What is Literary Fiction? 11 Tips for Writing in this Genre

Forget the formula—this is how you craft fiction that lingers, challenges, and stays with readers long after the last page.

---

Literary fiction isn’t just about telling a story—it’s about exploring the depth of human experience, making readers feel, think, and question. It’s the genre that dives into the intricacies of characters’ minds, their flaws, their triumphs, and everything in between.

Forget straightforward plots or easy resolutions; in literary fiction, the focus is on the beauty of language, the subtle shifts in relationships, and the uncomfortable truths we often avoid.

If you want to craft a novel that doesn’t just entertain but also lingers with your reader, here’s how to write literary fiction that resonates, provokes, and stands the test of time.

What is literary fiction?

Literary fiction is the genre that delves into the human condition, examining characters’ thoughts, emotions, and the subtle complexities of their lives.

Unlike popular fiction, which often emphasizes fast-paced plots and entertainment, literary fiction is more introspective and focuses on style, character development, and thematic depth. It’s less about solving the mystery and more about exploring why it matters in the first place. These literary books can challenge, provoke, and offer new insights, often using sophisticated language and nuanced storytelling.

Some well-known examples of literary fiction books include The Road by Cormac McCarthy, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, and debut novels like White Teeth by Zadie Smith. Whether it’s a sprawling postmodern exploration of the psyche or an urban drama set in London, literary fiction aims to reveal truths about society and the individual experience.

There are many literary genres that fall under the broad heading of “lit fic,” each offering its own lens on the human experience:

• Women’s Fiction: Novels focused on themes and issues relevant to women’s lives, often dealing with relationships, identity, and resilience. Bestselling examples include works by authors such as Elena Ferrante.

• Historical Fiction: Set against the backdrop of different eras, historical fiction often blends well-researched historical facts with richly developed characters. Books like All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr are great examples of how literary fiction meets historical context—sometimes even world war settings.

• Contemporary Fiction: These books depict modern life and social issues, providing a mirror to our times. The emphasis is on contemporary themes and everyday struggles that are relatable to today’s readers. Many new releases in literary fiction fall into this sub-genre, presenting slice-of-life narratives that resonate deeply.

• Magical Realism: Literary fiction that introduces fantastical elements into the real world without explanation. Think Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude, where magic is woven seamlessly into ordinary life, reflecting a deeper examination of reality.

Literary fiction can take many forms, including full-length novels, novellas, or collections of short stories.

How is literary fiction different from genre fiction?

Literary fiction and genre fiction have distinct characteristics that appeal to different reader preferences. Here’s a breakdown of their differences:

Focus:

• Literary fiction: Emphasizes character depth, complex themes, and the human condition. It’s often more introspective, focusing on emotions and relationships.

• Genre fiction: Is plot-driven, emphasizing exciting story events, fast pacing, and escapism. Genres like science fiction, thrillers, and American westerns follow specific story conventions to create engaging narratives.

Subgenres and tropes:

• Literary fiction: Avoids adhering to a fixed formula. Its storytelling is flexible, focusing instead on character motivations, growth, and introspective journeys.

• Genre fiction: Divided into subgenres like sci-fi, romance, and westerns, each with recognizable tropes (e.g., world building in sci-fi or suspense in thrillers). Readers come for a specific experience, like an adventurous ride or a love story with a happy ending.

Writing style:

• Literary fiction: Often experimental in its language, form, and structure. The focus is on creating a more artistic narrative that challenges the reader.

• Genre fiction: Uses a straightforward narrative approach, aligning with readers’ expectations. It’s crafted for broad appeal and entertainment, often featuring gripping storytelling.

Audience and purpose:

• Literary fiction: Appeals to readers who enjoy deeper exploration of themes and emotions. It’s not uncommon for protagonists to confront existential questions, with narratives that may not resolve neatly.

• Genre fiction: Targets readers looking for entertainment and familiarity. Authors like Stephen King deliver plot-driven books that entertain from start to finish. These works are accessible and commercially successful, often written to become bestselling books.

Characterization:

• Literary fiction: Characters are complex, layered, and not always likable. The protagonists’ flaws and introspection take center stage, offering a deep dive into their thoughts and behaviors.

• Genre fiction: Characters are often guided by clear motivations that drive the plot. They are typically defined by the roles they play within the story (e.g., hero, villain).

Endings:

• Literary fiction: Endings can be open-ended, ambiguous, or reflective. They aren’t necessarily about resolving plot points, but rather about the internal transformation of the characters.

• Genre fiction: Has clear resolutions—whether it’s the protagonist saving the world or solving the mystery. Readers get closure.

Both literary and genre fiction have their strengths, with each providing a unique reading experience. As a creative writing choice, it depends on whether you want to explore human complexity or give readers a thrilling, plot-driven escape.

The key elements of literary fiction

To truly capture the essence of literary fiction, it’s important to understand the unique building blocks that define it. These key elements shape the emotional impact, complexity, and richness that readers expect from literary stories. Let’s break down what makes this genre resonate on such a profound level.

1. Complex character development

• Deeply explored characters: In literary fiction, the main character is often richly developed, with detailed thoughts, emotions, and motivations. The emphasis is on understanding not just what a character does, but why they do it.

• Character growth: Themes like coming of age are frequently explored, highlighting significant changes and personal growth. These narratives delve into the evolving mindset of the protagonist, like those in A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce.

• Flawed and realistic protagonists: Characters in literary fiction are often portrayed with profound flaws and moral dilemmas, differing from idealized heroes in commercial fiction. Many notable characters navigate complex ethical challenges, adding depth to the narrative.

2. Exploration of the human condition

• Themes of existence and morality: Literary fiction often addresses profound themes like life, death, and morality. These books aim to explore the bigger questions, and at times, the role of God in shaping human experience.

• Serious societal issues: Many literary works address significant social and political issues, such as those found in dystopian narratives or stories exploring systemic injustices.

• Contemporary concerns: In contemporary literary fiction, themes might include the complexities of relationships, identity, or navigating modern life. Works that win the Booker Prize or Pulitzer Prize often tackle these impactful issues, encouraging reflection.

3. Rich, evocative language

• Emphasis on prose quality: Unlike genre writers who prioritize fast-paced narratives, literary fiction uses language as an art form. The prose is carefully crafted to evoke emotion and paint vivid imagery. Even in translations to English, the richness of language remains paramount.

• Use of symbolism and subtext: Literary fiction incorporates layers of meaning through symbolism and subtext, giving readers a deeper experience. The use of metaphors and allegory adds complexity to a narrative, making these books ideal for book clubs and book reviews.

4. Focus on theme and meaning

• Magical realism: Literary fiction often blurs the line between the real and the surreal. Authors use magical realism to weave fantastical elements into otherwise realistic settings, making the story feel like a heightened version of reality.

• Ambiguous themes: Unlike commercial fiction, literary fiction doesn’t always provide straightforward answers. The stories often raise questions about human nature and the world, offering an ambiguous resolution that encourages readers to ponder long after the last page.

5. Unconventional story structure

• Experimental narratives: Literary fiction frequently features unconventional story structures. Books may follow non-linear timelines, shifting perspectives, or fragmented narratives.

• Slow-paced, reflective storytelling: Instead of focusing on fast-paced action, literary fiction is more reflective. This slower pace allows for in-depth exploration of themes.

6. Literary fiction as an experience

• Open-ended or ambiguous conclusions: Unlike a typical page-turner, literary fiction doesn’t always wrap things up neatly. Endings might be open-ended, encouraging the reader to interpret the characters’ future for themselves.

• Book awards and recognition: Literary fiction often garners significant acclaim, winning prestigious awards like the Pulitzer Prize and the Booker Prize. These works are highly regarded for their artistic merit rather than their commercial appeal.

• Book reviews and critical acclaim: The New York Times and other respected publications frequently feature literary fiction in their book reviews, praising the unique, thought-provoking qualities that make these stories stand out. Whether written by a bestselling author or a debut novelist, the focus remains on the quality of storytelling rather than mass-market appeal.

7. Blending genre elements thoughtfully

• Combining genres with literary depth: Literary fiction often blends elements from other genres while maintaining a focus on character depth and thematic exploration. For instance, a dystopian setting might serve as the backdrop, but the narrative focus remains on the characters’ emotional journey rather than pure survival.

• Standalone greats: Literary fiction can be presented as a novella or a full-length novel, with an emphasis not only on creating the best book but also on crafting an enduring story that resonates with readers. Classics like The Great Gatsby provide rich, timeless reflections on ambition, love, and societal pressures.

In literary fiction, the emphasis isn’t just on what happens but on how it happens and why it matters. The focus on deep, character-driven stories and rich, meaningful language is what sets serious fiction apart from more plot-focused genres. Whether it’s a contemporary novel or a prize-winning classic, literary fiction aims to leave readers not just entertained, but deeply moved.

How to write excellent literary fiction

Writing excellent literary fiction requires attention to the layers that make a story both thought-provoking and emotionally impactful. It’s about combining narrative depth with artistic expression, creating a piece that lingers in the minds of readers long after they’ve put the book down.

Here are the key strategies to help you craft exceptional literary fiction.

1. Develop complex characters

To write good literary fiction, you need characters that feel as multidimensional as real people. In literary fiction novels, characters aren’t just moving from one plot point to the next—they embody the intricate motivations, flaws, and desires that make them human.

A good example of a complex character can be found in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale. The protagonist, Offred, isn’t a simple hero; she is someone caught between survival and resistance, displaying vulnerability, fear, and moments of courage. Her experiences reflect real emotional turmoil, and her actions are shaped by her conflicted morality and the oppressive world she lives in. This complexity is what makes her a powerful character.

2. Explore the depths of human experience

To write compelling literary fiction, you need to dig deeply into the human experience. Move beyond the plot and focus on what makes your characters tick—delve into their emotions, the complexities of their relationships, and the psychological motivations that drive their actions.

Aim to uncover the fears, desires, and regrets that shape their choices, even if those emotions are never openly articulated. This exploration is what makes a character feel genuine and relatable, revealing the universal truths of the human condition.

A good example of this approach can be seen in Kazuo Ishiguro’s The Remains of the Day. The protagonist, Stevens, is a British butler who reflects on his life, grappling with regret, lost opportunities, and the consequences of his unwavering dedication to duty. His journey is not about external adventure but an internal reckoning, where he examines his past choices and what they have cost him. This quiet but profound narrative exemplifies the literary merit that characterizes a significant work of literary fiction—an exploration of deeply personal and universal themes.

3. Master evocative language and style

Your goal in literary fiction is not just to tell a story, but to make the language itself an experience—one that resonates, paints vivid pictures, and evokes strong emotions.

This means using rich imagery, carefully chosen metaphors, and rhythms that match the mood of your scenes. Great literary fiction doesn’t just narrate events; it makes readers feel every word.

A good example of mastering evocative language is found in Beloved by Toni Morrison. Morrison’s prose is lyrical and haunting, using powerful imagery to convey the pain, beauty, and complexity of her characters’ experiences. Each line is crafted with care, capturing not only the physical world but also the emotional landscape of the characters.

4. Create internal conflict

In literary fiction, what happens inside your character’s mind is often more compelling than the events happening around them. Internal conflict adds depth, making your character’s journey relatable and emotionally resonant.

This means giving your characters struggles that they face within themselves—regrets, insecurities, moral dilemmas, or desires that clash with their circumstances. Unlike genre novels, which tend to focus on external challenges like defeating villains or overcoming physical obstacles, literary fiction thrives on the psychological and emotional battles your characters wage.

An example can be found in Ian McEwan’s Atonement, where Briony’s internal conflict—her guilt and search for atonement after making a devastating mistake—drives the entire story. This exploration of personal failure and emotional reckoning gives the book a powerful undercurrent of tension that keeps readers engaged and makes for a memorable read.

5. Experiment with narrative structure

By experimenting with narrative structure, you can create a more engaging and thought-provoking experience for readers.

Unlike traditional genre novels, which generally stick to a linear and familiar structure, literary fiction allows for innovative storytelling approaches, including fragmented timelines, multiple perspectives, or nonlinear sequences. Playing with structure not only challenges you as a writer but also invites readers to experience your story in a fresh and often more immersive way.

Consider how Jennifer Egan’s A Visit from the Goon Squad uses a non-linear format, switching perspectives and time periods to explore the lives of interconnected characters. This fragmented storytelling style invites readers to piece together the narrative themselves. Each shift in perspective offers a new lens on the characters and themes, making the reading experience both challenging and rewarding.

Such structural experimentation draws readers in, and it’s something a bookseller can enthusiastically recommend as a unique reading journey.

6. Use symbolism and subtext effectively

Symbolism and subtext are powerful tools in literary fiction that can add layers of meaning to your story. Instead of stating things outright, symbolism allows you to communicate deeper themes and emotions through objects, imagery, or recurring motifs, while subtext lets the reader infer what lies beneath the surface of dialogue or action.

A great example of effective symbolism is in J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye. Throughout the novel, Holden Caulfield—an emotionally struggling teenager—fixates on the image of the “catcher in the rye.”

This symbolizes his desire to protect innocence and prevent others from falling into the harsh realities of adulthood. The symbolism of the catcher represents Holden’s internal battle with growing up and his longing to preserve purity, which is never directly stated but deeply felt by readers. The recurring references to the rye field act as a window into Holden’s true fears and desires, providing a rich subtext that makes his story resonate.

7. Reflect real-life complexity

Literary fiction is known for its ability to reflect the messiness and intricacy of real life. Rather than presenting simple, clear-cut solutions or heroes, literary fiction embraces the complexity of human emotions, ethical dilemmas, and conflicting motivations.

To create this depth, your characters should face problems that don’t have easy answers and make decisions that are influenced by their flaws, past experiences, and the world around them. By embracing these nuances, you can create stories that feel more authentic and relatable.

A powerful example of this is in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. Atticus Finch, a white man living in the racially divided South, takes on the defense of a Black man falsely accused of a crime. The moral complexity of Atticus’s position—balancing his duty as a lawyer, his role as a father, and his values as an ethical human being—reflects the broader social tensions and moral ambiguities of his time. His character is nuanced, grappling with both societal expectations and personal conviction, which makes him feel incredibly real and relatable.

8. Choose thought-provoking themes

When choosing themes for your own literary work, think about what truly matters to you—issues that you want your readers to reflect on.

Thought-provoking themes don’t have to provide answers; they’re often most powerful when they pose questions and leave readers to grapple with their complexities. Whether you explore personal identity, moral conflict, or societal injustice, make your themes resonate deeply, giving your story both purpose and a lasting emotional impact.

A great example of this is in George Orwell’s 1984, which explores themes of totalitarianism, freedom, and the manipulation of truth. The book’s depiction of a dystopian society controlled by propaganda and surveillance challenges readers to reflect on the fragility of freedom and the dangers of unchecked power. Winston Smith, an ordinary man caught in the terrifying grip of a totalitarian regime, becomes a vehicle for Orwell’s exploration of these themes, making readers consider how societies can be manipulated and how fragile personal autonomy can be.

9. Nurture your authentic voice

Nurturing your authentic voice involves embracing your own perspective and using it consistently throughout the narrative. This means avoiding imitations of popular styles and instead focusing on the natural rhythm, vocabulary, and expression that best fit your characters and themes.

An excellent example of an authentic voice in literary fiction is found in Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston. Hurston’s use of dialect brings the protagonist Janie Crawford’s journey to life, making the reader feel the texture of her world and emotions. The distinct voice in the novel doesn’t just tell the story—it creates a sense of intimacy and authenticity that makes Janie’s experiences feel real and immersive. Hurston’s narrative voice stands out because it reflects a cultural richness and emotional honesty that other styles couldn’t capture as effectively.

10. Embrace ambiguous endings

One of the hallmarks of literary fiction is its willingness to leave readers with questions rather than neatly tied-up conclusions. Ambiguous endings create a lasting impression, inviting readers to reflect on the themes of the story, consider alternate outcomes, or project their own experiences onto the characters.

A powerful example of an ambiguous ending is found in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. At the novel’s conclusion, Nick Carraway reflects on Gatsby’s life and tragic death, and the story ends on an introspective note about the American Dream and the inevitability of the past catching up with us. There is no clear resolution, no justice served, and no definitive answer about what it all means—only Nick’s contemplations and a sense of melancholy. This ending invites readers to ponder Gatsby’s choices, the corruption of dreams, and what lies beneath the surface of ambition and desire, making it one of the most thought-provoking endings in literary fiction.

11. Balance storytelling with artistry

In literary fiction, the art is in finding the perfect balance between telling a compelling story and creating a work that’s artistically rich. While the plot and character development are essential, the way the story is told—through evocative language, imagery, and symbolism—is equally important.

The challenge lies in ensuring that the story remains engaging without sacrificing the artistic expression that gives it depth and beauty.

A prime example of balancing storytelling with artistry is found in Virginia Woolf’s To the Lighthouse. Woolf uses stream-of-consciousness narrative techniques and deeply poetic language to delve into the thoughts and emotions of her characters. The novel tells the story of the Ramsay family, capturing their everyday struggles and relationships, but it’s the reflective, beautifully crafted prose that makes the narrative so memorable. Woolf balances the inner workings of her characters’ minds with the unfolding events around them, making the story compelling on both an emotional and artistic level.