contemporary fiction present unique challenges, the choice between the two depends on the writer's goals and the specific narrative they wish to convey. Historical fiction offers the opportunity to explore a detailed and authentic world, while contemporary fiction allows for a more immediate and relevant portrayal of the present.

Key Takeaways:

Historical fiction requires extensive research but benefits from a stable and well-documented social structure. Contemporary fiction is more flexible but faces the challenge of rapidly changing social and cultural landscapes. Both genres require a commitment to accuracy and authenticity, whether it be historical research or contemporary relevance.