Contemporary fiction, as a genre, is a broad category that encompasses a wide range of books written in the present time, typically after the Second World War. This genre is characterized by its relevance to the current societal, cultural, and political climate. It is a dynamic genre that evolves with the changing times, reflecting the issues and concerns of the contemporary world.
Contemporary fiction is not restricted by any specific themes or styles, and it can include various sub-genres such as contemporary romance, contemporary mystery, contemporary fantasy, and more. The stories can be set in any location and can involve any type of characters. The only common factor is that they are set in the present time and deal with current issues.
Understanding Contemporary Fiction
Contemporary fiction is often confused with literary fiction, but there is a subtle difference between the two. While literary fiction focuses on the style and depth of the narrative, contemporary fiction is more about the time in which the story is set. A contemporary fiction novel can be a literary masterpiece, but not all contemporary novels are considered literary fiction.
One of the key aspects of contemporary fiction is its relevance to the current times. The stories are set in the present day and often deal with issues that are pertinent to the contemporary world. This could include topics such as politics, technology, social issues, and more. The characters, settings, and plots are all drawn from the world as we know it today.
Characteristics of Contemporary Fiction
Contemporary fiction is characterized by its focus on the present time. The stories are set in the modern world and deal with issues that are relevant to the current societal, cultural, and political climate. This includes topics such as technology, globalization, immigration, gender equality, and more.
Another key characteristic of contemporary fiction is its diversity. The genre includes a wide range of voices and perspectives, reflecting the diverse world we live in. This can include stories from different cultures, races, genders, and sexual orientations. Contemporary fiction often challenges traditional norms and explores new ideas and perspectives.
Importance of Contemporary Fiction
Contemporary fiction plays a crucial role in reflecting the world as it is today. It provides a mirror to the current societal, cultural, and political climate, helping readers understand and navigate the complexities of the modern world. It also provides a platform for diverse voices and perspectives, promoting understanding and empathy among readers.
Moreover, contemporary fiction often deals with important issues that are relevant to the current times. This includes topics such as climate change, mental health, social justice, and more. By exploring these issues, contemporary fiction can raise awareness and inspire action among readers.
Sub-genres of Contemporary Fiction
Contemporary fiction is a broad genre that includes a wide range of sub-genres. These sub-genres can vary greatly in terms of themes, styles, and settings, but they all share the common factor of being set in the present time.
Some of the most popular sub-genres of contemporary fiction include contemporary romance, contemporary mystery, contemporary fantasy, contemporary thriller, and more. Each of these sub-genres has its own unique characteristics and conventions, but they all fall under the umbrella of contemporary fiction.
Contemporary Romance
Contemporary romance is a sub-genre of contemporary fiction that focuses on romantic relationships. The stories are set in the present time and often deal with issues that are relevant to the current societal and cultural climate. This can include topics such as gender roles, sexuality, and relationships.
Contemporary romance novels often feature realistic characters and settings, and they can range from sweet and heartwarming to steamy and intense. The key element is the romantic relationship at the heart of the story, which must have a satisfying and optimistic ending.
Contemporary Mystery
Contemporary mystery is another popular sub-genre of contemporary fiction. These novels are set in the present time and involve a mystery or a crime that needs to be solved. The stories often feature a detective or a private investigator who is tasked with solving the mystery.
Contemporary mystery novels often incorporate elements of suspense and thriller, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. They also often deal with current issues such as technology, politics, and social issues, reflecting the complexities of the modern world.
Popular Contemporary Fiction Authors
There are many renowned authors who have made significant contributions to the genre of contemporary fiction. These authors have created compelling stories that reflect the world as it is today, dealing with relevant issues and providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives.
Some of the most popular contemporary fiction authors include Jodi Picoult, John Green, Khaled Hosseini, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and more. These authors have created memorable characters and compelling narratives, earning them a place in the hearts of readers worldwide.
Jodi Picoult
Jodi Picoult is a renowned author known for her contemporary fiction novels that deal with complex moral issues. Her books often involve legal or ethical dilemmas, and they are known for their well-researched and thought-provoking narratives.
John Green is a popular contemporary fiction author known for his young adult novels. His books often deal with issues that are relevant to teenagers, such as mental health, relationships, and identity. His writing is known for its humor, heart, and honesty.
Contemporary fiction is a dynamic and diverse genre that reflects the world as it is today. It deals with relevant issues and provides a platform for diverse voices and perspectives. Whether you’re interested in romance, mystery, fantasy, or any other sub-genre, there’s a contemporary fiction book out there for you.
By exploring contemporary fiction, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the modern world and the issues that are relevant to the current times. It’s a genre that evolves with the changing times, providing a mirror to the contemporary world and helping readers navigate the complexities of modern life.
Kathryn Taylor was born and raised in the Midwest and has been a book lover and writer since childhood. As a queer teenager, she found solace in writing, and has written professionally ever since graduating from college. She loves a variety of fiction book genres, including romance books, thrillers, YA, sci-fi, and adventure. She's also a fan of the Oxford comma.
Kathryn has received numerous awards for her writing and now writes exclusively for RT Book Reviews. She is a passionate activist in the LGBTQ+ community, speaking at conferences and leading queer writing workshops. When not reading and writing, Kathryn enjoys visiting local libraries and bookstores across the country, exploring new cities, and spending time with her family.
