Literature is a vast universe with several layers, each accounting for a different century, culture and generation. Within this vast universe, there are thousands of genres that we may or may not know. From some really bizarre genres like Dadaism which introduced the lesser known ‘cut up technique’ to the better known ones, such as magical realism; We bring to you a list of four such literary genres that we found to be interesting, genres that not everyone would generally know:
Bangsian: The Bangsian genre in fiction is named after John Kendrick Bangs, a popular writer of this fantasy genre, in which popular historical figures interact with the afterlife. Bangs is not the first writer who wrote this but his writings were what gave it a concrete shape. There are three main categories that Bangsian stories fall into: ghosts stuck in the living world, living people stuck in the world of the dead, and people who have died in Heaven (or Hell).
If this appeals to you, the following works will definitely be of interest:
The Ghost Bride by Yangsze Choo
Damned by Chuck Palahniuk
God Bless You, Dr Kevorkian by Kurt Vonnegut
Shenmo: Shenmo is another genre in fiction, also known as ‘Gods and Demons’ fantasy with its foundation being - Chinese mythology. The word ‘shenmo xiaoshuo’ literally means, ‘fiction of gods and demons’ and was coined in the 20th century by writer and literary historian Lu Xun. Shenmo Fantasy is a sub-genre featuring the deities, immortals, and monsters of Chinese mythology. Shenmo stories are written in a vernacular style; based on spoken Chinese rather than Classical Chinese.
This fascinating genre can be found in the following works:
Journey to the West by We Cheng’en
The Investiture of the Gods by Xu Zhonglin
Hard-boiled Fiction: Even though this genre shares the setting and characters of crime fiction, it is more realistic in nature. Detectives in hard-boiled fiction are much more cynical and somber, the (usually urban) setting is seedier, and the writing is more graphic and violent. The dialogue is quick and filled with slang.
Hard Boiled Fiction may not be a good read for everyone; hence, the name, perhaps. However, if you may be interested in genres as such, here’s one work you would love to read: The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler
Wuxia: Wuxia, which literally means "martial heroes", is another genre from Chinese fiction, concerning the adventures of martial artists in ancient China. Traditionally written as fantasy literature, it has evolved throughout centuries; From books to television to the big screen, this genre of honour, swords, sorcery with hints of poetry and love has made its presence known everywhere.
If a world filled with swords, adventure and heroism sounds like something which fascinates you, do read up about Jin Yong, who remains to be one of the most recognised writers of this genre.
Tanishka Singhal
Editor, Redstockings Chronicle
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