6 Important Characteristics of Realistic Fiction
Realistic fiction is a kind of literature that features fictional stories set in a world similar to ours. These stories usually center on everyday life, connections, and events, showing people’s obstacles and feelings in real life. Realistic fiction authors create believable and relatable stories, delving into human nature and society through made-up characters and happenings.
This genre connects readers to the world around them by giving insight into human interactions, self-development, and social problems. Realistic fiction lets readers examine various viewpoints, tackle common themes, and identify with the characters and situations shown. Mixing familiar elements with imaginative storytelling makes this genre highly recommended for empathy, self-reflection, and enjoyment.
In realistic fiction, authors must be skilled observers to capture the subtle details of human behaviour and social interaction. They should aim for genuine portrayals by crafting well-rounded and lifelike characters. A talented author in this field should also explore important subjects within their narrative to deepen our understanding of the world and human experience.
Characteristic #1: Realistic settings
Realistic settings in fiction stories take place in environments that mirror the real world. They often include familiar locations like cities, towns, homes, schools, and workplaces. A recognizable backdrop allows readers to picture the events and relate to the story. These settings make the fictional world feel believable, enhancing the reader’s experience.
For instance, in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, the tale is set in Maycomb, Alabama, a fictional town representing the American South during the 1930s. This setting helps readers connect with themes of racial injustice and moral growth since Maycomb reflects that era’s society. Realistic environments create an immersive atmosphere for the narrative and help readers understand the characters’ experiences and challenges. This deepens reader engagement with the story and its themes.
Characteristic #2: Relatable characters
Relatable characters in realistic fiction display traits, emotions, and behaviours that readers can connect with personally. They usually face daily challenges and experiences that are easy to empathize with. Such characters draw readers into the story by creating empathy and resonance. They resemble real-life people.
In stories like “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “The Catcher in the Rye,” characters such as Scout Finch or Holden Caulfield are relatable because they deal with universal themes like growing up, self-discovery, and moral dilemmas. Their thoughts and emotions echo many readers’ experiences, making these characters approachable. Relatable characters help readers connect, which results in a deeper emotional investment. This connection allows for greater understanding and reflection from readers.
Characteristic #3: Everyday life themes
Realistic fiction focuses on everyday themes, touching on regular experiences, challenges, and emotions. These themes are relatable because they deal with familiar human experiences. Stories like “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green allow readers to connect with characters’ journeys and problems, making events more meaningful and stimulating.
Everyday life themes help readers see themselves in the story, building empathy and encouraging self-reflection. They invite readers to consider their lives and how they connect with the characters, creating a deeper bond with the narrative.
Characteristic #4: Emotional depth
In realistic fiction, emotional depth refers to characters’ complex and genuine feelings. It captures their inner struggles, growth, and wide range of emotions. Characters in realistic fiction are multi-faceted, feeling happiness and love but also sadness and anger. Emotional depth is vital to connecting readers to characters deeper and understanding their journeys.
Achieving emotional depth in realistic fiction involves exploring characters’ thoughts and emotions, showing their vulnerability, and uncovering their internal conflicts. Emotional depth creates well-developed narratives that resonate with readers by exploring beyond simple feelings and offering insight into characters’ inner lives. This bond invites empathy for the characters’ struggles and successes and often leads to powerful moments of connection for the reader.
Characteristic #5: Authentic dialogue
Genuine dialogue mirrors real people’s personalities and the story context. It offers a believable connection for readers, making the characters feel like actual people. For instance, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky presents teenagers’ authentic speech, using slang and humour to connect with young audiences. Genuine dialogue captivates readers and lets them relate to the story intimately.
Realistic fiction also delves into societal issues like racism, gender inequality, or economic challenges. Authors provide insight into these broader matters through characters and plot and engage readers with their surrounding world. This approach to fiction stimulates critical thinking, empathy and different viewpoints. Stories invite readers to reflect on their place in the world while exploring these themes.
Characteristic #6: Exploration of societal issues
Delving into societal issues in realistic fiction means examining broader social, cultural, or political topics within a story. Issues like racism, gender inequality, economic disparities or other real-world challenges can be explored. Realistic fiction often uses its plot and characters to illuminate these issues, igniting readers’ awareness and engagement with their surroundings.
Exploring societal issues in realistic fiction encourages critical thinking and empathy among readers. They are guided to see from different perspectives and challenge existing norms. Using their stories and characters to highlight these issues, authors create opportunities for readers to think deeply about the world and their role in it.
