In a post on BookBaby, Joe Yamulla offers advice on writing realistic literary and historical fiction. “Real-world issues are complicated, approachable, and relatable, all at once,” he says. “This is what makes the ordinary so extraordinary, and it’s why realistic fiction is one of the most compelling genres to read.”
Yamulla shares nine tips for writing realistic fiction:
- Make it believable. “Readers should be able to relate to fundamental aspects of your characters’ lives,” Yamulla says.
- Focus on the ordinary. Use mundane details to make connections, create emotional resonance, and convey theme.
- Go deep beyond the surface. Mine your experiences and emotions for deeper emotional truths. Don’t skimp on self-examination, questioning, and honesty.
- Be a student of the times. Research isn’t just for historical fiction. “Fully understand the social and political climate of your story,” Yamulla writes. “You need to be a subject-matter expert on any time and place that you write about. Be sure to fact check everything!”
- Utilize real world events. Fact-based events cement your story in the real world. Use real world events as backdrop, setting, or the inciting incident.
- Thoughtfully introduce conflict. Conflict is easy when your protagonist is chasing a serial killer or a dragon. Create metaphorical dragons that your hero must slay, such as trauma, rejection, self-doubt, or financial ruin. Real life should have real stakes.
- Be succinct. “There’s no need for hundreds of pages of worldbuilding,” Yamulla writes. “With realistic fiction, readers already understand the elements of everyday life.”
- Don’t worry about being ordinary. “If you add stakes, develop your realistic characters, and include relevant social commentary, your story will be both interesting and important,” Yamulla says.
- Be confident. “By writing a realistic fiction novel, you make your voice heard,” Yamulla adds. “You are showing the world that there is beauty, power, and value in the ordinary. You are enforcing a fundamental truth: real people matter.”
