For many years, readers have fallen in love with classic works of literary fiction. From the classic works of Charles Dickens to the beloved novels of Harper Lee, literary fiction has a long and complex history with passionate fans around the world.
But for those who are new to the genre, taking the leap of faith and entering the world of literary fiction can be a daunting task.
In this article, we will explore the basics of literary fiction, discuss the various forms it takes, and recommend five books that are sure to spark a lifelong passion for this delightful genre.
What Is Literary Fiction?
Literary fiction is genre of fiction that focuses on the psychological and emotional experiences of characters and their inner and interpersonal conflicts.
Literary fiction often contains complex storylines and vivid descriptions, as well as elements of symbolism and metaphor. The characters in literary fiction are often well-developed, and readers gain insight into their thoughts and motivations.
Although it is often seen as a niche genre, literary fiction contains stories that everyone can appreciate.
Types Of Literary Fiction
Literary fiction can be broken down into several subgenres, including romantic fiction, historical fiction, and horror fiction.
Romantic fiction often deals with relationships between characters, while historical fiction is set in a specific time period, blending fact and fiction to bring the story to life.
Horror fiction can be further divided into two subcategories: supernatural horror and psychological horror.
Supernatural horror focuses on monsters, ghosts, and other creatures, while psychological horror offers suspense and terror without relying on supernatural entities.
Recommended Books
For those interested in taking the plunge into the world of literary fiction, here are five recommended books sure to set your inner reader’s heart aflutter.
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
This classic novel is a must-read for anyone interested in literary fiction. It features a well-developed protagonist, thoughtful exploration of issues of race and class, and vivid descriptions of the Deep South.
Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents by Julia Alvarez
Alvarez’s debut novel follows four sisters as they migrate from the Dominican Republic to the United States. Along the way, they must grapple with their newfound identity while dealing with cultural prejudices.
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Shelley’s masterful horror novel follows a scientist who creates a monster, only to find that he is unable to control the destructive path it takes. It is a wonderful example of psychological horror that is sure to thrill readers of all ages.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Bronte’s novel is a masterful example of a romantic fiction. It follows Jane, an orphaned governess, as she finds love and inner strength amidst a tumultuous romance.
Beloved by Toni Morrison
Morrison’s Pulitzer-prize winning novel follows a freed slave who must come to terms with her past, present, and future. It is a powerful exploration of race, identity, and the complexities of love.
Conclusion
Taking the leap of faith and entering the world of literary fiction can be daunting for those who are new to the genre, but it is well worth the effort.
There are so many books to explore and stories to be discovered, and for those looking to embark on this journey, the five books recommended above are sure to kickstart your literary quest.
