Literary Fiction vs. Contemporary Fiction: A Modern Writer’s Guide
Navigating the world of fiction can be confusing, especially when terms like “literary fiction” and “contemporary fiction” seem to be used interchangeably. However, for writers and avid readers, understanding the distinction is crucial. It shapes what we write, how we write it, and what we choose to read. This guide will demystify these two categories, highlighting their unique characteristics and how they serve different reader needs.
Defining the Giants: What Sets Them Apart?
While both literary and contemporary fiction are pillars of modern literature, they are defined by different criteria. One focuses on style and depth, while the other is defined by its time period and relatability.
What is Literary Fiction?
Literary fiction is less of a genre and more of a category defined by its artistic approach. The primary focus is on the human experience, exploring complex themes through meticulously crafted prose and deep character studies.
Think of literary fiction as character-driven rather than plot-driven. The plot often meanders, serving as a vehicle for exploring internal conflicts and societal questions. The joy for the reader comes from the journey itself, the beauty of the language, the depth of the characters, and the resonance of its themes, rather than a race to the finish line. As one editor notes, literary fiction “can be any genre and should be for the masses, because at the heart of every work of literary fiction is the human experience”.
Key Focus: Style, character, and theme over plot.
What is Contemporary Fiction?
Contemporary fiction, on the other hand, is defined by its time setting. It includes stories set in the present day or the recent past that deal with modern themes, societal issues, and current technology. The term “contemporary” simply means “existing or happening now.”
This category finds mass appeal through its relatability. Readers see their own world and challenges reflected in the stories. Unlike literary fiction, contemporary fiction can be subcategorized into genres like contemporary romance, contemporary mystery, and women’s fiction. It prioritizes plot and character development in a modern context, making it highly accessible.
Key Focus: Present-day setting, modern issues, and plot-driven narratives.
Book Promotion
SATIRICAL WARTIME ROMANCE
Dick and Jane Go to War
When love and lunacy collide on the front lines, chaos becomes comedy. A sharp, satirical romp through the absurdities of battle and bureaucracy.
- A biting mix of humor and heart
- For lovers of satire and romance
- Laugh-out-loud wartime absurdity
TECHNOLOGICAL THRILLER
The Streamlined Locomotive
A high-speed journey through innovation and intrigue. Combines cutting-edge technology with pulse-pounding suspense in a race against time.
- Gripping technological thriller
- High-stakes race against time
- Innovation meets suspense
A Side-by-Side Comparison
The table below breaks down the core differences between these two forms of fiction.
The Overlap: Can a Book Be Both?
The lines between these categories are often blurred. A book can be both contemporary and literary. A novel set in the present day that uses beautiful, stylistic prose to explore deep themes of identity and human connection would fit squarely in both camps. For example, “Normal People” by Sally Rooney is set in modern-day Ireland and deals with current relationships, making it contemporary fiction. However, its focus on the internal emotional worlds of its characters and its minimalist style also earn it the label of literary fiction.
Ultimately, these categories are as much about marketing as they are about content. Understanding them helps you find your audience, whether you’re a writer crafting a story or a reader looking for your next great book.
Finding Your Next Read: A Practical Guide
Choosing between literary and contemporary fiction depends on your mood and what you’re seeking from a book.
When to Choose Literary Fiction:
- You want to be challenged and to think deeply about complex themes.
- You appreciate beautiful, artistic language and are happy to “dawdle in the details”.
- You are more interested in a character’s internal journey than a fast-paced external plot.
When to Choose Contemporary Fiction:
- You want to read a story that feels immediately relevant to the modern world.
- You enjoy recognizable genres like romance or thrillers, but want them set in the present day.
- You are looking for a relatable escape that reflects current societal issues and relationships.
Pro Tip: Use resources like Goodreads and Bookshop.org to find reviews and curated lists. Look for readers with similar tastes and explore recommendations based on books you’ve already loved.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is all contemporary fiction also considered literary fiction?
No, this is a common misconception. While some contemporary fiction can be literary, most is not. “Contemporary” refers to the setting (the present day), while “literary” refers to the style and focus. A great deal of contemporary fiction is written for popular genres like romance or mystery.
2. Can literary fiction be set in the past or future?
Absolutely. Literary fiction is not defined by its time period. It can be set at any time, whether it’s the historical backdrop of “Pachinko” or the speculative future found in works like “Slaughterhouse-Five”.
3. What is the difference between contemporary fiction and realistic fiction?
Realistic fiction is a broader category that includes any story that could happen in real life, regardless of when it is set. Contemporary fiction is a sub-genre of realistic fiction that is specifically set in the modern era.
4. Why is diversity important in contemporary fiction?
Contemporary fiction aims to reflect the world we live in. A growing emphasis on diversity ensures that stories include a wider range of voices and experiences from marginalized communities, leading to a more inclusive and rich literary landscape that better represents modern society.
5. Which genre is better for new writers to break into?
There is no single answer, as it depends on your strengths and passions. Contemporary genre fiction (like romance) often has a clear, voracious readership and established tropes that can be helpful for new writers. Literary fiction offers more creative freedom but requires a strong command of style and language to succeed. Write the story that calls to you.
Your Next Step as a Writer and Reader
Understanding these categories is more than an academic exercise; it’s a practical tool. For writers, it clarifies your target audience and helps you meet reader expectations. For readers, it sharpens your ability to find books you will genuinely love.
Now, take action.
- If you are a writer, look at the last thing you wrote. Ask yourself, is it driven by plot or by theme and character? Does it explore a modern setting? Use the answers to guide your revision and marketing.
- If you are a reader: Check your bookshelf. Identify one book you loved as literary fiction and one as contemporary fiction. Then, use the guidelines above to find your next read in the category you’ve been neglecting. Explore a new voice or a new sub-genre today.
Stephen Lloyd Auslender
I'm Stephen Lloyd Auslender, a sculptor and mechanical designer with a background in industrial design and a Ph.D. in creative arts. I've spent over 50 years teaching and creating, blending comedy and tragedy in my work.