GUIDES

Crossing Genres: A New Frontier for Emerging Authors

Blurring Boundaries in Modern Literature: The Advantages and Challenges for Up-and-Coming Writers

Wilbur Greene
10 min readSep 9, 2023

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Photo by Kimberly Farmer

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In the vast world of literature, traditional genres have always been the compass that guided both writers and readers. From the tragic depths of dramas to the far-reaching boundaries of science fiction, genres offered a framework, a set of conventions and expectations that writers adhered to and readers understood. They were crucial in providing structure, setting reader expectations, and guiding marketing efforts. When one picked up a mystery novel, they expected a certain series of events, just as a romance novel promised a different kind of emotional journey. These genre definitions were more than just labels; they were a promise of the content within.

However, like a river carving through rock, the landscape of literature is in a state of constant evolution. Over time, a remarkable shift has been observed. The once rigid boundaries of genres are becoming more permeable, leading to the burgeoning trend of genre-blending. This shift…

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Wilbur Greene

Sydney-based writer, editor, & literary agent. Melbourne Uni alum, ex-HarperCollins & Creative Artists Agency. Now freelance writer & consultant.