write a brief essay on genres of literature

Literary Genres: Definition and Examples of the 4 Essential Genres and 100+ Subgenres

by Joe Bunting | 1 comment

What are literary genres? Do they actually matter to readers? How about to writers? What types of literary genres exist? And if you're a writer, how do you decide which genre to write in?

Literary Genres: Definition and Examples of the 4 Essential Genres and 100+ Subgenres

To begin to think about literary genres, let's start with an example.

Let's say want to read something. You go to a bookstore or hop onto a store online or go to a library.

But instead of a nice person wearing reading glasses and a cardigan asking you what books you like and then thinking through every book ever written to find you the next perfect read (if that person existed, for the record, they would be my favorite person), you're faced with this: rows and rows of books with labels on the shelves like “Literary Fiction,” “Travel,” “Reference,” “Science Fiction,” and so on.

You stop at the edge of the bookstore and just stand there for a while, stumped. “What do all of these labels even mean?!” And then you walk out of the store.

Or maybe you're writing a book , and someone asks you a question like this: “What kind of book are you writing? What genre is it?”

And you stare at them in frustration thinking, “My book transcends genre, convention, and even reality, obviously. Don't you dare put my genius in a box!”

What are literary genres? In this article, we'll share the definition and different types of literary genres (there are four main ones but thousands of subgenres). Then, we'll talk about why genre matters to both readers and writers. We'll look at some of the components that people use to categorize writing into genres. Finally, we'll give you a chance to put genre into practice with an exercise .

Introduction Literary Genres Definition Why Genre Matters (to Readers, to Writers) The 4 Essential Genres 100+ Genres and Subgenres The 7 Components of Genre Practice Exercise

Ready to get started? Let's get into it.

What Are Literary Genres? Literary Genre Definition

Let's begin with a basic definition of literary genres:

Literary genres are categories, types, or collections of literature. They often share characteristics, such as their subject matter or topic, style, form, purpose, or audience.

That's our formal definition. But here's a simpler way of thinking about it:

Genre is a way of categorizing readers' tastes.

That's a good basic definition of genre. But does genre really matter?

Why Literary Genres Matter

Literary genres matter. They matter to readers but they also matter to writers. Here's why:

Why Literary Genres Matter to Readers

Think about it. You like to read (or watch) different things than your parents.

You probably also like to read different things at different times of the day. For example, maybe you read the news in the morning, listen to an audiobook of a nonfiction book related to your studies or career in the afternoon, and read a novel or watch a TV show in the evening.

Even more, you probably read different things now than you did as a child or than you will want to read twenty years from now.

Everyone has different tastes.

Genre is one way we match what readers want to what writers want to write and what publishers are publishing.

It's also not a new thing. We've been categorizing literature like this for thousands of years. Some of the oldest forms of writing, including religious texts, were tied directly into this idea of genre.

For example, forty percent of the Old Testament in the Bible is actually poetry, one of the four essential literary genres. Much of the New Testament is in the form of epistle, a subgenre that's basically a public letter.

Genre matters, and by understanding how genre works, you not only can find more things you want to read, you can also better understand what the writer (or publisher) is trying to do.

Why Literary Genres Matter to Writers

Genre isn't just important to readers. It's extremely important to writers too.

In the same way the literary genres better help readers find things they want to read and better understand a writer's intentions, genres inform writers of readers' expectations and also help writers find an audience.

If you know that there are a lot of readers of satirical political punditry (e.g. The Onion ), then you can write more of that kind of writing and thus find more readers and hopefully make more money. Genre can help you find an audience.

At the same time, great writers have always played with and pressed the boundaries of genre, sometimes even subverting it for the sake of their art.

Another way to think about genre is a set of expectations from the reader. While it's important to meet some of those expectations, if you meet too many, the reader will get bored and feel like they know exactly what's going to happen next. So great writers will always play to the readers' expectations and then change a few things completely to give readers a sense of novelty in the midst of familiarity.

This is not unique to writers, by the way. The great apparel designer Virgil Abloh, who was an artistic director at Louis Vuitton until he passed away tragically in 2021, had a creative template called the “3% Rule,” where he would take an existing design, like a pair of Nike Air Jordans, and make a three percent change to it, transforming it into something completely new. His designs were incredibly successful, often selling for thousands of dollars.

This process of taking something familiar and turning it into something new with a slight change is something artists have done throughout history, including writers, and it's a great way to think about how to use genre for your own writing.

What Literary Genre is NOT: Story Type vs. Literary Genres

Before we talk more about the types of genre, let's discuss what genre is not .

Genre is not the same as story type (or for nonfiction, types of nonfiction structure). There are ten (or so) types of stories, including adventure, love story, mystery, and coming of age, but there are hundreds, even thousands of genres.

Story type and nonfiction book structure are about how the work is structured.

Genre is about how the work is perceived and marketed.

These are related but not the same.

For example, one popular subgenre of literature is science fiction. Probably the most common type of science fiction story is adventure, but you can also have mystery sci-fi stories, love story sci-fi, and even morality sci-fi. Story type transcends genre.

You can learn more about this in my book The Write Structure , which teaches writers the simple process to structure great stories. Click to check out The Write Structure .

This is true for non-fiction as well in different ways. More on this in my post on the seven types of nonfiction books .

Now that we've addressed why genre matters and what genre doesn't include, let's get into the different literary genres that exist (there are a lot of them!).

How Many Literary Genres Are There? The 4 Essential Genres, and 100+ Genres and Subgenres

Just as everyone has different tastes, so there are genres to fit every kind of specific reader.

There are four essential literary genres, and all are driven by essential questions. Then, within each of those essential genres are genres and subgenres. We will look at all of these in turn, below, as well as several examples of each.

An important note: There are individual works that fit within the gaps of these four essential genres or even cross over into multiple genres.

As with anything, the edges of these categories can become blurry, for example narrative poetry or fictional reference books.

A general rule: You know it when you see it (except, of course, when the author is trying to trick you!).

1. Nonfiction: Is it true?

The core question for nonfiction is, “Is it true?”

Nonfiction deals with facts, instruction, opinion/argument reference, narrative nonfiction, or a combination.

A few examples of nonfiction (more below): reference, news, memoir, manuals, religious inspirational books, self-help, business, and many more.

2. Fiction: Is it, at some level, imagined?

The core question for fiction is, “Is it, at some level, imagined?”

Fiction is almost always story or narrative. However, satire is a form of “fiction” that's structured like nonfiction opinion/essays or news. And one of the biggest insults you can give to a journalist, reporter, or academic researcher is to suggest that their work is “fiction.”

3. Drama: Is it performed?

Drama is a genre of literature that has some kind of performance component. This includes theater, film, and audio plays.

The core question that defines drama is, “Is it performed?”

As always, there are genres within this essential genre, including horror films, thrillers, true crime podcasts, and more.

4. Poetry: Is it verse?

Poetry is in some ways the most challenging literary genre to define because while poetry is usually based on form, i.e. lines intentionally broken into verse, sometimes including rhyme or other poetic devices, there are some “poems” that are written completely in prose called prose poetry. These are only considered poems because the author and/or literary scholars said they were poems.

To confuse things even more, you also have narrative poetry, which combines fiction and poetry, and song which combines poetry and performance (or drama) with music.

Which is all to say, poetry is challenging to classify, but again, you usually know it when you see it.

Next, let's talk about the genres and subgenres within those four essential literary genres.

The 100+ Literary Genres and Subgenres with Definitions

Genre is, at its core, subjective. It's literally based on the tastes of readers, tastes that change over time, within markets, and across cultures.

Thus, there are essentially an infinite number of genres.

Even more, genres are constantly shifting. What is considered contemporary fiction today will change a decade from now.

So take the lists below (and any list of genres you see) as an incomplete, likely outdated, small sample size of genre with definitions.

1. Fiction Genres

Sorted alphabetically.

Action/Adventure. An action/adventure story has adventure elements in its plot line. This type of story often involves some kind of conflict between good and evil, and features characters who must overcome obstacles to achieve their goals .

Chick Lit. Chick Lit stories are usually written for women who interested in lighthearted stories that still have some depth. They often include romance, humor, and drama in their plots.

Comedy. This typically refers to historical stories and plays (e.g. Shakespeare, Greek Literature, etc) that contain a happy ending, often with a wedding.

Commercial. Commercial stories have been written for the sole purpose of making money, often in an attempt to cash in on the success of another book, film, or genre.

Crime/Police/Detective Fiction. Crime and police stories feature a detective, whether amateur or professional, who solves crimes using their wits and knowledge of criminal psychology.

Drama or Tragedy. This typically refers to historical stories or plays (e.g. Shakespeare, Greek Literature, etc) that contain a sad or tragic ending, often with one or more deaths.

Erotica. Erotic stories contain explicit sexual descriptions in their narratives.

Espionage. Espionage stories focus on international intrigue, usually involving governments, spies, secret agents, and/or terrorist organizations. They often involve political conflict, military action, sabotage, terrorism, assassination, kidnapping, and other forms of covert operations.

Family Saga. Family sagas focus on the lives of an extended family, sometimes over several generations. Rather than having an individual protagonist, the family saga tells the stories of multiple main characters or of the family as a whole.

Fantasy. Fantasy stories are set in imaginary worlds that often feature magic, mythical creatures, and fantastic elements. They may be based on mythology, folklore, religion, legend, history, or science fiction.

General Fiction. General fiction novels are those that deal with individuals and relationships in an ordinary setting. They may be set in any time period, but usually take place in modern times.

Graphic Novel. Graphic novels are a hybrid between comics and prose fiction that often includes elements of both.

Historical Fiction. Historical stories are written about imagined or actual events that occurred in history. They usually take place during specific periods of time and often include real or imaginary characters who lived at those times.

Horror Genre. Horror stories focus on the psychological terror experienced by their characters. They often feature supernatural elements, such as ghosts, vampires, werewolves, zombies, demons, monsters, and aliens.

Humor/Satire. This category includes stories that have been written using satire or contain comedic elements. Satirical novels tend to focus on some aspect of society in a critical way.

LGBTQ+. LGBTQ+ novels are those that feature characters who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or otherwise non-heterosexual.

Literary Fiction. Literary fiction novels or stories have a high degree of artistic merit, a unique or experimental style of writing , and often deal with serious themes.

Military. Military stories deal with war, conflict, combat, or similar themes and often have strong action elements. They may be set in a contemporary or a historical period.

Multicultural. Multicultural stories are written by and about people who have different cultural backgrounds, including those that may be considered ethnic minorities.

Mystery G enre. Mystery stories feature an investigation into a crime.

Offbeat/Quirky. An offbeat story has an unusual plot, characters, setting, style, tone, or point of view. Quirkiness can be found in any aspect of a story, but often comes into play when the author uses unexpected settings, time periods, or characters.

Picture Book. Picture book novels are usually written for children and feature simple plots and colorful illustrations . They often have a moral or educational purpose.

Religious/Inspirational. Religious/ inspirational stories describe events in the life of a person who was inspired by God or another supernatural being to do something extraordinary. They usually have a moral lesson at their core.

Romance Genre. Romance novels or stories are those that focus on love between two people, often in an ideal setting. There are many subgenres in romance, including historical, contemporary, paranormal, and others.

Science Fiction. Science fiction stories are usually set in an imaginary future world, often involving advanced technology. They may be based on scientific facts but they are not always.

Short Story Collection . Short story collections contain several short stories written by the same or different authors.

Suspense or Thriller Genre. Thrillers/ suspense stories are usually about people in danger, often involving crimes, natural disasters, or terrorism.

Upmarket. Upmarket stories are often written for and/or focus on upper class people who live in an upscale environment.

Western Genre. Western stories are those that take place in the west during the late 19th century and early 20th century. Characters include cowboys, outlaws, native Americans, and settlers.

2. Nonfiction Genres

From the BISAC categories, a globally accepted system for coding and categorizing books by the Book Industry Standards And Communications group.

Antiques & Collectibles. Nonfiction books about antiques and collectibles include those that focus on topics such as collecting, appraising, restoring, and marketing antiques and collectibles. These books may be written for both collectors and dealers in antique and collectible items. They can range from how-to guides to detailed histories of specific types of objects.

Architecture. Architecture books focus on the design, construction, use, and history of buildings and structures. This includes the study of architecture in general, but also the specific designs of individual buildings or styles of architecture.

Art. Art books focus on visual arts, music, literature, dance, film, theater, architecture, design, fashion, food, and other art forms. They may include essays, memoirs, biographies, interviews, criticism, and reviews.

Bibles. Bibles are religious books, almost exclusively Christian, that contain the traditional Bible in various translations, often with commentary or historical context.

Biography & Autobiography. Biography is an account of a person's life, often a historical or otherwise famous person. Autobiographies are personal accounts of people's lives written by themselves.

Body, Mind & Spirt. These books focus on topics related to human health, wellness, nutrition, fitness, or spirituality.

Business & Economics. Business & economics books are about how businesses work. They tend to focus on topics that interest people who run their own companies, lead or manage others, or want to understand how the economy works.

Computers. The computer genre of nonfiction books includes any topics that deal with computers in some way. They can be about general use, about how they affect our lives, or about specific technical areas related to hardware or software.

Cooking. Cookbooks contain recipes or cooking techniques.

Crafts & Hobbies. How-to guides for crafts and hobbies, including sewing, knitting, painting, baking, woodworking, jewelry making, scrapbooking, photography, gardening, home improvement projects, and others.

Design. Design books are written about topics that include design in some way. They can be about any aspect of design including graphic design, industrial design, product design, fashion, furniture, interior design, or others.

Education. Education books focus on topics related to teaching and learning in schools. They can be used for students or as a resource for teachers.

Family & Relationships. These books focus on family relationships, including parenting, marriage, divorce, adoption, and more.

Foreign Language Study. Books that act as a reference or guide to learning a foreign language.

Games & Activities. Games & activities books may be published for children or adults, may contain learning activities or entertaining word or puzzle games. They range from joke books to crossword puzzle books to coloring books and more.

Gardening. Gardening books include those that focus on aspects of gardening, how to prepare for and grow vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers, trees, shrubs, grasses, and other plants in an indoor or outdoor garden setting.

Health & Fitness. Health and fitness books focus on topics like dieting, exercise, nutrition, weight loss, health issues, medical conditions, diseases, medications, herbs, supplements, vitamins, minerals, and more.

History. History books focus on historical events and people, and may be written for entertainment or educational purposes.

House & Home. House & home books focus on topics like interior design, decorating, entertaining, and DIY projects.

Humor. Humor books are contain humorous elements but do not have any fictional elements.

Juvenile Nonfiction. These are nonfiction books written for children between six and twelve years old.

Language Arts & Disciplines. These books focus on teaching language arts and disciplines. They may be used for elementary school students in grades K-5.

Law. Law books include legal treatises, casebooks, and collections of statutes.

Literary Criticism. Literary criticism books discuss literary works, primarily key works of fiction or memoir. They may include biographies of authors, critical essays on specific works, or studies of the history of literature.

Mathematics. Mathematics books either teach mathematical concepts and methods or explore the history of mathematics.

Medical. Medical books include textbooks, reference books, guides, encyclopedias, and handbooks that focus on fields of medicine, including general practice, internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, and more.

Music. Music books are books that focus on the history, culture, and development of music in various countries around the world. They often include biographies, interviews, reviews, essays, and other related material. However, they may also include sheet music or instruction on playing a specific instrument.

Nature. Nature books focus on the natural world or environment, including natural history, ecology, or natural experiences like hiking, bird watching, or conservation.

Performing Arts. Books about the performing arts in general, including specific types of performance art like dance, music, and theater.

Pets. Pet books include any book that deals with animals in some way, including dog training, cat care, animal behavior, pet nutrition, bird care, and more.

Philosophy. Philosophy books deal with philosophical issues, and may be written for a general audience or specifically for scholars.

Photography. Photography books use photographs as an essential part of their content. They may be about any subject.

Political Science. Political science books deal with politics in some way. They can be about current events, historical figures, or theoretical concepts.

Psychology. Psychology books are about the scientific study of mental processes, emotion, and behavior.

Reference. Reference books are about any subject, topic, or field and contain useful information about that subject, topic or field.

Religion. These books deal with religion in some way, including religious history, theology, philosophy, and spirituality.

Science. Science books focus on topics within scientific fields, including geology, biology, physics, and more.

Self-Help. Self-help books are written for people who want to improve their lives in some way. They may be about health, relationships, finances, career, parenting, spirituality, or any number of topics that can help readers achieve personal goals.

Social Science. Focus on social science topics.

Sports & Recreation. Sports & Recreation books focus on sports either from a reporting, historical, or instructional perspective.

Study Aids. Study aids are books that provide information about a particular subject area for students who want to learn more about that topic. These books can be used in conjunction with classroom instruction or on their own.

Technology & Engineering. Technology & engineering nonfiction books describe how technology has changed our lives and how we can use that knowledge to improve ourselves and society.

Transportation. Focus on transportation topics including those about vehicles, routes, or techniques.

Travel. Travel books are those that focus on travel experiences, whether from a guide perspective or from the author's personal experiences.

True Crime. True Crime books focus on true stories about crimes. These books may be about famous cases, unsolved crimes, or specific criminals.

Young Adult Nonfiction. Young adult nonfiction books are written for children and teenagers.

3. Drama Genres

These include genres for theater, film, television serials, or audio plays.

As a writer, I find some of these genres particularly eye-roll worthy. And yet, this is the way most films, television shows, and even theater productions are classified.

Action. Action genre dramas involve fast-paced, high-energy sequences in which characters fight against each other. They often have large-scale battles, chase scenes, or other high-intensity, high-conflict scenes.

Horror. Horror dramas focus on the psychological terror experienced by their characters. They often feature supernatural elements, such as ghosts, vampires, werewolves, zombies, demons, monsters, and aliens.

Adventure. Adventure films are movies that have an adventurous theme. They may be set in exotic locations, feature action sequences, and/or contain elements of fantasy.

Musicals (Dance). Musicals are dramas that use music in their plot and/or soundtrack. They may be comedies, dramas, or any combination.

Comedy (& Black Comedy). Comedy dramas feature humor in their plots, characters, dialogue, or situations. It sometimes refers to historical dramas (e.g. Shakespeare, Greek drama, etc) that contain a happy ending, often with a wedding.

Science Fiction. Science fiction dramas are usually set in an imaginary future world, often involving advanced technology. They may be based on scientific facts but do not have to be.

Crime & Gangster. Crime & Gangster dramas deal with criminals, detectives, or organized crime groups. They often feature action sequences, violence, and mystery elements.

War (Anti-War). War (or anti-war) dramas focus on contemporary or historical wars. They may also contain action, adventure, mystery, or romance elements.

Drama. Dramas focus on human emotions in conflict situations. They often have complex plots and characters, and deal with serious themes. This may also refer to historical stories (e.g. Shakespeare, Greek Literature, etc) that contain a sad or tragic ending, often with one or more deaths.

Westerns. Westerns are a genre of American film that originated in the early 20th century and take place in the west during the late 19th century and early 20th century. Characters include cowboys, outlaws, native Americans, and settlers.

Epics/Historical/Period. These are dramas based on historical events or periods but do not necessarily involve any real people.

Biographical (“Biopics”). Biopics films are movies that focus on real people in history.

Melodramas, Women's or “Weeper” Films, Tearjerkers. A type of narrative drama that focuses on emotional issues, usually involving love, loss, tragedy, and redemption.

“Chick” Flicks. Chick flicks usually feature romantic relationships and tend to be lighthearted and comedic in nature.

Road Stories. Dramas involving a journey of some kind, usually taking place in contemporary setting, and involving relationships between one or more people, not necessarily romantic.

Courtroom Dramas. Courtroom dramas depict legal cases set in courtrooms. They usually have a dramatic plot line with an interesting twist at the end.

Romance. Romance dramas feature love stories between two people. Romance dramas tend to be more serious, even tragic, in nature, while romantic comedies tend to be more lighthearted.

Detective & Mystery. These dramas feature amateur or professional investigators solving crimes and catching criminals.

Sports. Sports dramas focus on athletic competition in its many forms and usually involve some kind of climactic tournament or championship.

Disaster. Disaster dramas are adventure or action dramas that include natural disasters, usually involving earthquakes, floods, volcanoes, hurricanes, tornadoes, or other disasters.

Superhero. Superhero dramas are action/adventure dramas that feature characters with supernatural powers. They usually have an origin story, the rise of a villain, and a climactic battle at the end.

Fantasy. Fantasy dramas films are typically adventure dramas that feature fantastical elements in their plot or setting, whether magic, folklore, supernatural creatures, or other fantasy elements.

Supernatural. Supernatural dramas feature paranormal phenomena in their plots, including ghosts, mythical creatures, and mysterious or extraordinary elements. This genre may overlap with horror, fantasy, thriller, action and other genres.

Film Noir. Film noir refers to a style of American crime drama that emerged in the 1940s. These dramas often featured cynical characters who struggled, often fruitlessly, against corruption and injustice.

Thriller/Suspense. Thriller/suspense dramas have elements of suspense and mystery in their plot. They usually feature a character protagonist who must overcome obstacles while trying to solve a crime or prevent a catastrophe.

Guy Stories. Guy dramas feature men in various situations, usually humorous or comedic in nature.

Zombie . Zombie dramas are usually action/adventure dramas that involve zombies.

Animated Stories . Dramas that are depicted with drawings, photographs, stop-motion, CGI, or other animation techniques.

Documentary . Documentaries are non-fiction performances that attempt to describe actual events, topics, or people.

“Foreign.” Any drama not in the language of or involving characters/topics in your country of origin. They can also have any of the other genres listed here.

Childrens – Kids – Family-Oriented . Dramas with children of various ages as the intended audience.

Sexual – Erotic . These dramas feature explicit sexual acts but also have some kind of plot or narrative (i.e. not pornography).

Classic . Classic dramas refer to dramas performed before 1950.

Silent . Silent dramas were an early form of film that used no recorded sound.

Cult . Cult dramas are usually small-scale, independent productions with an offbeat plot, unusual characters, and/or unconventional style that have nevertheless gained popularity among a specific audience.

4. Poetry Genres

This list is from Harvard's Glossary of Poetic Genres who also has definitions for each genre.

Dramatic monologue

Epithalamion

Light verse

Occasional verse

Verse epistle

What Are the Components of Genre In Literature? The 7 Elements of Genre

Now that we've looked, somewhat exhaustively, at examples of literary genres, let's consider how these genres are created.

What are the elements of literary genre? How are they formed?

Here are seven components that make up genre.

Form . Length is the main component of form (e.g. a novel is 200+ pages , films are at least an hour, serialized episodes are about 20 minutes, etc), but may also be determined by how many acts or plot lines they have. You might be asking, what about short stories? Short stories are a genre defined by their length but not their content.
Intended Audience . Is the story meant for adults, children, teenagers, etc?
Conventions and Tropes . Conventions and tropes describe patterns or predictable events that have developed within genres. For example, a sports story may have a big tournament at the climax, or a fantasy story may have a mentor character who instructs the protagonist on the use of their abilities.
Characters and Archetypes. Genre will often have characters who serve similar functions, like the best friend sidekick, the evil villain , the anti-hero , and other character archetypes .
Common Settings and Time Periods . Genre may be defined by the setting or time period. For example, stories set in the future tend to be labelled science fiction, stories involving the past tend to be labelled historical or period, etc.
Common Story Arcs . While every story type may use each of the six main story arcs , genre tends to be defined by specific story arcs. For example, comedy almost always has a story arc that ends positively, same with kids or family genres. However, dramas often (and when referring to historical drama, always) have stories that end tragically.
Common Elements (such as supernatural elements, technology, mythical creatures, monsters, etc) . Some genres center themselves on specific elements, like supernatural creatures, magic, monsters, gore, and so on. Genre can be determined by these common elements.

As you consider these elements, keep in mind that genre all comes back to taste, to what readers want to consume and how to match the unlimited variations of story with the infinite variety of tastes.

Read What You Want, Write What You Want

In the end, both readers and writers should use genre for what it is, a tool, not as something that defines you.

Writers can embrace genre, can use genre, without being controlled by it.

Readers can use genre to find stories or books they enjoy while also exploring works outside of that genre.

Genre can be incredibly fun! But only if you hold it in tension with your own work of telling (or finding) a great story.

What are your favorite genres to read in? to write in? Let us know in the comments!

Now that we understand everything there is to know about literary genres, let's put our knowledge to use with an exercise. I have two variations for you today, one for readers and one for writers.

Readers : Think of one of your favorite stories. What is the literary genre of that story? Does it have multiple? What expectations do you have about stories within that genre? Finally, how does the author of your favorite story use those expectations, and how do they subvert them?

Writers : Choose a literary genre from the list above and spend fifteen minutes writing a story using the elements of genre: form, audience, conventions and tropes, characters and archetypes, setting and time periods, story arcs, and common elements.

When you’re finished, share your work in the Pro Practice Workshop here . Not a member yet? Join us here !

Joe Bunting

Joe Bunting is an author and the leader of The Write Practice community. He is also the author of the new book Crowdsourcing Paris , a real life adventure story set in France. It was a #1 New Release on Amazon. Follow him on Instagram (@jhbunting).

Want best-seller coaching? Book Joe here.

So how big does an other-genre element need to get before you call your book “cross-genre”? Right now, I’m writing a superhero team saga (which is already a challenge for platforms that don’t recognize “superhero” as a genre, since my team’s powers lie in that fuzzy land where the distinction between science and magic gets more than a little blurry), so it obviously has action/adventure in it, but it’s also sprouting thriller and mystery elements. I’m wondering if they’re big enough to plug the series to those genres.

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Definition of Genre

When I fall in love, it will be forever.

Difference Between Style and Genre

Common examples of genre, common examples of fiction genre, examples of writers associated with specific genre fiction, famous examples of genre in other art forms, examples of genre in literature, example 1: macbeth by william shakespeare.

Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow , Creeps in this petty pace from day to day To the last syllable of recorded time, And all our yesterdays have lighted fools The way to dusty death. Out, out , brief candle! Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player That struts and frets his hour upon the stage And then is heard no more: it is a tale Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, Signifying nothing.

Example 2: The Color Purple by Alice Walker

All my life I had to fight. I had to fight my daddy . I had to fight my brothers. I had to fight my cousins and my uncles. A girl child ain’t safe in a family of men. But I never thought I’d have to fight in my own house. She let out her breath. I loves Harpo, she say. God knows I do. But I’ll kill him dead before I let him beat me.

Example 3: A Word to Husbands by Ogden Nash

To keep your marriage brimming With love in the loving cup, Whenever you’re wrong, admit it; Whenever you’re right, shut up.

Synonyms of Genre

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12.14: Sample Student Literary Analysis Essays

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Heather Ringo & Athena Kashyap
City College of San Francisco via ASCCC Open Educational Resources Initiative

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The following examples are essays where student writers focused on close-reading a literary work.

While reading these examples, ask yourself the following questions:

What is the essay's thesis statement, and how do you know it is the thesis statement?
What is the main idea or topic sentence of each body paragraph, and how does it relate back to the thesis statement?
Where and how does each essay use evidence (quotes or paraphrase from the literature)?
What are some of the literary devices or structures the essays analyze or discuss?
How does each author structure their conclusion, and how does their conclusion differ from their introduction?

Example 1: Poetry

Victoria Morillo

Instructor Heather Ringo

3 August 2022

How Nguyen’s Structure Solidifies the Impact of Sexual Violence in “The Study”

Stripped of innocence, your body taken from you. No matter how much you try to block out the instance in which these two things occurred, memories surface and come back to haunt you. How does a person, a young boy , cope with an event that forever changes his life? Hieu Minh Nguyen deconstructs this very way in which an act of sexual violence affects a survivor. In his poem, “The Study,” the poem's speaker recounts the year in which his molestation took place, describing how his memory filters in and out. Throughout the poem, Nguyen writes in free verse, permitting a structural liberation to become the foundation for his message to shine through. While he moves the readers with this poignant narrative, Nguyen effectively conveys the resulting internal struggles of feeling alone and unseen.

The speaker recalls his experience with such painful memory through the use of specific punctuation choices. Just by looking at the poem, we see that the first period doesn’t appear until line 14. It finally comes after the speaker reveals to his readers the possible, central purpose for writing this poem: the speaker's molestation. In the first half, the poem makes use of commas, em dashes, and colons, which lends itself to the idea of the speaker stringing along all of these details to make sense of this time in his life. If reading the poem following the conventions of punctuation, a sense of urgency is present here, as well. This is exemplified by the lack of periods to finalize a thought; and instead, Nguyen uses other punctuation marks to connect them. Serving as another connector of thoughts, the two em dashes give emphasis to the role memory plays when the speaker discusses how “no one [had] a face” during that time (Nguyen 9-11). He speaks in this urgent manner until the 14th line, and when he finally gets it off his chest, the pace of the poem changes, as does the more frequent use of the period. This stream-of-consciousness-like section when juxtaposed with the latter half of the poem, causes readers to slow down and pay attention to the details. It also splits the poem in two: a section that talks of the fogginess of memory then transitions into one that remembers it all.

In tandem with the fluctuating nature of memory, the utilization of line breaks and word choice help reflect the damage the molestation has had. Within the first couple of lines of the poem, the poem demands the readers’ attention when the line breaks from “floating” to “dead” as the speaker describes his memory of Little Billy (Nguyen 1-4). This line break averts the readers’ expectation of the direction of the narrative and immediately shifts the tone of the poem. The break also speaks to the effect his trauma has ingrained in him and how “[f]or the longest time,” his only memory of that year revolves around an image of a boy’s death. In a way, the speaker sees himself in Little Billy; or perhaps, he’s representative of the tragic death of his boyhood, how the speaker felt so “dead” after enduring such a traumatic experience, even referring to himself as a “ghost” that he tries to evict from his conscience (Nguyen 24). The feeling that a part of him has died is solidified at the very end of the poem when the speaker describes himself as a nine-year-old boy who’s been “fossilized,” forever changed by this act (Nguyen 29). By choosing words associated with permanence and death, the speaker tries to recreate the atmosphere (for which he felt trapped in) in order for readers to understand the loneliness that came as a result of his trauma. With the assistance of line breaks, more attention is drawn to the speaker's words, intensifying their importance, and demanding to be felt by the readers.

Most importantly, the speaker expresses eloquently, and so heartbreakingly, about the effect sexual violence has on a person. Perhaps what seems to be the most frustrating are the people who fail to believe survivors of these types of crimes. This is evident when he describes “how angry” the tenants were when they filled the pool with cement (Nguyen 4). They seem to represent how people in the speaker's life were dismissive of his assault and who viewed his tragedy as a nuisance of some sorts. This sentiment is bookended when he says, “They say, give us details , so I give them my body. / They say, give us proof , so I give them my body,” (Nguyen 25-26). The repetition of these two lines reinforces the feeling many feel in these scenarios, as they’re often left to deal with trying to make people believe them, or to even see them.

It’s important to recognize how the structure of this poem gives the speaker space to express the pain he’s had to carry for so long. As a characteristic of free verse, the poem doesn’t follow any structured rhyme scheme or meter; which in turn, allows him to not have any constraints in telling his story the way he wants to. The speaker has the freedom to display his experience in a way that evades predictability and engenders authenticity of a story very personal to him. As readers, we abandon anticipating the next rhyme, and instead focus our attention to the other ways, like his punctuation or word choice, in which he effectively tells his story. The speaker recognizes that some part of him no longer belongs to himself, but by writing “The Study,” he shows other survivors that they’re not alone and encourages hope that eventually, they will be freed from the shackles of sexual violence.

Works Cited

Nguyen, Hieu Minh. “The Study” Poets.Org. Academy of American Poets, Coffee House Press, 2018, https://poets.org/poem/study-0 .

Example 2: Fiction

Todd Goodwin

Professor Stan Matyshak

Advanced Expository Writing

Sept. 17, 20—

Poe’s “Usher”: A Mirror of the Fall of the House of Humanity

Right from the outset of the grim story, “The Fall of the House of Usher,” Edgar Allan Poe enmeshes us in a dark, gloomy, hopeless world, alienating his characters and the reader from any sort of physical or psychological norm where such values as hope and happiness could possibly exist. He fatalistically tells the story of how a man (the narrator) comes from the outside world of hope, religion, and everyday society and tries to bring some kind of redeeming happiness to his boyhood friend, Roderick Usher, who not only has physically and psychologically wasted away but is entrapped in a dilapidated house of ever-looming terror with an emaciated and deranged twin sister. Roderick Usher embodies the wasting away of what once was vibrant and alive, and his house of “insufferable gloom” (273), which contains his morbid sister, seems to mirror or reflect this fear of death and annihilation that he most horribly endures. A close reading of the story reveals that Poe uses mirror images, or reflections, to contribute to the fatalistic theme of “Usher”: each reflection serves to intensify an already prevalent tone of hopelessness, darkness, and fatalism.

It could be argued that the house of Roderick Usher is a “house of mirrors,” whose unpleasant and grim reflections create a dark and hopeless setting. For example, the narrator first approaches “the melancholy house of Usher on a dark and soundless day,” and finds a building which causes him a “sense of insufferable gloom,” which “pervades his spirit and causes an iciness, a sinking, a sickening of the heart, an undiscerned dreariness of thought” (273). The narrator then optimistically states: “I reflected that a mere different arrangement of the scene, of the details of the picture, would be sufficient to modify, or perhaps annihilate its capacity for sorrowful impression” (274). But the narrator then sees the reflection of the house in the tarn and experiences a “shudder even more thrilling than before” (274). Thus the reader begins to realize that the narrator cannot change or stop the impending doom that will befall the house of Usher, and maybe humanity. The story cleverly plays with the word reflection : the narrator sees a physical reflection that leads him to a mental reflection about Usher’s surroundings.

The narrator’s disillusionment by such grim reflection continues in the story. For example, he describes Roderick Usher’s face as distinct with signs of old strength but lost vigor: the remains of what used to be. He describes the house as a once happy and vibrant place, which, like Roderick, lost its vitality. Also, the narrator describes Usher’s hair as growing wild on his rather obtrusive head, which directly mirrors the eerie moss and straw covering the outside of the house. The narrator continually longs to see these bleak reflections as a dream, for he states: “Shaking off from my spirit what must have been a dream, I scanned more narrowly the real aspect of the building” (276). He does not want to face the reality that Usher and his home are doomed to fall, regardless of what he does.

Although there are almost countless examples of these mirror images, two others stand out as important. First, Roderick and his sister, Madeline, are twins. The narrator aptly states just as he and Roderick are entombing Madeline that there is “a striking similitude between brother and sister” (288). Indeed, they are mirror images of each other. Madeline is fading away psychologically and physically, and Roderick is not too far behind! The reflection of “doom” that these two share helps intensify and symbolize the hopelessness of the entire situation; thus, they further develop the fatalistic theme. Second, in the climactic scene where Madeline has been mistakenly entombed alive, there is a pairing of images and sounds as the narrator tries to calm Roderick by reading him a romance story. Events in the story simultaneously unfold with events of the sister escaping her tomb. In the story, the hero breaks out of the coffin. Then, in the story, the dragon’s shriek as he is slain parallels Madeline’s shriek. Finally, the story tells of the clangor of a shield, matched by the sister’s clanging along a metal passageway. As the suspense reaches its climax, Roderick shrieks his last words to his “friend,” the narrator: “Madman! I tell you that she now stands without the door” (296).

Roderick, who slowly falls into insanity, ironically calls the narrator the “Madman.” We are left to reflect on what Poe means by this ironic twist. Poe’s bleak and dark imagery, and his use of mirror reflections, seem only to intensify the hopelessness of “Usher.” We can plausibly conclude that, indeed, the narrator is the “Madman,” for he comes from everyday society, which is a place where hope and faith exist. Poe would probably argue that such a place is opposite to the world of Usher because a world where death is inevitable could not possibly hold such positive values. Therefore, just as Roderick mirrors his sister, the reflection in the tarn mirrors the dilapidation of the house, and the story mirrors the final actions before the death of Usher. “The Fall of the House of Usher” reflects Poe’s view that humanity is hopelessly doomed.

Poe, Edgar Allan. “The Fall of the House of Usher.” 1839. Electronic Text Center, University of Virginia Library . 1995. Web. 1 July 2012. < http://etext.virginia.edu/toc/modeng/public/PoeFall.html >.

Example 3: Poetry

Amy Chisnell

Professor Laura Neary

Writing and Literature

April 17, 20—

Don’t Listen to the Egg!: A Close Reading of Lewis Carroll’s “Jabberwocky”

“You seem very clever at explaining words, Sir,” said Alice. “Would you kindly tell me the meaning of the poem called ‘Jabberwocky’?”

“Let’s hear it,” said Humpty Dumpty. “I can explain all the poems that ever were invented—and a good many that haven’t been invented just yet.” (Carroll 164)

In Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking-Glass , Humpty Dumpty confidently translates (to a not so confident Alice) the complicated language of the poem “Jabberwocky.” The words of the poem, though nonsense, aptly tell the story of the slaying of the Jabberwock. Upon finding “Jabberwocky” on a table in the looking-glass room, Alice is confused by the strange words. She is quite certain that “ somebody killed something ,” but she does not understand much more than that. When later she encounters Humpty Dumpty, she seizes the opportunity at having the knowledgeable egg interpret—or translate—the poem. Since Humpty Dumpty professes to be able to “make a word work” for him, he is quick to agree. Thus he acts like a New Critic who interprets the poem by performing a close reading of it. Through Humpty’s interpretation of the first stanza, however, we see the poem’s deeper comment concerning the practice of interpreting poetry and literature in general—that strict analytical translation destroys the beauty of a poem. In fact, Humpty Dumpty commits the “heresy of paraphrase,” for he fails to understand that meaning cannot be separated from the form or structure of the literary work.

Of the 71 words found in “Jabberwocky,” 43 have no known meaning. They are simply nonsense. Yet through this nonsensical language, the poem manages not only to tell a story but also gives the reader a sense of setting and characterization. One feels, rather than concretely knows, that the setting is dark, wooded, and frightening. The characters, such as the Jubjub bird, the Bandersnatch, and the doomed Jabberwock, also appear in the reader’s head, even though they will not be found in the local zoo. Even though most of the words are not real, the reader is able to understand what goes on because he or she is given free license to imagine what the words denote and connote. Simply, the poem’s nonsense words are the meaning.

Therefore, when Humpty interprets “Jabberwocky” for Alice, he is not doing her any favors, for he actually misreads the poem. Although the poem in its original is constructed from nonsense words, by the time Humpty is done interpreting it, it truly does not make any sense. The first stanza of the original poem is as follows:

’Twas brillig, and the slithy toves

Did gyre and gimble in the wabe;

All mimsy were the borogroves,

An the mome raths outgrabe. (Carroll 164)

If we replace, however, the nonsense words of “Jabberwocky” with Humpty’s translated words, the effect would be something like this:

’Twas four o’clock in the afternoon, and the lithe and slimy badger-lizard-corkscrew creatures

Did go round and round and make holes in the grass-plot round the sun-dial:

All flimsy and miserable were the shabby-looking birds

with mop feathers,

And the lost green pigs bellowed-sneezed-whistled.

By translating the poem in such a way, Humpty removes the charm or essence—and the beauty, grace, and rhythm—from the poem. The poetry is sacrificed for meaning. Humpty Dumpty commits the heresy of paraphrase. As Cleanth Brooks argues, “The structure of a poem resembles that of a ballet or musical composition. It is a pattern of resolutions and balances and harmonizations” (203). When the poem is left as nonsense, the reader can easily imagine what a “slithy tove” might be, but when Humpty tells us what it is, he takes that imaginative license away from the reader. The beauty (if that is the proper word) of “Jabberwocky” is in not knowing what the words mean, and yet understanding. By translating the poem, Humpty takes that privilege from the reader. In addition, Humpty fails to recognize that meaning cannot be separated from the structure itself: the nonsense poem reflects this literally—it means “nothing” and achieves this meaning by using “nonsense” words.

Furthermore, the nonsense words Carroll chooses to use in “Jabberwocky” have a magical effect upon the reader; the shadowy sound of the words create the atmosphere, which may be described as a trance-like mood. When Alice first reads the poem, she says it seems to fill her head “with ideas.” The strange-sounding words in the original poem do give one ideas. Why is this? Even though the reader has never heard these words before, he or she is instantly aware of the murky, mysterious mood they set. In other words, diction operates not on the denotative level (the dictionary meaning) but on the connotative level (the emotion(s) they evoke). Thus “Jabberwocky” creates a shadowy mood, and the nonsense words are instrumental in creating this mood. Carroll could not have simply used any nonsense words.

For example, let us change the “dark,” “ominous” words of the first stanza to “lighter,” more “comic” words:

’Twas mearly, and the churly pells

Did bimble and ringle in the tink;

All timpy were the brimbledimps,

And the bip plips outlink.

Shifting the sounds of the words from dark to light merely takes a shift in thought. To create a specific mood using nonsense words, one must create new words from old words that convey the desired mood. In “Jabberwocky,” Carroll mixes “slimy,” a grim idea, “lithe,” a pliable image, to get a new adjective: “slithy” (a portmanteau word). In this translation, brighter words were used to get a lighter effect. “Mearly” is a combination of “morning” and “early,” and “ringle” is a blend of “ring” and "dingle.” The point is that “Jabberwocky’s” nonsense words are created specifically to convey this shadowy or mysterious mood and are integral to the “meaning.”

Consequently, Humpty’s rendering of the poem leaves the reader with a completely different feeling than does the original poem, which provided us with a sense of ethereal mystery, of a dark and foreign land with exotic creatures and fantastic settings. The mysteriousness is destroyed by Humpty’s literal paraphrase of the creatures and the setting; by doing so, he has taken the beauty away from the poem in his attempt to understand it. He has committed the heresy of paraphrase: “If we allow ourselves to be misled by it [this heresy], we distort the relation of the poem to its ‘truth’… we split the poem between its ‘form’ and its ‘content’” (Brooks 201). Humpty Dumpty’s ultimate demise might be seen to symbolize the heretical split between form and content: as a literary creation, Humpty Dumpty is an egg, a well-wrought urn of nonsense. His fall from the wall cracks him and separates the contents from the container, and not even all the King’s men can put the scrambled egg back together again!

Through the odd characters of a little girl and a foolish egg, “Jabberwocky” suggests a bit of sage advice about reading poetry, advice that the New Critics built their theories on. The importance lies not solely within strict analytical translation or interpretation, but in the overall effect of the imagery and word choice that evokes a meaning inseparable from those literary devices. As Archibald MacLeish so aptly writes: “A poem should not mean / But be.” Sometimes it takes a little nonsense to show us the sense in something.

Brooks, Cleanth. The Well-Wrought Urn: Studies in the Structure of Poetry . 1942. San Diego: Harcourt Brace, 1956. Print.

Carroll, Lewis. Through the Looking-Glass. Alice in Wonderland . 2nd ed. Ed. Donald J. Gray. New York: Norton, 1992. Print.

MacLeish, Archibald. “Ars Poetica.” The Oxford Book of American Poetry . Ed. David Lehman. Oxford: Oxford UP, 2006. 385–86. Print.

Example 4: Poetry

Firstname Lastname

21 March 2019

"golden daffodils" as Economics of Personification in Wordsworth's "I wandered lonely as a cloud"

A lyric poem about an isolated speaker wandering lonely among flowers starts out sad but becomes joyful by the end. The title of this poem by William Wordsworth immediately gave me the sense it would be a sad poem since it included the word “lonely.” This word usually has negative connotations. The first two lines of the stanza confirmed my initial impressions in that it used imagery of a cloud floating “high” over an empty landscape (1-2). The tone is sad and moody. However, this loneliness is disrupted when the cloudlike speaker is joined by his new friends: personified daffodils (4). In this essay, I argue that through wealth metaphor and anthropomorphism , the speaker rejects the money economy to embrace an economy of plants, where daffodils are valuable friends in an otherwise lonely landscape.

Some might say describing flowers with human anatomy is creepy. The idea of flowers “tossing their heads” seems like a nightmare or bad drug trip at first (12). But on closer inspection, it's not just the daffodils. The entire landscape is alive. There is apparently a dance-off going on between the lake waves and the flowers (14). What started off as a lonely poem quickly grew into a kind of party. Through transforming what seems at first like an empty landscape into one that is populated, the narrator presents an unconventional approach to loneliness, where perhaps companionship includes nonhuman beings.

While being lonely often has negative connotations, there is a lot of diction choices that make it seem as if loneliness is valued by the speaker. The reason I say that is because the daffodils aren’t just personified, but they are also described as “golden” (4). They could have been described as yellow, lemon-colored, any number of adjectives . The association with a valuable metal seems intentional, especially considering the speaker describes the “show” of the daffodil dance as “wealth” near the end of the poem (18). Most people would not immediately associate loneliness or common flowers with wealth.

Perhaps the true value of the daffodils is indicated in this final stanza emphasizing the value of daffodils in memory. Here the moment of observing the dancing daffodils again seems to be represented as a renewable gift that nature gave to the speaker. The speaker sits at home alone on his couch in a “pensive mood” (20). According to Webster's dictionary, "pensive" means a thoughtful state, with negative connotations of “thoughtful sadness” (“Pensive”). So the speaker is afflicted with sadness, and then the memory of the daffodils acts as a kind of cure, so the speaker’s “heart with pleasure fills” (23). While traditional gifts can be exhausted or used up, this source is renewable: he can think of the daffodils again and again to refill any emptiness he may feel. His heart functions as a kind of bank or wallet. This emptiness of his thoughts filled by the golden daffodil memory mirrors the original empty, lonely landscape at the beginning of the poem which was then populated by the daffodils.

Looking back, the poem tells a story about finding value in surprising settings. It might even be described as having a plot l ike a work of short fiction, perhaps classifying it as narrative poetry . While the “lonely” beginning of the poem and the “pensive” mood indicate loneliness as negative, the speaker in the poem traces a journey where he finds “the bliss of solitude” (22). This phrase is somewhat of an oxymoron : bliss and solitude are not usually used together. Many find that walks in nature help them feel better. Perhaps the speaker of the poem is speaking to a universal truth about the value of nature? Or about how we aren’t really ever alone? Or that maybe we should reconsider what we truly value, and what nature is worth? Certainly the poem makes an argument for relationship with the nonhuman world.

Through transforming daffodils into golden companions, and turning loneliness into blissful solitude, the poem exchanges one economy for another. The speaker gains a hoard of memories that they are able to look back upon and reconsider. This form of wealth is renewable. Perhaps this exploration of the botanical economy and its revaluation of loneliness can be applied to Wordsworth's other poems.

“Pensive.” The Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster Inc., https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pensive Accessed 31 December 2019.

Wordsworth, William. “I wandered lonely as a cloud.” 1807. Poetry Foundation. https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45521/i-wandered-lonely-as-a-cloud Accessed 21 October 2019.

Attribution

Sample Essay 1 received permission from Victoria Morillo to publish, licensed Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International ( CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 )
Sample Essays 2 and 3 adapted from Cordell, Ryan and John Pennington. "2.5: Student Sample Papers" from Creating Literary Analysis. 2012. Licensed Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported ( CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 )

Oxford University Press's Academic Insights for the Thinking World

Why literary genres matter

Classical literature: a very short introduction.

May 9 th 2014

By William Allan

One of the most striking aspects of classical literature is its highly developed sense of genre . Of course, a literary work’s genre remains an important factor today. We too distinguish broad categories of poetry, prose, and drama, but also sub-genres (especially within the novel, now the most popular literary form) such as crime, romantic or historical fiction. We do the same in other creative media, such as film, with thrillers, horrors, westerns, and so on. But classical authors were arguably even more aware than writers of genre fiction are today what forms and conventions applied to the genre they were writing in. All ancient literary texts are written in a particular genre, such as epic, tragedy, or pastoral. This doesn’t mean that one genre can’t interact with another, and they often do, as in ‘tragic history’, that is, history written in the style of tragedy, as when Thucydides presents the Athenian empire’s disastrous attempt to conquer Sicily as a typically tragic story of hybris and ruin . Some modern theorists would argue that every text belongs to a genre and that it is impossible not to write in one: thus even those nifty writers who try to break free of convention and write the wackiest stuff are still caught up in ‘experimental’ literature. The invention of the major literary genres and their norms is the most significant effect of classical literature’s influence.

But what is a genre? The first thing to observe is that a genre is not a rigid mould which works must fit into, but a group of texts that share certain similarities – whether of form, performance context, or subject matter. For example, all the texts that make up the ancient genre of tragedy share certain ‘family resemblances’ (they are theatrical texts written in a particular poetic language, they reflect on human suffering, they show gods interacting with humans, and so on) that allow us to perceive them as a recognizable group. But although certain ‘core’ features characterize any given genre, the boundaries of each genre are fluid and are often breached for literary effect.

As can still be seen in modern literature and film, a genre comes with certain in-built codes, values, and expectations. It creates its own world, helping the author to communicate with the audience, as she deploys or disrupts generic expectations and so creates a variety of effects. Genres appeal to writers because they give a structure and something to build on, while they offer audiences the pleasure of the familiar and ingenious diversion from it. The best writers take what they need from the traditional form and then innovate, leaving their own imprint on the genre and changing it for future writers and audiences. In other words, genre is a source of dynamism and creativity, not a straitjacket, unless the writer is rubbish, i.e. unimaginative and unoriginal.

All ancient writers had an idea of who the top figures in their chosen genre were (Homer and Virgil in epic; Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides in tragedy, and so on), and their aim was to rival and outdo their predecessors. The key ancient terms for this process of interaction with the literary past are imitatio (‘imitation’) and aemulatio (‘competition’). ‘Imitation’ doesn’t mean slavish copying, but creative adaptation of the tradition; creative writing today still involves the reworking of previous literature, since writers are usually enthusiastic readers too. Of course, competing with the great writers of the past is a risky business – as Horace puts it, ‘Whoever strives to rival Pindar exposes himself to a flight as risky as that of Icarus’ ( Odes 4.2.1-4, paraphrased) – but what characterizes the best writers of antiquity is their response to the great works of the past in the light of the present.

The central role of ‘imitation’ in classical literature also helps explain why ancient authors allude so frequently to other texts. With ‘the death of the author’ in postmodern thought, the wider term ‘intertextuality’ is now trendier than ‘allusion’, referring to the interconnections between texts, deliberate or not. Be that as it may, deliberate allusion is an important part of the writer’s meaning in classical literature, and the ideal reader of Virgil’s Aeneid , for example, an epic that draws on a variety of other genres (including tragedy, history, and love poetry, among others), will be able to appreciate how Virgil alludes to, and reworks, earlier texts in order to create his own meaning.

Mention of epic reminds us that classical literature is characterized by a hierarchy of genres, ranging from ‘high’ forms such as epic, tragedy, and history at one end through to ‘low’ forms such as comedy, satire, mime, and epigram at the other. ‘High’ and ‘low’ relate to how serious the subject matter is, how lofty the language, how dignified the tone, and so on. Many of the genres lower down on the hierarchy define themselves polemically in opposition to a higher form: thus writers of comedy, for example, poke fun at tragedy, presenting it as unrealistic and bombastic, in order to assert the value of their own work, while satire mocks the claims of epic and philosophy (among other genres) to offer meaningful guides to life. Finally, it is striking that some genres endure longer than others: Roman love elegy flourished for only half a century, while epic was always there, and always changing.

In conclusion, then, we can understand an ancient literary text properly only if we take into account where it comes in the evolution of its genre, and how it engages with and transforms the conventions it inherits. The same is true of our literature too, of course, not least because classical works, with their highly developed sense of genre, form the foundation of the Western literary tradition.

William Allan is McConnell Laing Fellow and Tutor in Classics at University College, Oxford. His publications include Classical Literature: A Very Short Introduction (OUP, 2014).

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What is a Genre? Definition, Examples of Genres in Literature

Home » The Writer’s Dictionary » What is a Genre? Definition, Examples of Genres in Literature

Genre definition: Genre is the organization and classification of writing.

What is Genre in Literature?

What does genre mean? Genre is the organization of literature into categories based on the type of writing the piece exemplifies through its content, form, or style.

Example of Literary Genre

The poem “My Papa’s Waltz” by Theodore Roethke fits under the genre of poetry because its written with lines that meter and rhythm and is divided into stanzas.

It does not follow the traditional sentence-paragraph format that is seen in other genres

Types of Literary Genre

There are a few different types of genre in literature. Let’s examine a few of them.

Poetry : Poetry is a major literary genre that can take many forms. Some common characteristics that poetry shares are that it is written in lines that have meter and rhythm. These lines are put together to form stanza in contrast to other writings that utilize sentences that are divided into paragraphs. Poetry often relies heavily on figurative language such as metaphors and similes in order to convey meanings and create images for the reader.

“Sonnet 18” is a poem by William Shakespeare that falls within this category of literature. It is a structured poem that consists of 14 lines that follow a meter (iambic pentameter) and a rhyme scheme that is consist with Shakespearean Sonnets.

Drama : This literary genre is often also referred to as a play and is performed in front of an audience. Dramas are written through dialogue and include stage directions for the actors to follow.

The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde would be considered a drama because it is written through dialogue in the form of a script that includes stage directions to aid the actors in the performance of the play.

Prose : Prose is a type of writing that is written through the use of sentences. These sentences are combined to form paragraphs. This type of writing is broad and includes both fiction and non-fiction.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is an example of fictional prose. It is written in complete sentences and divided through paragraphs.

Fiction : Fiction is a type of prose that is not real. Authors have the freedom to create a story based on characters or events that are products of their imaginations. While fiction can be based on true events, the stories they tell are imaginative in nature.

Like poetry, this genre also uses figurative language; however, it is more structural in nature and more closely follows grammatical conventions. Fiction often follows Freytag’s plot pyramid that includes an exposition, inciting incident, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution, and dénouement.

The novel Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut is an example of a fictional story about the main character’s experience with his self-acclaimed ability to time travel.

Nonfiction : Nonfiction is another type of prose that is factual rather than imaginative in nature. Because it is more factual and less imaginative, it may use less figurative language. Nonfiction varies however from piece to piece. It may tell a story through a memoir or it could be strictly factual in nature like a history textbook.

The memoir Night by Elie Wiesel is a memoir telling the story of Wiesel’s experience as a young Jewish boy during the Holocaust.

The Function of Genre

Genre is important in order to be able to organize writings based on their form, content, and style.

For example, this allows readers to discern whether or not the events being written about in a piece are factual or imaginative. Genre also distinguishes the purpose of the piece and the way in which it is to be delivered. In other words, plays are meant to be performed and speeches are meant to be delivered orally whereas novels and memoirs are meant to be read.

Summary: What Are Literary Genres?

Define genre in literature: Genre is the classification and organization of literary works into the following categories: poetry, drama, prose, fiction, and nonfiction. The works are divided based on their form, content, and style. While there are subcategories to each of these genres, these are the main categories in which literature is divided.

Final Example:

The short story “The Cask of Amontillado” by Edgar Allan Poe is a fictional short story that is written in prose. It fits under the prose category because it is written using complete sentences that follow conventional grammar rules that are then formed into paragraphs.

The story is also identified as fictional because it is an imagined story that follows the plot structure.

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Genres in Literature

Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
B.A., English, State University of New York

In literature, every piece of writing falls under a general category, also known as a genre. We experience genres is other parts of our daily lives, such as movies and music, and in each case, the individual genres typically have distinctive styles in terms of how they are composed. At the most basic level, there are essentially three main genres for literature - poetry, prose and drama - and each can be broken down even further, resulting in dozens of subgenres for each. Some resources will cite only two genres: fiction and non-fiction, though many classics will argue that fiction and non-fiction can, and do, both fall under poetry, drama or prose.

While there is much debate over what constitutes a genre in literature, for the purposes of this article, we will break down the classic three. From there, we will outline some of the subgenres for each, including those that some believe should be classified as main genres.

Poetry is a style of writing that tends to be written in verses, and typically employs a rhythmic and measured approach to composition. It characteristically is known for evoking emotional responses from readers through its melodic tone and use of creative language that is often imaginative and symbolic in nature. The word “poetry” comes from the Greek word “poiesis” which essentially means, making, which is translated into the making of poetry. Poetry is typically divided into two main subgenres, narrative and lyric, which each have additional types that fall under their respective umbrellas. For example, narrative poetry includes ballads and epic tales, while lyric poetry includes sonnets, psalms and even folk songs. Poetry can be fiction or nonfiction.

Prose is essentially identified as written text that aligns with the flow of conversation in sentence and paragraph form, as opposed to verses and stanzas in poetry . Writing of prose employs common grammatical structure and a natural flow of speech, not a specific tempo or rhythm as is seen in traditional poetry. Prose as a genre can be broken down into a number of subgenres including both fiction and non-fiction works. Examples of prose can range from news, biographies and essays to novels, short stories, plays and fables. The subject matter, if it is fiction versus nonfiction and length of the work, are not taken into consideration when classifying it as prose, but rather the style of writing that is conversational is what lands works in this genre.

Drama is defined as theatrical dialogue that is performed on stage and traditionally is comprised of five acts. It is generally broken down into four subgenres including comedy, melodrama, tragedy and farce. In many cases, dramas will actually overlap with poetry and prose, depending on the writing style of the author. Some dramatic pieces are written in a poetic style, while others employ a more casual writing style seen in prose, to better relate to the audience. Like both poetry and prose, dramas can be fiction or nonfiction, though most are fictional or inspired by real life, but not completely accurate.

The Genre and Subgenre Debate

Beyond these three basic genres, if you conduct an online search for “genres of literature,” you will find dozens of conflicting reports that claim any number of main genres that exist. There is often debate over what constitutes genre, but in most cases, there is a misunderstanding of the difference between genre and subject matter. It’s common for subject matter to be considered a genre in not only literature, but also in movies and even games, both of which are often based on or inspired by books . These subjects can include biography, business, fiction, history, mystery, comedy, romance and thrillers. Subjects may also include cooking, self help, diet and fitness, religion and many many more.

Subjects and subgenres, however, can often be intermixed. Though, it can be a challenge to determine how many subgenres or subjects actually exist, as there are differing opinions on each, and new ones are created regularly. For example, young adult writing has become increasingly popular, and some would classify it as a subgenre of prose.

The difference between genre and subject is often blurred by the world around us. Think of a time when you last visited a bookstore or library. Most likely, the books were divided into sections - fiction and non-fiction for sure - and further categorized based on the type of books, such as self-help, historic, science fiction and others. Many people assume that these categorizations of subject matter are genre, and as a result, common language today has adopted a casual use of genre to mean subject.

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Exploring Literary Genres: Essays, Epics, Novels, Plays, and More

Literary genres: characteristics of various forms, literary genres: from essays to epics, what is an essay and how do you write one, epic tales – heroic narratives of a nation’s life, epics: works of an epic nature, sketches and their brilliant use in variety shows and television, the diversity of the novel genre, short stories as the primary genre in brief narrative prose, how is a play structured, what are novellas and what are their characteristics, what is an essay and what types of essays exist, musical opus: the intersection of music and literature, what is an ode, visions in literature: descriptions and characteristics.

The classification of literary genres today is astonishingly rich and diverse. It was the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle who first attempted to systematize literary genres in his work “Poetics”, introducing the earliest genre classification back in the 4th century BCE. Since then, the world of literature has undergone countless transformations, reflected in the evolution of genres. Modern literary genres now boast a wide array of formal and thematic characteristics.

One of the primary challenges for a writer is selecting a genre that aligns with the intent and content of their work. For many centuries, classical genre norms remained largely unchanged, and deviating from these standards was considered a breach of literary conventions. However, this began to shift at the end of the 18th century, when literary expression expanded beyond normative poetics due to cultural, social, and historical changes.

These changes brought significant developments in the literary landscape: some genres gradually faded away, others gained prominence, and new ones emerged at the crossroads of cultural trends and innovative ideas. For instance, the rise of the Gothic novel in the 18th century mirrored the Enlightenment era’s fascination with mysticism and the unknown, while the advent of science fiction in the 19th century reflected humanity’s quest for knowledge and technological progress.

Nowadays, literary genres can be categorized using various criteria. Traditional approaches identify genres by mode (epic, lyric, dramatic), by thematic content (comedy, tragedy, drama), and by specific characteristics. For example, “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien and “Crime and Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky are exemplary works within the fantasy and realistic novel genres, respectively. To gain a deeper understanding, let’s explore literary genres by their forms.

Literature offers a rich tapestry of genres, each unique in its purpose and form. From short essays to epic novels, every genre provides readers with different ways to perceive the world. Let’s take a closer look at some of them.

Essay – This genre allows the author to freely express thoughts and reflections on any given topic. Unlike formal academic papers, essays offer complete creative freedom and self-expression. An example of a classic essay is Montaigne’s “Essays,” where the author philosophizes on various life themes using metaphors and personal stories.

Epic – One of the most ancient genres, epics recount legends, myths, and heroic deeds of mighty heroes. Epics deliver vast poetic works filled with dramatic events and grand exploits. For instance, the Indian epic “Mahabharata” narrates spiritual and physical battles affecting the destinies of entire nations.

The classic form of epic literature is the epic poem, which glorifies the heroic deeds of numerous characters and historical events. Examples include Homer’s “Iliad” and “Odyssey,” where the main characters find the meaning of life through adventures and trials.

Sketch – This is a short scene that expresses comedic situations through lighthearted and humorous images. In literature, sketches are often used to create humor and satire. For example, English writer Jerome K. Jerome’s “Three Men in a Boat” shares amusing situations that occur with three friends on a boating trip.

Novel – This is a comprehensive artistic work in prose, allowing the author to immerse the reader in an expansive and multifaceted story. Novels cover a full range of human emotions and relationships through multiple plot lines and diverse characters. An example is Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace,” which transports the reader to the Napoleonic era and depicts the destinies of various social strata.

Short Story – This genre is characterized by its brief narrative form, allowing the focus to remain on a single, but vivid, episode or character. For instance, the short stories of Anton Chekhov often capture entire worlds and destinies within a small amount of text, conveying the nuances of human behavior with remarkable precision.

Play – This dramatic genre unfolds on stage through dialogues and monologues of the characters. These works come to life right before the audience. In plays by William Shakespeare, such as “Hamlet” or “Romeo and Juliet,” drama and tragedy are skillfully intertwined, captivating the audience with their emotional depth.

Novella – Occupying a space between a short story and a novel, this prose genre focuses on a single plot line and a few characters. An excellent example is Ernest Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea,” which narrates an epic struggle between a man and nature, as well as his own inner turmoil.

Essay – This genre allows the author to share their observations and reflections on a particular topic. Essays often possess a documentary or journalistic nature but may also include elements of a more artistic style. A prime example is Jonathan Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels,” where he uses fictional stylizations to address real social and political issues.

Opus – A creative work that can encompass elements from various genres and directions, showcasing the author’s labor.

Ode – This hymnic genre extols and glorifies specific themes and subjects, typically distinguished by its solemn language. For example, Mikhail Lermontov’s “Ode to the Conquest of Kazan” celebrates the heroism and grandeur of the victory.

Visions – A genre comprising descriptions of mystical impressions and visions experienced by the author in an ecstatic state. This often delves into religious or spiritual themes, like Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy,” which opens a door for the reader into an otherworldly realm of the afterlife, heaven, and hell.

Each of these genres has distinctive characteristics that help it stand out from the rest and attract its own audience. Exploring various literary genres enriches our understanding of human nature and the world around us.

An essay is a unique genre of prose that allows the author to freely express their thoughts and impressions on any chosen topic. This format isn’t bound by strict composition rules, which makes it especially appealing to many creative individuals. Nevertheless, despite its flexible structure, a successful essay must be concise, precise, and contain a clear central idea that develops logically throughout the text.

Key features of an essay’s style include its associative, aphoristic, and vivid nature. This means the author can utilize striking metaphors and expressive imagery to enhance their messages and thoughts. For instance, if you’re writing about an autumn forest, you might use metaphors like “a golden carpet of fallen leaves” or “stately trees looking weary from the summer’s heat.” These images help the reader immerse themselves in your narrative and grasp the main ideas you want to convey.

Another important characteristic of an essay is its close connection to the reader. The author should be aware of who will be reading their essay and choose language and style that are accessible and understandable to a broad audience. For example, if the essay is aimed at schoolchildren, it should be written in simple and engaging language to keep the young readers’ attention.

Typically, an essay comprises an introduction, the main body, and a conclusion. In the introduction, it’s crucial to captivate the reader’s interest and draw them into the topic at hand. You might start with an intriguing question or a surprising fact. The main body should be logically structured, elaborating on the central idea with arguments and examples that support the author’s viewpoint. In the concluding section, you should briefly summarize the key points and present a final conclusion based on the analysis of the arguments presented.

The essay is a remarkable genre that offers expansive opportunities for freely expressing thoughts and ideas. It’s not only a way to voice your opinions but also a powerful tool for honing literary skills. In the course of writing an essay, the author learns to carefully choose words and images, developing both their erudition and logical thinking. For instance, composing an essay about the importance of reading books might encourage exploring various literary sources, enriching one’s knowledge and broadening their perspective.

The epic genre is a unique branch of literature that immerses readers in the atmosphere of ancient times, where extraordinary events unfolded, and genuine heroic deeds took place. These works celebrate the feats of legendary figures and significant historical moments, forever etched in the collective memory of people. Epics are a vital part of cultural heritage, preserving the richness of traditions, customs, and cultural and moral values for future generations.

Heroes in epic tales embody the qualities that a society cherishes: bravery, decisiveness, loyalty to duty, and spiritual strength. For instance, in Russian epics, the warrior Ilya Muromets epitomizes the ideal of a national defender and just warrior. In Greece, heroes like Achilles from Homer’s “Iliad” symbolize unyielding courage and military valor. These characters adhere to the societal morals and ethical values of their time, performing deeds that become exemplary for generations to come.

The key figures in epic narratives are the active heroes, those who shape the plot and drive the events forward with their actions, and the virtuous heroes, who represent the essence of goodness, justice, and moral ideals. For example, in the Kyrgyz epic “Manas,” the central character Manas not only performs dazzling feats on the battlefield but also demonstrates wisdom in ruling his people, guided by the highest principles of justice.

Epic works have originated from various corners of the earth, but their homeland is Ancient Greece. On this ancient archipelago, the first great songs-poems, such as “The Odyssey” and “The Iliad,” were created. Poets known as aoidos composed and recited these legendary epics, weaving myths, legends, and tales of incomparable heroes to the accompaniment of ancient melodies. Over time, these songs developed their unique rhythmic and monotonous structures, forming the foundation of epic Storytelling . Epic literature continues to thrive today, inspiring new generations to heroic deeds and helping them better understand the cultural legacy of their ancestors.

Epics are monumental literary creations that transport us to a realm of grand deeds, historical events, and extensive narrative arcs. This genre embodies the greatness of the human spirit and the cultural heritage of our ancestors. The emergence of epics is largely attributed to folkloric tales and oral traditions that preserved memories of the acts and heroes of various ancient tribes.

Brilliant examples of epic works include the great masterpieces like Homer’s “Iliad” and “Odyssey” , which recount the heroic events of the Trojan War and the journeys of Odysseus. In Russian literature, the epic lives on in “The Tale of Igor’s Campaign,” a grand piece narrating Prince Igor Svyatoslavich’s expedition against the Polovtsians.

A specialized form of the epic is the “moralistic epic,” known for its prose approach to depicting reality. These works cleverly describe the comedic state of national society, highlighting its unique traits and flaws. For example, Nikolai Gogol’s immortal creation “Dead Souls” stands as a poignant example of a moralistic epic, skillfully revealing the character of 19th-century Russian society through the adventures of Chichikov and his interactions with the landlords of Russia.

Historically, the epic genre has been employed to record humanity’s greatest spiritual and cultural achievements, as well as to preserve collective memory of significant historical episodes. Through epics, descendants discover the beauty of verbal artistry and the depth of historical events, forming a cultural legacy that enriches not only their own nation but the entire world.

Sketches are vibrant and concise plays that tell captivating stories involving multiple characters. These mini-productions, often just under 10 minutes long, have gained immense popularity due to their unique format, which allows them to hilariously and accurately satirize current events and everyday situations.

On stage and television, sketches have long been a staple of shows like variety programs. One of the standout examples is Saturday Night Live —the legendary American show that has been on the air since 1975. Its lasting popularity stems from its timely parodies of political events and showbiz celebrities. Another classic of the genre is the British show Monty Python’s Flying Circus , known for its absurd yet incredibly funny humor. Not to be forgotten is The Carol Burnett Show , whose subtle humor and expressive characters won over audiences in the 1960s and 1970s.

In today’s landscape, sketches have not lost their relevance. In the UK, shows like Little Britain and The Catherine Tate Show enjoy widespread popularity, with their jokes and characters becoming cultural staples. In the US, shows such as Key & Peele and Inside Amy Schumer continue to thrive, thanks to their sharp satirical takes on social issues and cultural stereotypes.

In Russia, sketch shows have also captivated audiences. One of the most prominent examples of a contemporary Russian sketch show is Nasha Russia . Its characters, like Ravshan and Jamshut or Siphon and Beard, have become iconic figures in Russian comedy. Another successful program is Daesh Molodezh , which humorously portrays youth archetypes and issues with sharp and kind-hearted irony.

Thus, sketches remain a significant part of the entertainment world, allowing viewers to laugh at their own flaws and weaknesses while enjoying exceptional acting and the sharp sense of humor from the writers. Be it political satire or everyday comedy, sketches continue to offer deep yet enjoyable reflections.

The novel is one of the most popular and captivating genres in literature, encompassing a wide range of stories and human destinies. At the core of every novel is a narrative about characters, their life challenges, and their quest for self-determination in critical moments. This allows the novel to be incredibly multifaceted and layered, covering a broad spectrum of types and directions. So, what kinds of novels are there?

First, there are psychological novels that delve deeply into the inner world of the characters, exploring their thoughts, feelings, and emotional experiences. An exemplary case is Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment,” where the main character, Raskolnikov, goes through tormenting guilt and moral conflicts after committing a crime.

Next are moral novels , which focus on ethical questions and moral dilemmas. Leo Tolstoy’s “Resurrection” exemplifies this type, as it follows Prince Nekhlyudov’s journey of spiritual awakening and repentance.

Historical novels, such as Walter Scott’s “Ivanhoe,” immerse the reader in a different time period and cultural realities, recreating the atmosphere of the past. At the same time, chivalric novels like Miguel de Cervantes’ legendary “Don Quixote” often blend adventure and romance, narrating the feats of noble knights.

Equally significant are classic Chinese novels , like Cao Xueqin’s “Dream of the Red Chamber,” where intricate court intrigues intertwine with philosophical reflections and national traditions. French novels, such as Stendhal’s “The Red and the Black,” frequently delve into human passions and social intrigues.

American novels often address themes of individualism and freedom. Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” comes to mind, featuring a young heroine who confronts societal prejudices and injustice. English novels, like Jane Austen’s classic “Pride and Prejudice,” frequently focus on family and social relationships, illuminating their nuances and contradictions.

The characters in novels often navigate complex and thrilling life situations to discover their true destiny or understand their authentic selves. This journey gives each novel its distinctiveness and uniqueness, enticing readers to immerse themselves repeatedly in the world of literary heroes. Depending on their cultural background and national identity, we encounter various types of novels, each with its unique features and unmistakable atmosphere.

Short stories are one of the most treasured and versatile genres in the literary world. Although they may be shorter than novels and novellas, their emphasis on conciseness and expressiveness makes them incredibly powerful tools for conveying emotions and ideas. This compact form of storytelling has roots that stretch back through the ages, originating from folk tales and oral traditions. Today, both professional writers and amateurs widely create short stories.

One undeniable advantage of short stories is their limited scale—they typically feature a small number of characters and a single plotline. This focus on specificity and the concentration on key moments allow authors to quickly develop and communicate their ideas to readers, creating a memorable emotional impact. For instance, many short stories by classic authors like Anton Chekhov and O. Henry captivate readers with their depth and essence in just a few pages.

Furthermore, short stories often form entire cycles, linked by common themes, motifs, or characters. This enables authors to develop intricate worlds and characters while giving readers the opportunity to immerse themselves more deeply in the literary universe. Collections like Geoffrey Chaucer’s “The Canterbury Tales” or the condensed format adaptations of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” allow for the creation of layered and complex narratives.

Storytellers are often referred to as short story writers, and their collective works are known as short story literature. Notable figures who have made an indelible mark in this genre include Edgar Allan Poe, Haruki Murakami, and Ray Bradbury. Short stories remain a vital and powerful genre, captivating and inspiring generations of readers by unveiling the limitless realm of human emotions and life experiences.

A play is a form of dramatic art that brings words to life on stage, infusing them with energy and depth. It’s meant to be performed in theaters, but it can also be adapted for radio, television, and even film. A play captivates the audience with the immediacy and magic of live interaction between actors.

The core structure of a play consists of carefully crafted monologues and dialogues delivered by the characters, complemented by the author’s stage directions. These elements do more than just convey information—they create an atmosphere and immerse the audience in the world of the characters, revealing their inner struggles and motivations through their actions and words. For instance, Hamlet’s famed “To be or not to be” soliloquy delves deep into his anguish and philosophical musings, marking a peak moment in the entire play.

Besides dialogues and monologues, any dramatic work also includes a cast list with brief descriptions of each character. This helps the audience or reader immediately understand who’s who, their relationships, goals, and objectives. For example, in Gogol’s play The Government Inspector , the character Khlestakov stands out for his recklessness and cunning, setting the audience up with a specific perception right from the start.

A play is structurally organized into acts, each of which may contain several scenes. These are akin to chapters in a book and allow the authors to shift the pace and mood of the narrative. Each act, broken down into scenes, advances the plot through a sequence of events and conflicts. A prime example is Chekhov’s Three Sisters , where the dynamics between acts smoothly transition from hope to despair, developing a melancholic atmosphere.

Radio and television adaptations of plays offer a unique form of expression, where the audience experiences the story through voices and background music. This medium demands exceptional skill from the actors to convey emotions and actions solely through intonation and sound effects. When listening to Orson Welles’ radio play The War of the Worlds , audiences were so engaged by the performance that they mistook it for an actual news report of an alien invasion.

Crafting a play is a meticulous process where every word and every movement on stage is carefully considered and blended with a rich array of emotions and nuances. The result is a unique work of art that outlives its creators and continues to captivate audiences.

A novella is a wonderful literary genre that occupies a middle ground between a novel and a short story. Until the 19th century, it was known as a “novelle.” One of the key characteristics of a novella is its flexible length; it can vary depending on the specific story and the author’s intent.

The plot of a novella typically presents a chronological narrative of the protagonist’s life, free from complex intrigues and convoluted events. It emphasizes the internal struggles and personal evolution of the character, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of their nature. Unlike novels, which often feature multiple intersecting plotlines and numerous supporting characters, novellas focus on a single storyline, making them more concentrated and intimate.

For example, in works like Nikolai Leskov’s “Charon” or Nikolai Gogol’s “Nevsky Prospect,” we see how authors skillfully use the novella form to immerse readers in the inner worlds of their characters, revealing their personalities through subtle yet meaningful events and details.

In Western literature, the term “novella” is often used synonymously with “short novel.” However, unlike novels that may include numerous plot twists and dramatic events, novellas prefer to concentrate on the development of the main character and their internal changes. For instance, the novellas by Herman Melville or Stefan Zweig captivate readers not with external occurrences but with the depth of psychological analysis.

An essay serves as a sort of small portal into reality, crafted by a writer based on their own observations and experiences. Unlike many other literary genres, essays emphasize authenticity and documentation, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a world described without fiction or exaggeration.

The essayist assumes the role of both observer and researcher. They carefully study their subject, whether it be a person, place, or event, striving to depict it with the utmost accuracy. Thus, an essay transforms into a kind of photographic snapshot filled with hues and details drawn from real life. For instance, an essay might describe the first school assembly in a small town. The writer doesn’t just list the facts but also captures the atmosphere—the scent of fresh chalk, the joyous laughter of children, and the warm morning sun’s rays.

The primary distinction of an essay from other literary works lies in its lack of fictional elements. An essay draws directly from real life, encompassing all its joys and challenges. It offers a window into genuine existence as seen through the eyes of the author.

There are numerous types of essays, each focusing on different aspects of reality:

Character Portraits : These sketches bring to life the vivid images of individuals, exploring their character, habits, appearance, and even their inner world. For instance, a portrait of a talented teacher might delve into his teaching methods, personal traits, and the impact he has on his students.
Problem Essays : These pieces examine social or cultural issues, offering in-depth analyses and suggesting potential solutions. Imagine an essay that thoroughly investigates the issue of homelessness in a large city, discussing both the root causes and the lives of those affected.
Travel Sketches : Transporting readers to exciting journeys around the world, these writings convey the author’s impressions and emotions. A travel sketch about wandering through the ancient streets of Florence could bring to life the medieval alleyways, the aroma of fresh pasta, and the magic of Italian sunsets.
Historical Sketches : These narratives immerse readers in the past, recreating well-known and obscure events, personalities, and moments in history. For example, an essay on the meeting between Nicholas II and Rasputin might include little-known facts, the atmosphere of the events, and their impact on the course of Russian history.

Therefore, essays offer us a broad spectrum of themes and approaches, weaving threads of reality into a rich tapestry of stories that linger in the memory for a long time.

The term “opus” holds unique and significant meaning, especially in the realm of classical music. Originally, it was used to denote musical compositions by certain composers, but over time its usage has broadened to include the literary field as well. It serves as a bridge between the worlds of sound and words, linking symphonies to stories.

A musical opus possesses distinct characteristics: it is always complete and deliberate, allowing it to be viewed as a cohesive whole. The form and content of an opus are so thoughtfully crafted that it becomes a work of art, whether it is a complex instrumental composition or a folk melody. For instance, the legendary “Symphony No. 5” by Ludwig van Beethoven or the mesmerizing “Polovtsian Dances” from Alexander Borodin’s opera “Prince Igor” showcase the richness and diversity of musical opuses.

Musical opuses span various genres and styles. Be it classical sonatas, operas, ballets, or contemporary music—each genre offers its unique perspective on musical art. Consider Beethoven’s “Pathetique Sonata,” which embodies the drama and emotional depth characteristic of its genre. Or take Giuseppe Verdi’s opera “Rigoletto,” which captivates audiences with its dramatic storytelling and complex musical structure.

In literature, the term opus is equally significant. Here, it refers to any literary or scholarly work by an author. This can encompass novels, short stories, essays, or research articles—each work by an author is known as their opus. Thus, the concept of an opus in music and literature highlights the richness and diversity of creative output in both fields.

A musical opus consistently reflects a personalized form and content, highlighting the unique personality of its creator. For instance, every symphony by Gustav Mahler bears the imprint of his inner world and philosophical reflections, making each of his compositions distinct. In a musical opus, thematic connections and internal logic are often evident, allowing listeners to delve deeper into the author’s intentions and ideas.

Therefore, an opus, whether musical or literary, possesses its own unique characteristics. A musical opus is an enriched and complete form of auditory art, vividly showcasing the composer’s individuality. On the other hand, a literary opus encompasses any written work by an author, be it a novel, poem, or scholarly treatise, unveiling to us the boundless realms of human thought and imagination.

An ode is a genre of lyric poetry characterized by a solemn and high-flown poetic form, often written in honor of someone or to commemorate a significant event. But an ode is more than just a poem; it is the profound expression of the author’s deep emotions and feelings toward the object of their admiration. This art form infuses every word with reverence and lofty sentiments.

Beyond individual works, an ode may also refer to any lyrical poetry that is accompanied by music. In ancient Greece, an ode began as choral singing accompanied by music and dance. This encompassed nearly any genre of lyrical poetry and played an important role in public and religious rituals. Greek poets like Pindar and Sappho wrote odes that praised gods and heroes, providing insight into the values and culture of their times.

As the Renaissance period unfolded in Europe, the term ode began to denote grandiose lyrical pieces that drew inspiration from classical antiquity. Authors such as John Milton and Pierre de Ronsard utilized odes to reflect their feelings, describe the beauty of the world, and convey the extraordinariness of their surroundings. For example, Milton’s “Ode on the Morning of Christ’s Nativity” conveys religious sentiment and marvels at the mysterious power of Christmas, while Ronsard’s “Ode à Hélène” admires the beauty of his beloved, comparing her to ancient goddesses. Through elaborate descriptions of emotional experiences and significant events, these authors were able to express their emotional states with remarkable depth and candor.

Thus, the ode has evolved into more than just a poetic work; it has become a true instrument for conveying the most elevated and sincere human emotions and feelings.

Medieval literature from various cultures is incredibly rich with works where clairvoyants, experiencing vivid and sometimes shockingly realistic visions during hallucinations or dreams, take center stage. These visionaries serve as conduits for the author to convey complex philosophical, spiritual, and social concepts. For instance, in Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy,” the main character—Dante himself—undertakes an extraordinary journey through the circles of Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise, receiving lessons and guidance from various characters.

For many authors, visions are not just a source of artistic inspiration but also a powerful tool for commentary or narrative didacticism. They are used to express deep personal beliefs, profound convictions, or perceptions of the world around them. In the “Revelation” of St. John the Divine, critical prophecies of the future are conveyed through vivid and enigmatic imagery, stirring ongoing curiosity and debate among interpreters to this day.

The variations in literary genres reflect different eras and individual perspectives on the world and humanity. From early medieval mystical visions, we transition to the romantic visions found in the works of Edgar Allan Poe, and venture into the modern fantastical realms created by J.R.R. Tolkien and J.K. Rowling. Today, the diversity of genres and forms allows every creative person to express themselves in a way that best suits their inner world and sensibilities. From realism to magical realism, historical novels to science fiction, every reader can find something to their taste, and every writer can discover their unique voice and storytelling style.

My Storyboards

Literary Genres

Types of genres are categories of literature that are generally determined by technique, length, tone, and content. When we list literary forms in broader terms, they can be more abstract, flexible, and loosely defined. However, as we get more specific and into subcategories, the distinctions and rules of the genre become crystal clear.

What are the literature genres? Though we may think there are several types of written art forms, there are actually only 3 genres of literature. You may be wondering, what are the three genres of literature? Poetry, drama, and prose. That’s right. All the other genre types fit into one of these three categories. Students will typically encounter these narrative types of literature in English for most of what they read and write about in school. Therefore, they must be able to identify examples of literary artistic expressions, know their key characteristics, and list the genres of literature.

Keep reading to learn more about the different literary genres examples, along with ways for students and teachers to storyboard their forms of literature examples. In the genres of literature chart below, each of the storyboards and examples can be copied and used in an assignment with your students.

Literary Genres Examples

Here are some literary forms examples for you to check out. Different types of genres have different purposes. As you read through these examples, notice how the techniques, lengths, tones, and contents change.

Literary forms can be classified in many ways. In this section, we will take a closer look at 3 genres of literature: poetry, drama, and prose. Understanding the different classifications of literary expression in English will not only enhance your students’ reading experience but improve their writing skills too.

Types of Literary Genres

Poetry is a genre of literature that uses aesthetic and rhythmic qualities of language—such as phonaesthetics, sound symbolism, and metre — to evoke meanings in addition to, or in place of, the literal or mundane meaning. Poetry has a very long history, dating back to prehistoric times with the creation of hunting chants and burial songs.

Among the different genre examples, poetry is considered by many to be the most intense literature genre. It allows a writer to express their deepest emotions and thoughts in a very personal way. It relies heavily on figurative language, rhythm, and imagery to relay its message to readers. Poetic writing uses beautiful language to express deep thoughts and feelings. Poetic expressions can help you understand your emotions and thoughts better, and it also helps you learn how to write more expressively.

Sub-Genres of Poetry

Songs and Ballads

Drama is a mode of fictional representation through dialogue and performance. It is one of the kinds of literature which includes epic poetry, lyric poetry, and novel. Aristotle’s Poetics defines drama as “a representation of an action that is whole and complete and has a beginning, a middle, and an end.”

Drama is often performed on stage in front of a live audience, but it can also be presented in other forms, such as radio, film, and television. It is usually written by a playwright, although it can be adapted from other sources, such as novels, short stories, poems, or even real-life events. Or it can be read silently by individuals.

It contains dialogue, and actors impersonate the characters. Imaginary characters are frequently introduced to its narratives, allowing the playwright to explore complex human emotions and conflicts through both real-life and fantastical figures. Characters often encounter conflict, whether internal or external, as it serves as a driving force for character development and narrative tension. It is usually divided into acts or scenes and relies on props or imaginative dialogue to create a visual experience for the audience. Dramatic literary works are a good place to start, as they are usually pretty easy to understand at face value and captivates the audience with cliffhangers and mind-capitulating events.

Sub-Genres of Drama

This form of literary expression has no formal metrical structure. It applies a natural flow of speech, and ordinary grammatical structure, rather than rhythmic structure, such as in the case of traditional poetry. Prose is an example of literary text that is typically written in paragraphs, although there are some exceptions, such as in the case of drama or fiction.

Prose can be found in books, magazines, newspapers, online articles, blogs, etc. It is the most common form of writing. Examples of famous works of prose include To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee & Charlotte's Web by E.B. White. The prose is simple, straightforward language. It can be either fiction or nonfiction . The prose is typically divided into paragraphs, and it uses regular grammar. It can be either serious or funny.

Fiction is narrative writing that originates from the author’s imagination. It is designed to entertain, but it can also inspire, inform, or persuade.

Sub-Genres of Fiction

Short Story
Myths and Legends
Historical Fiction

Nonfiction is writing that is based on true events, people, places, and facts. It is designed to inform, and sometimes to entertain.

Sub-Genres of Nonfiction

Autobiography
Diaries and Journals
Narrative Nonfiction

What Are the Three Genres of Literature?

The main examples of genres in literature are poetry, drama, and prose. Poetry is a genre in literature that uses aesthetic and rhythmic qualities of language to evoke meanings in addition to, or in place of, the prosaic ostensible meaning. Drama is a mode of fictional representation through dialogue and performance. The prose is a form of language that has no formal metrical structure. It applies a natural flow of speech and ordinary grammatical structure, rather than rhythmic structure, such as in the case of traditional poetry. Genres of literature in English then fall into subcategories, which make up the three genres of literature.

Forms of literature examples are:

Poetry: Ballads, Lyric, Epic, Dramatic, Narrative
Drama: Tragedy, Comedy, History, Melodrama, Musical
Prose: Fiction (Novel, Novella, Short Story), Nonfiction (Autobiography, Biography, Essay)

Genres of Literature Chart

A literature genres list would include categories like fiction, non-fiction, and folklore, but may also cover specialized types such as science fiction, romance, mystery, and historical fiction, offering a comprehensive overview of the literary landscape.

Genre types subcategories can be explained as the following:


Ballad	A ballad is a type of poem that tells a story. Ballads are often about love, loss, or murder.
Lyric	A lyric is a type of poem that expresses the emotions or thoughts of the poet.
Epic	An epic is a long, narrative poem that tells the story of a heroic figure.
Dramatic	Dramatic poetry is a type of poetry that is meant to be performed.
Narrative	A narrative poem is a type of poem that tells a story.
Tragedy	A tragedy is a type of drama that ends in disaster for the main character.
Comedy	A comedy is a type of drama that ends happily or humorously.
History	A history play is a type of drama that tells the story of a historical event.
Melodrama	A melodrama is a type of drama that features exaggerated emotions and characters.
Musical	A musical is a type of drama that features songs and dance numbers.
Novel	A novel is a type of fiction that tells a long, complex story.
Novella	A novella is a type of fiction that tells a shorter, simpler story than a novel.
Short Story	A short story is a type of fiction that tells a brief, self-contained story.
Myth and Legend	A myth is a type of story that explains the origins of a culture or natural phenomenon. A legend is a type of story that tells the story of a heroic figure.
Fable	A fable is a type of short story that features animals as the main characters.
Historical Fiction	Historical fiction is a type of fiction set in the past and features historical figures and events.
Autobiography	An autobiography is a type of nonfiction that tells the story of the author’s life.
Biography	A biography is a type of nonfiction that tells the story of someone else’s life.
Essay	An essay is a type of nonfiction that expresses the author’s opinion on a topic.

Different types of literature being classified by genres and subgenres help people better understand the diversity of literary styles, themes, and techniques employed by authors. Each type has its own purpose and style. Whether you’re looking for a light read or something more heavy and informative, there’s definitely a literary genre out there for you.

A Note About Speeches...

While not one of the primary genres of literature, speeches are important historical documents or moments and literature, and they don’t always fit neatly into one of the three primary genre categories. A speech is a formal address given to an audience. Speeches can be found in prose, drama, and poetry, and their primary goals are to persuade, inform, demonstrate, or entertain a reader, an audience, or other characters. They can also be used in nonfiction or fiction, depending on their purpose and use.

Why Use Storyboarding to Learn About Literary Genres Types?

Storyboarding is the perfect way to learn and remember the different genres of literature. When you storyboard, you can visually see how each literary genre differs from the next. You can also track and compare the subcategories within genres, identify key characteristics of each, and even explore the relationships between genres. All of this will help you better understand and remember the genres of literature, making it easier to identify them when you encounter them in your reading.

How Can Storyboard That Enhance the Learning Experience of the Three Genres of Literature?

Storyboard That can help students better understand the three genres of literature by providing a visual representation of each one. By storyboarding, students can identify key characteristics of each genre and see how they differ from one another. Additionally, Storyboard That is a great way to compare and contrast genres, as well as explore the relationships between them. All of this will help students better remember the genres of literature and be able to identify them when they encounter them in their reading.

Looking to add a little creative flair to your literature class? Check out Storyboard That’s easy-to-use, online storyboard creator! With our drag-and-drop software, you can create engaging, visually appealing graphic organizers to help your students learn about the different genres of literature. Plus, our easy-to-use tools make it simple to add text, images, and multimedia content to your storyboards, so you can really bring your lessons to life.

Where to Start When Learning About Literary Genres

If you’re just starting to learn about literary narrative types, the best place to begin is with the three primary genres: prose, drama, and poetry. These genres are the foundation for all other types of literature, so it’s crucial to have a strong understanding of them before moving on to anything else. Each genre will approach plot development, conflict resolution, and the art of delivering a satisfying conclusion in unique and captivating ways, reflecting the rich tapestry of literary expression.

In terms of choosing between the three, poetry tends to be the most complicated to understand as it can go against the usual laws of grammar. There are a lot of deeper meanings within poetry, so it can be hard to break down as a newbie. Start with some short, simple prose articles such as newspaper pieces and short novels.

When you start to get the underlying meanings behind the prose, you can then start to dive into some simple drama. Look into Greek tragedies and Shakespearean plays, as they are a great starting point. These genres will give you a better understanding of the basics before progressing on to more.

When you’re ready to go deeper, poetry is the next stepping stone. Children’s poetry is a great starting point to give you a good foundation of poetic structure and meaning. Then you can go further into complicated poetry, such as that of the Elizabethans and Victorians.

Once you feel comfortable with the three primary genres, you can start exploring the many subgenres that exist within each one. There are endless possibilities when it comes to different types of narratives, so there’s no need to rush. If you enjoy literature with comedic elements, begin by exploring the comedy genre.

Related Activities

The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin - Elements of Mystery

Reading Material to Start With

Start with article number one and work your way down the list. When you are happy you understand each article within the genre, move on to the next set of articles.

A Washington Post Newspaper Report of Hurricane Ian
The short story called "The Fall of the House of Usher" by Edgar Allan Poe
The historical fiction novel by Christopher Paul Curtis: Bud, Not Buddy .
"The Miracle Worker" by William Gibson
The famous play by the one and only William Shakespeare, “Romeo & Juliet”
"Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller
"The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost
"A Poison Tree" by William Blake
"Still I Rise" by Maya Angelou

How to Get a Deeper Understanding

To get a deeper meaning of each genre, get your pen and paper ready and start to highlight the key ideas throughout. It can help to get your understanding of the writings by doing a summary for each one. Once you have done this, start to think about the following key things for each genre:

What is the author’s purpose?
Who is the audience?
What are the main ideas?
How does the structure help to emphasize the purpose?
What literary devices are used and why?
How does the author’s style contribute to the meaning of the text?

Plays can be trickier as you cannot always rely on the written word to give you all the information. This is where watching a performance of the play can come in handy, as it will give you a much better understanding. In addition to the above, when watching a play, you should also be thinking about:

How does the stagecraft contribute to the meaning of the play?
What do the costumes and makeup tell us about the characters?
How does the lighting help to create mood and atmosphere?
What do the sound effects and music add to the play?

When reading poetry, it is essential to think about both the literal and figurative meanings of the words. This can be difficult at first, but there are some helpful strategies that you can use. For example, you can try reading the poem aloud or reading it multiple times. You can also look up words you don’t understand and try to break the poem down into smaller chunks. In addition to the above, when reading poetry, you should also be thinking about:

What is the speaker’s tone?
What is the poem's mood?
What are the main themes of the poem?
How does the poet use literary devices to create meaning?
What is the poem’s form, and how does it contribute to the meaning?

Using a storyboard exercise like StoryBoard That can be helpful when trying to understand the genres. You can map out the key ideas and events for each one, as well as the literary devices that are used. This is a great way to see the genres side-by-side, compare and contrast them and visualize things better.

Related Resources

Picture Encyclopedia of Literary Genres
Picture Encyclopedia of Literary Elements
Elements of an Epic
The Five Act Play Structure

How To Incorporate Multicultural Perspectives Into The Study Of Literary Genres

Select texts from diverse authors and cultures.

Choose texts that represent a variety of cultures and perspectives, and that offer insights into different literary traditions and styles. This might involve reading and researching texts from authors and cultures that are different from your own and seeking out recommendations from colleagues, libraries, or online resources.

Discuss Cultural Context and Historical Background

Provide background information and historical context for each text, including information about the author and the cultural and historical context in which the text was written. This can help students understand the unique perspectives and literary traditions represented in each text.

Explore Themes and Literary Devices From Multicultural Perspectives

Encourage students to explore themes and literary devices from a variety of cultural perspectives, such as examining the role of family or community in different cultures, or analyzing how language and storytelling are used in different literary traditions.

Foster Discussion and Collaboration

Encourage open discussion and collaboration among students, and create opportunities for them to share their own perspectives and experiences. This can help students build empathy and understanding for different cultures and perspectives.

Encourage Independent Research and Exploration

Encourage students to research and explore additional texts and authors from different cultures and perspectives on their own. Provide resources and recommendations for students to pursue independent reading and research.

Integrate Multimedia and Other Resources

Integrate multimedia and other resources, such as videos, podcasts, or guest speakers, to enhance students' understanding of different cultures and perspectives. This can help bring the text to life and make it more relevant and engaging for students.

Frequently Asked Questions about Literary Genres

What is a literary genre.

A literary genre is a category or type of literature characterized by common themes, styles, and narrative conventions. It serves as a way to classify and categorize literary works based on shared characteristics and elements. Common literary forms include fiction, non-fiction, and various subgenres within these categories, such as science fiction, romance or love stories, mystery, and historical fiction. This literary genre definition encapsulates the essence of storytelling, providing a framework for understanding and appreciating the various forms, themes, and styles that contribute to the rich tapestry of literature.

What are some examples of different types of fiction genres?

Some well known types of fiction are: mystery, realistic fiction, historical fiction, fables and fairy tales, adventure, magical realism, and science fiction.

What are some examples of different types of nonfiction?

Some common types are biographies, autobiographies, speeches, letters, and informational texts.

What are the 3 forms of literature?

The three main forms of literature are prose, poetry, and drama. Prose encompasses written or spoken language without a metrical structure and includes written forms like novels, short stories, essays, and articles. Poetry employs heightened and imaginative language, often with rhyme and meter, to evoke emotions and convey complex ideas. Drama is written for performance and includes plays, scripts, and screenplays intended for actors to act out on stage or screen. These three forms represent the foundational structure of literary expression, offering diverse avenues for storytelling, creativity, and artistic communication.

What are the five main genres?

Fiction: This genre includes works of imaginative storytelling that are not based on real events. It encompasses various subgenres such as science fiction, fantasy, historical fiction, and mystery.
Non-fiction: Non-fiction literature is based on real events, facts, and information. This genre includes biographies, autobiographies, essays, memoirs, and other works that present factual content.
Poetry: Poetry is a form of literary expression that uses rhythmic and metaphorical language to evoke emotions and convey ideas. It often relies on heightened language and various poetic devices.
Drama: Drama involves the portrayal of characters in conflict, usually in a play format. It explores human emotions and relationships through dialogue and performance. Classic examples include works by playwrights like William Shakespeare.
Mystery/Thriller: This genre revolves around suspenseful and puzzling narratives. Mystery literature often involves solving a crime or uncovering hidden truths, while thrillers aim to keep readers on the edge of their seats with tension and excitement.

What are the categories of literature?

Here are some common categories used to classify literature:

Genre: Fiction: Includes novels, short stories, and novellas. This category encompasses a wide range of genres, such as science fiction, fantasy, romance, historical fiction, and more. Non-fiction: Involves works based on real events, facts, and information. This category includes biographies, autobiographies, essays, memoirs, and journalistic works.
Form: Poetry: Characterized by the use of rhythmic and metaphorical language. Poetry often focuses on emotional expression and aesthetic qualities of language. Drama: Consists of plays and scripts written for performance. It includes tragedies, comedies, and other theatrical forms.
Period or Movement: Classical Literature: Refers to works from ancient Greece and Rome. Medieval Literature: Covers works from the Middle Ages. Renaissance Literature: Encompasses the revival of arts and learning in Europe during the Renaissance. Modern Literature: Includes works from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. Contemporary Literature: Encompasses works from the mid-20th century to the present.
Nationality or Cultural Identity: American Literature, British Literature, World Literature: Literature can be classified based on the nationality or cultural identity of the author or the setting of the work.
Literary Movements: Romanticism, Realism, Naturalism, Modernism, Postmodernism: Literature can be categorized based on the dominant artistic and intellectual movements of a particular time.
Themes or Topics: Social Issues: Literature that addresses and explores societal problems, inequalities, and issues. Historical Fiction: Works set in a specific historical period, often incorporating historical events and figures.
Age Group: Children's Literature, Young Adult Literature, Adult Literature: Works are sometimes categorized based on the target age group of the readers.

What are subgenres?

Subgenres in literature refer to more specific categories or classifications within the broader genres. They help to further define and categorize works based on shared characteristics, themes, or stylistic elements.

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13 Make Your “Move”: Writing in Genres

Brad Jacobson; Madelyn Pawlowski; and Christine Tardy

When approaching new genres, students often wonder what kind of information to include and how. [1] Rhetorical moves analysis, a type of genre analysis, offers a useful, practical approach for students to understand how writers achieve their goals in a genre through various writing strategies. In this chapter, we introduce students to moves analysis, first describing what it is and then explaining various strategies for analyzing moves. The chapter walks students through moves analysis with both a familiar low-stakes genre (student absence emails) and a less familiar professional genre (grant proposals), demonstrating how such an analysis can be carried out. The goal of the chapter is to familiarize students with rhetorical moves analysis as a practical tool for understanding new genres and for identifying options that can help writers carry out their goals.

I f you are like most students, you’ve probably had to miss a class at some point. Maybe you were sick, stayed up too late the night before, or just weren’t prepared. When you’ve found yourself in this situation, have you emailed your professor about your absence? If so, how much information did you share? Did you include an apology, or maybe an explanation of how you plan to make up any missed work?

You may not realize it, but the email written to a teacher in this situation can be considered a genre . You’ve probably heard the term genre used in relation to music, film, art, or literature, but it is also used to describe non-literary writing, like the writing we do in our personal lives, at school, and at work. These genres can be thought of as categories of writing . These categories are based on what the writing is trying to do, as well as who it is written for and the context it is written in (Dirk; Miller). For instance, a condolence card or message carries out the action (or goal) of sharing your sympathy with someone. A student absence email lets a teacher know about an absence and might also request information for how to make up a missed class.

You encounter many genres every day. In your personal life, these might include to-do lists, menus, political ads, and text messages to schedule a get-together. In school, you may write in genres like proposals, lab reports, and university admission essays. People in professions often write in highly specialized genres: nurses write care plans; lawyers write legal briefs; scientists write research articles, and so on. (For a more in-depth introduction to the definition and functions of genre, check out Dirk’s “Navigating Genres” chapter in Writing Spaces Vol. 1.)

Texts within a genre category aren’t identical, but they often resemble each other in many ways. For example, they might use similar kinds of vocabulary and grammar, design features, content, and patterns for organizing their content. Because of these resemblances, we can often recognize texts as belonging to a particular genre—as in figure 1.

Four-star restaurant review of Boca Tacos & Tequila

If you recognized this text as a consumer restaurant review, you likely have read similar reviews before, and you’ve started to get a sense of what they “look like.” This is how genres work: When we repeatedly encounter texts within a genre, we get a sense of the language and content they tend to use, as well as how they arrange that language and content. Successful writers have a good idea of how to write effectively in particular genres— this means satisfying readers’ expectations for the genre but maybe also making a text fresh and interesting. Can you think of a time you had to write in a new or unfamiliar genre for the first time? You might have gotten stuck with where to start or what to include. Writing in a new genre can be hard if you don’t yet know the expectations for content, language, and organization. In this chapter, we’ll share a specific strategy that can help you through these kinds of challenges. More specifically, we will look at how to identify and analyze the rhetorical moves of a genre.

What Are Rhetorical Moves?

Most likely, the term rhetorical moves is new to you. It may sound intimidating, but it’s just a (sort of) fancy phrase to describe something you probably already do. Rhetorical moves—also just called moves —are the parts of a text that carry out specific goals; they help writers accomplish the main action of the genre (Swales). For example, a typical wedding invitation in the United States includes moves like inviting (“You are invited to attend…”) and providing venue information (“…at the Tucson Botanical Gardens”). These moves are necessary to carry out the genre’s main action; without an inviting move, an invitation could easily fail to accomplish its goal, and without a providing venue information move , attendees won’t know where to go! A wedding invitation can also include optional moves like recognizing parents (“Jordan and Jaime Taylor request your company at…”) or signaling appropriate attire (“Black tie optional”). Optional moves often respond to specific aspects of a situation or give writers a way to express certain identities or personal goals. Wedding invitations in different countries or cultural communities can have different common moves as well. In China, for example, wedding invitations often include the character for double happiness (囍).

Even a text as short as a restaurant review can include multiple moves. The main action of a restaurant review is to tell other people about the restaurant so that they can decide whether to eat there or not, so the moves that a writer includes work toward that goal. The review in Figure 1 includes three moves:

evaluating the restaurant overall (“The food was amazing!”)
evaluating specific dishes (“…one of the best carne asada burros I’ve had…,” “Their salsa was amazing…”)
providing details about the price (“It was a little on the pricey side…”)

After looking at just one restaurant review, we don’t really know if these are typical moves or if they are just unique to this one consumer’s review. To understand what moves are common to consumer restaurant reviews (which might be a bit different than professional restaurant reviews), we need to look at many examples of texts in that genre. As a writer, it can be very useful to look for moves that are required (sometimes called obligatory moves ), common, optional, and rare. You can also think about moves that never seem to occur and consider why that might be the case. For example, have you ever seen a wedding invitation mention whether this is someone’s second (or third) marriage? Or that mentions how much the wedding is going to cost? Those particular moves would probably confuse some readers and not help achieve the goal of the genre!

Analyzing Rhetorical Moves

Analyzing rhetorical moves is the process of identifying moves in multiple samples of a genre, looking for patterns across these texts, and thinking critically about the role these moves play in helping the genre function. To get started with moves analysis, you just need a few strategies we’ll show you throughout the rest of this chapter. We ourselves have used these strategies in situations where we had to write in unfamiliar genres. As a new professor, Madelyn recently had to write her first annual review report—a document used to track her career progress. The instructions she was given were a bit vague and confusing, so she gathered samples of annual reviews from her colleagues to get a better sense of the typical length and type of content included in this genre. One sample she looked at used an elaborate chart, which made her quite nervous because she had no idea how to make this kind of chart for her own report! But after realizing that this chart was not included in the other samples, she decided this move was probably optional and decided to not include it. In this case, understanding the typical moves of the annual review report helped Madelyn avoid unnecessary stress and feel confident her report would meet readers’ expectations.

Before trying to figure out a complicated or unfamiliar genre, it will help to practice first with something familiar like a student absence email. Having received hundreds of these emails as professors (and written a few ourselves), we know this genre is characterized by some typical rhetorical moves as well as a great deal of variation. Let’s walk through the process of carrying out a rhetorical moves analysis.

Identifying Typical Moves of a Genre

The emails in Table 1 were all written by college students (referred to here by pseudonyms). We only share four samples here, but it’s better to gather 5-10 or even more samples of a genre to really get a sense of common features, especially when you are working with a more complex or unfamiliar genre. To identify typical rhetorical moves, first, you’ll want to identify the moves in each individual text you collect. Remember that a move is a part of the text that helps the writer carry out a particular function or action. For this reason, it is helpful to label moves with a verb or an “action” word. When you sense that the writer is doing something different or performing a new “action,” you’ve probably identified another rhetorical move. A move can be one sentence long, an entire paragraph, or even longer, and your interpretation of a move might differ from someone else’s interpretation. That’s okay!

Rhetorical moves in four sample absence emails

Dear Dr. Pawlowski,

[1] I just wanted to tell you that I will be absent from class today. [2] I have completed my mid-term evaluation and I have started my annotated bibliography. If I have any other questions I will ask my study partner! [3] Thank you, and I will see you on Friday!

Jay Johnson

Dear Professor,

[1] I am sorry but [2] today I am missing class [3] because I have to take my cat to the vet due to an emergency. [4] Could you let me know what I need to do to make up the missed material? [5]

Thank you for your understanding,

Good morning,

I hope you had a wonderful spring break. [1] I am still experiencing cold symptoms from the cold I caught during the start of spring break. It was mainly from digestive problems (bathroom issues) coming from medication that [2] I had trouble coming to class yesterday. [3] I would like to apologize for any inconvenience I might have caused.

[4] I am continually working on the final assignment that is due tomorrow. [5] If I am not able to turn it in on time, could I possibly have a 24 hour extension? If not, I understand. [6] Thank you as always and I hope to see you tomorrow.

Best Wishes,

[1] Sorry but [2] I won’t be in class today.

Look at how we labeled the moves in these four samples. We did this by first reading each sample individually and thinking about how different parts achieve actions. We then labeled these parts with verb phrases to describe the writer’s moves. In some texts, multiple sentences worked together to help the writer accomplish a particular goal, so we grouped those sentences together and labeled them as a single move (notice move 2 in Sample 1). Sometimes we found that a single sentence helped to accomplish multiple goals, so we labeled multiple moves in a single sentence (notice Sample 4). Don’t worry if you feel like you aren’t locating the “right” moves or labeling them appropriately; this is not an exact science! You might choose different labels or identify more or fewer moves than someone else analyzing the same samples. To find a fitting label for a move, it’s helpful to ask, “What is the writer doing in this part of the text?” To keep consistency in your labeling, it might also help to ask, “Have I seen something like this before in a different sample?” Looking at how we labeled the moves, would you agree with our labels? Do you see any additional moves? Would you have broken up the samples differently?

After identifying moves in individual samples, the next step is to compare the samples, looking for similarities and differences to better understand what moves seem typical (or unusual) for the genre. Based on our labels in Table 1, what moves do you see most and least frequently? A table is useful for this step, especially when you are working with longer or more complex genres and want to visualize the similarities and differences between samples. In Table 2, we listed all of the moves found in the four samples, noted which samples included each move, and decided whether each move seemed obligatory, common, optional, or rare for this particular genre based on how often it appeared. If we noticed the move in every sample, we labeled it as “obligatory,” but if we only saw a move in one or two samples, we figured it might be more optional or rare. We need to be careful, however, about making definite conclusions about what is or is not a typical feature of a genre when looking at such a small set of texts. We would probably locate many more moves or develop a different analysis with a larger sample size. Nevertheless, check out our findings in Table 1.

Table 1. Comparing moves across samples

Informing the teacher that an absence occurred/will occur	✓	✓	✓	✓	Obligatory
Apologizing for absence		✓	✓	✓	Common
Explaining reason for absence		✓	✓		Common
Requesting an accommodation			✓		Optional or rare
Requesting information about missed material		✓			Optional or rare
Taking responsibility for missed work	✓		✓		Common
Expressing gratitude	✓	✓	✓		Common

Understanding How Moves Help Carry out the Genre’s Social Actions

We now want to consider how certain moves help the genre function. Start by asking yourself, “What does the genre help the readers and writers do ?” and “How do certain moves help carry out these actions?” Keep in mind that a genre may serve multiple purposes. You might send an email to excuse yourself from an upcoming class, to explain a previous absence (see Sample 3), ask questions about missed material (see Sample 2), to request an extension on an assignment (see Sample 3), and so on.

Based on Table 1, at least one move could be considered essential for this genre because it is found in all four samples: informing the instructor about an absence. This move helps the writer make the purpose of the email explicit. Sometimes this simple announcement is almost all that an absence email includes (see Sample 4). Can you imagine trying to write an absence email without mentioning the absence? Would such an email even belong in this genre? Along with a general announcement of the absence, students often include information about when the absence occurred or will occur, especially if they need more information about missed material.

Some of the moves we labeled as optional or rare in Table 2 are not necessarily ineffective or inappropriate, but they might not always be needed depending on the writer’s intentions or the context of the missed class. Sample 2 includes a request for information about missed material, and Sample 3 includes a request for an accommodation. Do the emails with requests leave a different impression than the samples without? Do the writers of requests carry them out in similar ways?

We could continue going through each move, looking for patterns and considering rhetorical effects by asking a) why each move is typical or not, b) what role each move plays in carrying out the genre’s purpose(s), and c) how and why moves are sequenced in a particular way.

Identifying Options and Variations in Moves

Variation across genre samples is likely to occur because of differences in context, audience, and writers’ preferences. But some genres allow for more variation than others. If you’ve ever written a lab report, you likely received very specific instructions about how to describe the materials and methods you used in an experiment and how to report and discuss your findings. Other school genres, like essays you might write in an English or Philosophy course, allow for more flexibility when it comes to both content and structure. If you notice a lot of variation across samples, this might mean that the genre you are looking at is flexible and open to variations, but this could also indicate that you need to label the moves more consistently or that you are actually looking at samples of different genres.

Based on our observations and analysis, the student absence email appears to have some degree of flexibility in both content and organizational structure. There is variation, for example, in how detailed the students are in providing a reason for their absence. Sample 2 mentions an emergency vet visit, providing just enough detail to show that the absence was justifiable and unexpected. Sample 3 also includes an explanation for the absence, but the writer chose to include a far more personal and detailed reason (a cold caught on spring break and bathroom issues from medication? Perhaps TMI (too much information)?). There is also a great deal of variation in the structure of the emails or the sequence of moves. In Sample 3, the student doesn’t mention their absence until the third sentence whereas all the other writers lead with this information. What other differences do you see? How do you think a professor would respond to each email? Understanding your options as a writer and learning how to identify their purposes and effects can help you make informed choices when navigating a new or unfamiliar genre.

Identifying Common Language Features

Writers make linguistic choices to carry out moves, and oftentimes you’ll find similarities across samples of a genre. While there are seemingly infinite features of language we could analyze, here are some to consider:

passive/active voice
contractions (e.g., it’s, I’m, we’re, you’ve)
sentence types
sentence structures
word choice
use of specialized vocabulary
use of pronouns

To dig deeper into the linguistic features of moves, we could take a few different approaches. First, we could view the genre samples side-by-side and look for language-level patterns. This method works well when your genre samples are short and easy to skim. We noticed, for example, that all four student absence emails use first-person pronouns ( I , me , my , we , us ), which makes sense given that this genre is a type of personal correspondence. Would it be possible to write in this genre without using personal pronouns?

Our analysis could also focus on how language is used to carry out a single move across genre samples. Using this method, we noticed that in both of the samples that included requests to the teacher, the students use the auxiliary verb could to make their requests. In Sample 2, Layla asks, “Could you let me know what I need to do to make up the missed material?” In Sample 3, Corey asks, “Could I possibly have a 24-hour extension?” There are other possibilities for phrasing both questions more directly, such as “What do I need to do?” or “Can I have a 24-hour extension?” Why might it be beneficial to phrase requests indirectly in this genre?

You don’t need to be a linguistic expert to analyze language features of a genre. Sometimes all it takes is noticing a word that seems out of place (like the use of the greeting “Hi” instead of “Dear Professor”) or finding a phrase that is repeated across genre samples. Or you might start with a feeling you get while reading samples of a genre: the samples might generally feel formal or you might notice a humorous tone. Noticing language features helps you more closely analyze how certain moves are carried out and to what effect .

Critiquing Moves

To critique means to offer a critical evaluation or analysis. By critiquing a genre, we are doing more than identifying its faults or limitations, though that can certainly be part of the process. We might also look for potential strengths of the genre and possibilities for shifting, adapting, or transforming it. The use of the greeting “Hi” in Sample 4 could be an interesting start to a critique about how formal this genre is or should be. While we understand why some professors find it too informal to be addressed with a “Hi” or “Hey,” we also see this move as evidence of how the genre’s norms and expectations are seemingly changing. We personally don’t find these greetings as jarring or inappropriate as we might have 5-10 years ago. Our reactions might have to do with our individual teaching styles, but email etiquette may also be changing more broadly. To pursue this line of inquiry, we could collect more samples of student emails written to other professors and maybe even talk to those professors about their reactions to informal email greetings. Or we could talk to students about why they choose to use formal or informal greetings in these emails. To conduct a critique or analysis of a genre, it is sometimes useful to gather more samples or more information about the context in which the genre is used. Talking to actual users of the genre is often especially useful (see how Brad’s students did this in the next section). Here are some questions to get you started on a critique of rhetorical moves (some have been adapted from Devitt, et al.’s Scenes of Writing ):

Do all moves have a clear purpose and help carry out the social actions of the genre?
What is the significance behind the sequence of the moves?
What are consequences for the writer or other users if certain moves are included, or not?
Who seems to have freedom to break from common moves? Who does not?
What do the moves suggest about the relationship between the writers and users of this genre? How might this relationship impact the inclusion/exclusion of certain moves?
What do the moves suggest about the values of a broader community (i.e. a specific class, a specific institution, or the entire educational system of the region)?

Applying Moves Analysis: Writing a Statement of Need

Moves analysis can help as you write in different classes or other personal or professional situations. Let’s take a look at how we can use moves analysis to approach a complicated or unfamiliar genre. You can use the chart in the Appendix as you follow along.

In one of Brad’s writing courses, students used moves analysis when they wrote a grant proposal on behalf of a local nonprofit organization. Grant proposals are common in academic and professional contexts. The goal of a grant proposal (the action it hopes to accomplish) is to convince a funder to support a project or initiative financially. In other words, “give us money!” Each granting agency—the organization with the money—has its own expectations in terms of format, organization, and even word count for proposals, but most include similar sections: a Statement of Need, Objectives for the project, Methods of implementing, Evaluation, and a proposed Budget (“How Do I Write a Grant Proposal?”). We can’t discuss all of these sections here, so in these next few paragraphs, we’ll walk you through a brief moves analysis of just the Statement of Need section (we’ll call it the Statement), just as Brad’s students did.

First, we need to understand what the Statement is hoping to accomplish and why it is important. According to Candid Learning, a support website for grant seekers, a Statement “describes a problem and explains why you require a grant to address the issue” (“How Do I Write”). This section lays out the stakes of the problem and proposes the solution. To learn more about how these Statements work, Brad’s class reviewed several samples from Candid Learning’s collection of successful grant proposals (“Sample Documents”). Let’s take a look at some of the moves students identified in three samples. These proposals were requesting funds for educational development in Uganda (Proposal from Building Tomorrow), an interpreter training center (Proposal from Southeast Community College), and community-based art programming (Proposal from The Griot Project).

Identifying Typical Moves in Statements of Need

First, Brad and his students identified moves in the individual Statements, using verbs to describe them. Then, we compared moves across the samples. Here are three of the moves we found:

Connect Proposal to Broad Social Issue

The writers included statistics or other data from credible sources as a way to establish the need or problem and connect to broader societal issues. Here are a few examples of this move in action:

UNICEF and USAIDS estimate that 42 million children in this region alone are without access to primary education. (Proposal from Building Tomorrow)
A study, published in January of 2006 in the journal Pediatrics shows that ad hoc interpreters were much more likely than professionally trained interpreters to make errors that could lead to serious clinical consequences, concluding that professionally trained medical interpreters are essential in health care facilities. (Proposal from Southeast Community College)

Why do you think the writers reference respected sources, like UNICEF, USAIDS, and the journal Pediatrics ? Brad’s students thought this move could both help the grant writer build credibility with their reader and show how the project will impact a social problem that goes beyond their local context. We did not see this move in all of the samples, so we’d say this move is common but not necessarily obligatory for this genre.

Demonstrate Local Need

Grant writers have to show the local problem their project is going to solve and why it’s needed. For example:

Officials in the Wakiso District of Uganda…estimate that 55% of the district’s 600,000 children do not have access to education. (Proposal from Building Tomorrow)
Statewide, 143,251 people speak a language other than English at home. In Lancaster County, that number is 24,717, up 260% since 1990 (U.S. Census 1990, 2000, 2005). (Proposal from Southeast Community College)
As community constituents, we have observed a lack of after school and summer enrichment projects that utilize the power of art as a means of community unification. (Proposal from The Griot Project)

Students decided this move is obligatory because it’s in all of the samples. This makes sense because grant writers need to show why their project is important. Referencing outside sources appears to be common within this move, but not required. Why do you think referencing outside sources could be effective, given this move’s role in the genre?

Identify Solution and/or Impact

At some point in the Statement, usually at the end, the grant writer explains how their proposed project will meet the need they identified:

By opening doors to new, accessible neighborhood classrooms, BT can help reduce the dropout rate, provide children with the opportunity to receive a valuable education, and be an instrumental partner in building a better tomorrow. (Proposal from Building Tomorrow)

Brad’s students noticed this move in all of the Statements. Why do you think this move seems to be obligatory ?

Given what we know about grant proposals and the Statement, these moves seem to be rhetorically effective when sequenced in the order described above: connect to a societal problem, demonstrate local need, and identify a solution or describe the impact of the proposed project. Using these three basic moves helps writers show that their proposed work is important and that they have a plan to solve a problem with the grant money. Understanding the Statement in this way led Brad’s students to conduct further research into issues like food scarcity and access to health care that affected their partner organizations so they could make connections to social issues in their Statements.

The three moves identified were used in most of the grant proposals Brad’s students read. But students did notice variation. Remember that even when moves seem obligatory or common, they won’t necessarily be found in the same order. For example, one proposal identified the local need before connecting to a broader issue, and The Griot Project’s proposal did not include the connecting move at all, instead focusing solely on local knowledge to make their case. Why do you think this might be? Here, it may help to learn more about the audience. The Griot Project’s grant proposal was submitted to Neighborhood Connections, an organization that provides “money and support for grassroots initiatives in the cities of Cleveland and East Cleveland.” When the grant writers say, “As community constituents, we have observed…,” they are localizing their efforts and showing how their project can be considered a “grassroots initiative.” Understanding the audience can be one factor in understanding variation among samples.

When students looked across the samples, they noticed personal pronouns like I , we , or us were optional or rare . In fact, the only personal pronoun was in the demonstrating local need move, where one organization referenced their own observation (“we have observed”) to demonstrate the local need. However, they shifted back to third person when identifying the impact (“the Griot Project will improve”), like the other samples. Why do you think the writers included themselves so explicitly in the text when demonstrating the local need , while the rest of the samples maintained a more distant position? What might be gained with this choice, and why might some writers hesitate? Why do you think all of the writers used third person pronouns when identifying the organization’s impact ?

Students also noticed a common sentence structure in the identifying move, which we called “By x-ing.” Each of the grant writers used a single sentence and a By x-ing phrase to connect the proposed intervention to an outcome. For example, “ By opening doors…BT can help reduce the dropout rate…” (emphasis added). Why do you think this sentence structure seems to be common within this move?

Staff members from an organization supporting economic development on Native American sovereign lands reminded members of Brad’s class that writing a grant proposal means representing an organization and the people and communities it serves. With this in mind, they asked students to emphasize the resilience of the community rather than perpetuate negative stereotypes in the grant proposals; they didn’t want a pity campaign. As a result of this conversation, students decided to highlight local conditions like a lack of grocery stores and access to transportation before introducing statistics about obesity and diabetes rates. They also included pictures of happy families to counter stereotypical images of poverty. In this way, critique of the genre led to subtle, yet important, transformation.

Clearly, a moves analysis like this could go on for a while! Remember, we’re not looking for the “right” answer—we’re trying to understand the options that we have as we begin to contribute our own examples to the genre.

Producing and Transforming Genres using Moves Analysis

Carrying out a moves analysis is more than just an academic exercise. You can use this process whenever you need to write in a new genre. Maybe you are applying for summer internships and you are writing a cover letter for the first time. Instead of starting from what you think a cover letter might look like, you can find several samples and conduct a moves analysis to identify features of this genre. You might also want to try pushing the boundaries a bit. Sometimes, playing with moves or incorporating additional moves in a genre can lead to interesting innovations or new uses for a genre. For each writing situation, you’ll want to decide whether it makes sense to take some risks and be innovative or to stick with more typical approaches. Conducting a moves analysis can be your first step to considering how to carry out your goals, and maybe even expressing your individuality, in a new genre.

Works Cited

Devitt, Amy, et al. Scenes of Writing . Pearson Education, 2004.

Dirk, Kerry. “Navigating Genres.” Writing Spaces: Readings on Writing , Volume 1, edited by Charles Lowe and Pavel Zemliansky, Parlor Press/The WAC Clearinghouse, 2010, pp. 249-262.

“How Do I Write a Grant Proposal for My Individual Project? Where Can I Find Samples?” Candid.Learning , Candid, 2020, learning.candid.org/resources/knowledge-base/grant-proposals-for-individual-projects/ .

Hyon, Sunny. Introducing Genre and English for Specific Purposes . Routledge, 2018.

Miller, Carolyn R. “Genre as Social Action.” Quarterly Journal of Speech , vol. 70, no. 2, 1984 pp. 151-167.

“Proposal from Building Tomorrow to Echoing Green.” Candid.Learning , Candid, 2020, https://learning.candid.org/resources/sample-documents/proposal-from-building-tomorrow-to-echoing-green/

“Proposal from The Griot Project to Neighborhood Connections.” Candid.Learning , Candid, 2020, https://learning.candid.org/resources/sample-documents/proposal-from-the-griot-project-to-neighborhood-connections/

“Sample Documents”. Candid.Learning , Candid, 2020, https://learning.candid.org/resources/sample-documents/

“Proposal from Southeast Community College to Community Health Endowment of Lincoln.” Candid.Learning , Candid, 2020, https://learning.candid.org/resources/sample-documents/proposal-from-southeast-community-college-to-community-health-endowment-of-lincoln/

Swales, John M. Genre Analysis: English in Academic and Research Settings . Cambridge University Press, 1990.

Tardy, Christine M. Genre-Based Writing: What Every ESL Teacher Needs to Know . University of Michigan, 2019.

Appendix Guiding Questions for Analyzing and Using Rhetorical Moves

Identifying typical moves.

Which moves seem obligatory or necessary to achieve the genre’s action(s)?
Which moves seem common, but not necessary?
Which moves seem optional or rare?

Identifying how moves help carry out the genre’s actions

How does each move work to achieve the action or goal of the genre?
How do the moves work together, given what you know of the typical audience(s), purpose(s), and context(s) of the genre’s use?

Identifying options and variations

What organizational patterns (sequence, order) do you notice among the moves?
How do different audiences or contexts seem to affect the moves?
How do writers use language?

Identifying common language features

verb tense (present, past, future)
contractions (e.g. it’s, I’m, we’re, you’ve)
sentence types punctuation

Critiquing rhetorical moves

What do the moves suggest about the relationship between the writers and users of this genre?
How might this relationship impact the inclusion/exclusion of certain moves?

Teacher Resources for Make Your “Move”: Writing in Genres

Overview and teaching strategies.

Rhetorical moves analysis is an adaptable strategy for analyzing, producing, and transforming genres. In this chapter, we walk students through an inductive process that makes visible the ways language choices and writing strategies like organization or structure are connected to the social action of a given genre. Moves analysis is thus a teaching strategy that can help demystify how writing works. Students do not need to have in-depth knowledge of genre theory to conduct a moves analysis, but it will be important for them to understand the concept of genre as social action. This chapter will work well paired with Kerry Dirk’s “Understanding Genres” in Writing Spaces , volume 1, and/or Dan Melzer’s “Understanding Discourse Communities” in volume 3. Connections can also be made to Mike Bunn’s “Reading Like a Writer” in volume 2.

In a sense, conducting a moves analysis in a writing class is similar to what writers at all levels do all the time: gather some samples of work we find effective, try to figure out what specifically makes the samples effective, and then do those things (or transform them) in our own writing. Moves analysis is a flexible strategy that can be introduced when students begin reading a new genre or during their writing process. Christine likes to introduce moves analysis with short familiar genres (like the student absence email example in this chapter), and then return to moves analysis throughout a course when students approach a new genre. Madelyn uses moves analysis to help students identify obligatory, common, optional, and rare genre features as a way of collaboratively negotiating assignment guidelines and expectations, and identified moves become a part of the assessment criteria for student work in a given genre. Brad likes to use moves analysis after students have already written a first draft. After conducting the moves analysis in small groups and identifying some of the obligatory, common, and unusual moves as a class, students can then go back to their draft and make choices based on the analysis.

One of the biggest challenges in facilitating moves analysis is selecting sample texts for analysis. The goal is to identify a narrow enough genre that the texts will be relatively similar, but also flexible enough to show variation. For example, in the student absence emails, we are clearly able to see variation across individual texts, but there are also common moves. If our sample set were broadened to also include faculty absence emails, we would probably start to identify slightly different patterns with moves. Some other shorter examples we’ve used to introduce moves analysis in class include wedding invitations, thank you notes, mission statements, obituaries, and protest signs, among others. If asking students to select their own samples, it will be important to emphasize the difference between a modality (email) and a genre (student absence email).

We also need to acknowledge the concern that moves analysis can reinscribe a prescriptivism or focus on correctness that the field’s pedagogical focus on genre seeks to avoid. However, it’s important to recognize that the textual and discursive borrowing that emerges from moves analysis can provide students with effective rhetorical strategies and an entry point to discuss and critique discourses. Focusing discussion on how moves help to achieve an intended action and why particular moves are effective can also help students see the moves as conventions, not rules. The instructor should select a range of effective samples that demonstrate variation, and should identify outliers to raise for discussion. If students look at a range of examples, they are very likely to find variation; therefore, moves analysis can actually help highlight variation within a genre and show how writers have options to achieve their aims. Students can also be encouraged to use moves analysis to bend or remix a genre and compare the effects (Tardy). Like many pedagogical strategies, moves analysis can be a tool for reproducing, critiquing, and/or transforming hegemonic writing practices.

Activities and Process

While there are many possible ways to conduct a moves analysis in a class setting, we have generally had success using the following process:

First, conduct a moves analysis of a familiar genre.

The student absence email is our go-to genre because student writers have a close understanding of the rhetorical purposes and it brings some levity to the analysis process. By using the examples in this chapter or drawing on real student emails—anonymous, of course—teachers can also show some outliers or ineffective examples that elicit some knowing nods or laughs. Once students identify the genre, a brief discussion of context can elicit an understanding of the social action of this genre. We begin by modeling the process of moves analysis with one sample, helping students label each move with actions . Then, in small groups, we ask students to identify and analyze the moves in additional samples. We remind students that moves can be a sentence, a paragraph, or even just a few words, and we ask students to name them with a verb. In the absence emails, students will often use descriptive phrases like “why absent” or “apology”; it may be necessary to explicitly teach how to convert these descriptions into action-oriented phrases like, “providing reasons for absence” and “apologizing for absence.” In more academic genres, students may fall into generalized terminology like “introduction;” the introduction, however, is usually composed of multiple rhetorical moves (Swales).

After identifying the moves, each small group can share out the moves they identified. It’s okay (and expected) that groups will use different terminology. Then, discuss how these moves facilitate the action of the genre . What are students generally trying to achieve with these absence emails? How do the typical moves (apologizing, providing reasons, expressing gratitude etc.) help to facilitate this goal? This step—discussing why certain moves are used—is essential to helping students see moves as rhetorical rather than simply formal. A critique of the genre’s moves can elicit discussion of writer-audience relationship and the embedded power relations of schooling. (We have also found wedding invitations to be an excellent entry point for moves analysis with opportunity for critique and transformation.)

Next, analyze a less familiar genre.

Follow the same procedures to analyze a target genre. It’s helpful first to discuss the social action of the genre. For more complex genres, like grant proposals or academic articles, it may also help to focus on specific sections. Limiting the analysis to a specific section of a longer genre can both focus the activity and remind students that different sections or parts of a text can serve different rhetorical purposes. Once a set of moves have been identified in group and class discussion, creating a table of obligatory, common, optional, and rare moves can be helpful for guiding students to their choices. Again, be sure to leave time to discuss how the moves facilitate the action of the genre.

Finally, have students draft or revise using their knowledge of rhetorical moves.

If you typically require students to reflect on their writing, you may ask them to discuss the moves they chose to use (or not), and why they made those choices. Christine likes to have students put in-text comments in their final drafts identifying their rhetorical moves and explaining their choices for using them (or putting them in a certain order).

Resources and Samples for Moves Analysis

The Statement of Need excerpts provided in the chapter are from sample grant proposals posted to Candid Learning ( https://learning.candid.org ), a resource site for nonprofit organizations formerly known as GrantSpace. Candid Learning requires registration, but it is free and has a wealth of resources. The three samples shared in this chapter can be found on the sample proposal page: https://learning.candid.org/resources/sample-documents/?tab=tab-fullproposals . Some of these proposals even include feedback from the funder describing why the proposal is effective.

We have also used the WPA/CompPile bibliographies for annotated bibliographies ( https://wac.colostate.edu/comppile/wpa/ ). The Michigan Corpus of Upper-Level Student Papers (MICUSP) ( https://micusp.elicorpora.info/ ) includes successful student writing in a variety of genres by upper-level undergraduates and graduate students. Former student work can also make for excellent (and varied) samples for moves analysis.

For further discussion on carrying out moves analysis activities, see chapter 2 of Sunny Hyon’s Introducing Genre and English for Specific Purposes and chapter 4 of Christine M. Tardy’s Genre-Based Writing: What Every ESL Teacher Needs to Know .

Discussion Questions

The authors of this chapter present a brief moves analysis of “student absence emails.” Why do you think these moves have become typical of this genre? If you have written a similar email recently, discuss how or if your moves align with the moves described in the chapter. How might your relationship with your professor affect the moves you use in such an email? What other factors might affect your use of different moves, or even your language choices within those moves? How might the moves in an absence email compare to a “grade change request” or an “appointment request” email to a professor?
After analyzing student absence emails for moves, write three samples: one that you think is “prototypical” of this genre, one that you think would be poorly received by the instructor, and one that is not standard but would be especially successful . What did you learn from writing these samples? How did your moves analysis inform the choices you made in writing?
The discussion of the grant proposal Statement of Need suggests that audience awareness is important in deciding which moves may be obligatory and, perhaps, where innovation might be acceptable or even encouraged. What other factors might you consider when determining which moves will be effective in the genre you are writing?
Think about a time when you felt like you had to bend or transform the conventions of a genre in order to achieve your purpose. How did you make choices about which moves or conventions were necessary to keep, and which could be adapted?
Gather a few samples of a genre from a discourse community you belong to and conduct a brief moves analysis. What is the action this genre carries out and how do the moves help it achieve that action? What can the common moves tell you about how structure and language create and reflect this community? 6. Some genres tend to be more open to variation than others, including in their use of moves. Make a list of genres that you think are more open to variation and those in which bending the norms may be riskier. What kinds of things might affect your choices as a writer to depart from common moves or other features of a genre?
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) and is subject to the Writing Spaces Terms of Use. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ , email [email protected] , or send a letter to Creative Commons, PO Box 1866, Mountain View, CA 94042, USA. To view the Writing Spaces Terms of Use, visit http://writingspaces.org/terms-of-use . ↵

Make Your “Move”: Writing in Genres Copyright © 2021 by Brad Jacobson; Madelyn Pawlowski; and Christine Tardy is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Exploring the Different Genres of Writing

Introduction

When you explore the world of literature and writing, you come across a wide range of literary genres — categories and styles of writing. Each genre has its own themes, techniques, and storytelling methods. On the other hand, writing genres refer to the forms and formats that writers use in different settings such as academics, business, or creative fields.

Understanding these genres is important for several reasons:

It helps writers customize their work for specific audiences and purposes.
It allows readers to have expectations and better understand different texts.
For students and professionals, it enables effective communication in various contexts.

This article provides an overview of different writing genres. It explores everything from the imaginative worlds of fiction to the factual representation in nonfiction; from the structured formats in academic writing to the expressive freedom found in creative works; from the organized styles of business communication to the dynamic nature of online writing. Each section offers insights into what makes these genres unique and why they are significant.

Fiction Writing Genres

Fiction writing genres encompass a wide range of storytelling styles, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. Here are the key points to consider:

Explanation of Fiction Writing Genres

Fiction encompasses various genres, including realistic fiction, science fiction, and fantasy. Each genre offers a distinct narrative experience for readers.

Characteristics of Realistic Fiction

Realistic fiction portrays stories that could feasibly happen in real life, often focusing on everyday experiences and interpersonal relationships. This genre resonates with readers seeking relatable narratives.

Popular Authors and Books in the Realistic Fiction Genre

Notable authors such as Jodi Picoult and Jhumpa Lahiri have made significant contributions to realistic fiction literature. Their works, including “My Sister’s Keeper” and “The Namesake,” exemplify the depth of this genre.

Traits of Science Fiction Stories

Science fiction delves into speculative concepts, futuristic technology, and extraterrestrial elements. It captivates readers through imaginative storytelling and thought-provoking scenarios.

Well-Known Science Fiction Novels and Writers

Pioneering authors like Isaac Asimov and Ursula K. Le Guin have crafted seminal science fiction works such as “Foundation” and “The Left Hand of Darkness,” shaping the genre’s evolution.

Elements of Fantasy Writing

Fantasy writing transports readers to magical realms, featuring mythical creatures, enchanted landscapes, and epic quests. Its allure lies in the boundless creativity of world-building.

2. Nonfiction Writing Genres

Nonfiction writing genres encompass a wide range of literary forms that are based on real events, people, and facts. Unlike fiction writing, nonfiction focuses on presenting information and ideas that are grounded in reality. Understanding and exploring different nonfiction genres is crucial for both literature enthusiasts and researchers alike. Here, we will delve into the definition and exploration of nonfiction writing genres, highlighting their significance in literature and research.

Definition and Exploration of Nonfiction Writing Genres

Nonfiction writing genres are literary forms that aim to inform, educate, or persuade readers about real-life subjects. These genres offer a diverse array of styles and techniques to engage readers while presenting factual information. Nonfiction genres include biography, autobiography, essay, memoirs, journalism, travel writing, and more.

Significance of Different Nonfiction Genres in Literature and Research

Nonfiction genres play a vital role in expanding our knowledge and understanding of the world around us. They provide insights into the lives of influential individuals, historical events, scientific discoveries, social issues, and much more. By exploring different nonfiction genres, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for various subjects while broadening their perspectives.

Examples of Nonfiction Genres

Let’s take a closer look at three popular nonfiction genres:

Biography : Biographies focus on the life story of an individual, offering detailed accounts of their achievements, struggles, and impact on society. Some notable biographies include “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank and “Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson.
Autobiography : Autobiographies are written by individuals about their own lives. They provide personal reflections on experiences, challenges overcome, and personal growth. Examples include “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank (also categorized as a biography) and “The Story of My Experiments with Truth” by Mahatma Gandhi.
Essay : Essays are short pieces of nonfiction writing that express the author’s thoughts, ideas, and arguments on a particular topic. They can be persuasive, analytical, narrative, or descriptive in nature. Famous essayists like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Virginia Woolf have contributed significantly to this genre.

Nonfiction genres offer a rich tapestry of knowledge and insights, allowing readers to explore real-world topics from various perspectives. By immersing ourselves in the depths of nonfiction, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world we live in.

3. Academic Writing Genres

Academic writing genres encompass a range of styles each tailored for specific scholarly purposes. Recognizing the distinctive features and structures of these genres is crucial for effective scholarly communication.

Purpose : Provide a succinct summary of a larger work, enabling readers to quickly ascertain the paper’s purpose and conclusions.

Structure : Typically, an abstract includes the research question, methodology, results, and conclusions in a condensed form, often not exceeding 250 words.

Annotated Bibliographies

Purpose : Offer a comprehensive overview of sources related to a specific topic or research area. Each citation is followed by a brief evaluative and descriptive paragraph.

Structure : Entries are listed alphabetically and include the citation in a specific style (e.g., APA, MLA), with annotations that summarize the source’s content and assess its relevance to the research question.

Argument Essays

Purpose : Present a clear position on an issue and support it with evidence and reasoning. The goal is to persuade the reader of the essay’s thesis.

Structure : Opens with an introduction that presents the thesis statement, followed by body paragraphs that offer supporting evidence and analysis. A conclusion synthesizes the argument and reiterates the thesis’s significance.

Each academic writing genre serves as a tool for scholars to disseminate information, engage in intellectual discourse, and contribute to academic fields. Mastery over these forms allows for effective presentation of one’s research and ideas within the academic community.

How to Create an Effective Blog Post

Writing a blog post can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to it. But with the right approach, you can create an effective and engaging blog post that resonates with your audience. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Understand Your Audience

Before you start writing, it’s important to understand who your target audience is. What are their interests, pain points, and needs? By understanding your audience, you can tailor your content to address their specific needs and provide value.

2. Choose a Compelling Topic

The topic of your blog post plays a crucial role in attracting readers. It should be something that is relevant to your audience and sparks their interest. Look for trending topics in your industry or conduct keyword research to find popular topics that people are searching for.

3. Craft an Attention-Grabbing Headline

Your headline is the first thing that readers see, so it needs to be attention-grabbing and compelling. Use power words, ask a question, or make a bold statement to pique curiosity and entice readers to click on your post.

4. Write in a Conversational Tone

When writing a blog post, it’s important to adopt a conversational tone. Imagine that you’re having a conversation with your reader and write as if you’re speaking directly to them. This helps make your content more relatable and engaging.

5. Use Clear and Concise Language

Avoid using jargon or complex language in your blog posts. Instead, use simple and easy-to-understand language that anyone can grasp. Break down complex concepts into bite-sized chunks and use examples or analogies to explain them.

6. Break Up Your Content with Subheadings

Long paragraphs can be intimidating for readers and may cause them to lose interest. To make your blog post more scannable and easy to read, break up your content with subheadings. This helps readers navigate through your post and find the information they’re looking for.

7. Add Visuals to Enhance Your Content

Visual elements such as images, infographics, or videos can help break up text-heavy content and make it more visually appealing. They also serve as a powerful tool to convey information or illustrate key points in your blog post.

8. Optimize Your Post for SEO

Search engine optimization (SEO) is important to ensure that your blog post gets discovered by search engines and ranks well in search results. Use relevant keywords in your headline, subheadings, and throughout your content. Include meta tags, alt text for images, and internal/external links to improve your post’s SEO.

9. Edit and Proofread Your Post

Before hitting the publish button, take the time to edit and proofread your blog post. Check for spelling and grammar errors, ensure that your sentences flow smoothly, and remove any unnecessary or repetitive information. You can also ask someone else to review your post for a fresh perspective.

10. Promote Your Blog Post

Once you’ve published your blog post, don’t forget to promote it! Share it on your social media channels, send it out to your email subscribers, or reach out to influencers in your industry who might be interested in sharing it with their audience. Promoting your blog post helps increase its visibility and reach.

By following these tips, you can create an effective blog post that not only attracts readers but also provides value to them. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep writing and experimenting with different styles and formats until you find what works best for you.

5. Business Writing Genres

Business writing genres include various communication styles and formats that are important for effective professional communication. Whether you’re writing emails, memos, reports, or letters, it’s essential to know the expectations and conventions of these genres. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Practicality and Proficiency in Business Writing Genres

Business writing genres serve practical purposes in different professional situations, such as sharing information, making requests, giving instructions, or convincing stakeholders.
Being skilled in business writing genres improves your credibility and professionalism, allowing you to effectively convey your ideas and achieve your goals.
Knowing about different business writing genres helps you customize your writing style and tone to fit the specific purpose and audience.

Understanding the Expectations of Business Letters

Business letters are formal written communications used for exchanging information between organizations or individuals in a professional environment.
They usually follow a specific format and structure, including a heading, salutation, body paragraphs, closing, and signature.
The tone of business letters should be polite, concise, and professional. It’s important to use clear and simple language while maintaining a respectful tone.

Crafting an Effective Cover Letter

A cover letter is a type of business letter that accompanies a resume or job application.
It introduces you to potential employers and highlights your qualifications and suitability for a specific position.
A well-written cover letter should be customized for each job application, showcasing your skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for the role.
It’s crucial to address the hiring manager by name if possible and clearly express your interest in the position.

In conclusion, mastering different business writing genres is essential for effective professional communication. By understanding the expectations of business letters and creating compelling cover letters, you can improve your professional image and increase your chances of success.

The Importance of Regular Exercise

Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good physical and mental health. It offers a wide range of benefits, from improving cardiovascular fitness to boosting mood and reducing stress. Whether you prefer going for a run, hitting the gym, or practicing yoga, finding an activity that you enjoy and can incorporate into your daily routine is key.

Physical Benefits of Exercise

Weight management : Regular physical activity helps control weight by burning calories and building lean muscle mass.
Improved cardiovascular health : Exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Increased energy levels : Engaging in regular physical activity can boost energy levels and combat fatigue.
Enhanced flexibility and strength : Certain types of exercise, such as stretching and weightlifting, improve flexibility and build muscle strength.
Better sleep quality : Studies have shown that regular exercise can improve sleep patterns and promote deeper, more restful sleep.

Mental Benefits of Exercise

Stress relief : Physical activity stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
Improved mood : Exercise has been linked to increased levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of happiness and well-being.
Enhanced cognitive function : Regular physical activity has been shown to improve memory, attention span, and overall cognitive abilities.
Reduced risk of depression : Engaging in exercise on a regular basis can help lower the risk of developing depression.
Boosted self-confidence : Achieving personal fitness goals can enhance self-esteem and confidence levels.

Tips for Incorporating Exercise Into Your Routine

Find activities you enjoy: Whether it’s dancing, swimming, or playing a sport, choose activities that you find fun and engaging.
Start small and gradually increase intensity: If you’re new to exercise, begin with shorter sessions and lower intensity workouts, then gradually build up as your fitness level improves.
Make it a habit: Schedule regular exercise sessions into your weekly routine and treat them as non-negotiable appointments.
Stay accountable: Find a workout buddy or join a fitness class to help stay motivated and accountable.
Mix it up: Vary your workouts to prevent boredom and target different muscle groups.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your body feels during and after exercise, and adjust accordingly to avoid injury.

Regular exercise is not only beneficial for your physical health but also plays a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being. By incorporating regular physical activity into your lifestyle, you can reap the numerous rewards it offers, both physically and mentally. So why wait? Get moving today!

In this article, we have explored the diverse world of writing genres, encompassing fiction, nonfiction, academic, creative, business, and online writing. Understanding and exploring different genres of writing is essential for both writers and readers, as it allows us to broaden our horizons, develop new skills, and appreciate the unique characteristics of each genre.

Here are some key takeaways from our exploration:

Fiction Writing Genres: From realistic fiction to science fiction and fantasy, each genre offers its own captivating elements and storytelling techniques. Delve into well-known works in these genres to experience the power of imagination.
Nonfiction Writing Genres: Biography, autobiography, and essays provide us with glimpses into real-life experiences and knowledge. These genres contribute to our understanding of various subjects and help us connect with diverse perspectives.
Academic Writing Genres: Abstracts, annotated bibliographies, and argument essays play crucial roles in scholarly communication. Understanding the purpose and structure of these genres is vital for academic success.
Creative Writing Genres: Creative non-fiction allows writers to explore personal experiences through storytelling techniques. Poetry dives into the depths of emotions and creates vivid imagery that touches the soul.
Business Writing Genres: Mastering the art of crafting effective business letters and cover letters is essential for professional success. Business writing requires clarity, conciseness, and professionalism.
Online Writing Genres: Navigating the digital landscape opens up opportunities for blog writing. Whether it’s personal or academic blogging, finding the right balance between creativity and structure is key.

By exploring different genres of writing, we can enhance our versatility as writers and grow both personally and professionally. So don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and discover new genres that ignite your passion for words. Happy writing!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the definition of literary genres and genres of writing.

Literary genres refer to different categories of literature, each with its own distinct style, form, and content. Genres of writing are specific classifications that writers use to categorize their work based on similarities in theme, style, or subject matter.

Why is it important to understand and explore different writing genres?

Understanding and exploring different writing genres allows writers to expand their creativity, develop new skills, and reach a wider audience. It also provides readers with diverse options for exploring various literary themes and styles.

What are some popular science fiction novels and writers?

Some popular science fiction novels and writers include ‘Dune’ by Frank Herbert, ‘Neuromancer’ by William Gibson, ‘The Left Hand of Darkness’ by Ursula K. Le Guin, and ‘Ender’s Game’ by Orson Scott Card.

What is the significance of different nonfiction genres in literature and research?

Different nonfiction genres play a crucial role in providing factual information, documenting real-life events, sharing personal experiences, and presenting research findings. They contribute to the diversity and depth of literary works.

What are the purpose and structure guidelines for academic writing genres such as abstracts, annotated bibliographies, and argument essays?

The purpose of academic writing genres like abstracts is to provide a concise summary of a research paper’s contents. Annotated bibliographies aim to evaluate and summarize sources used in a research project. Argument essays present a clear position on a specific topic supported by evidence and analysis.

How can writers effectively craft business letters and cover letters?

Writers can effectively craft business letters by using a professional tone, addressing the recipient formally, clearly stating the purpose of the letter, and proofreading for accuracy. Cover letters should be tailored to the job position, showcase the candidate’s qualifications, and express enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Written by Glen Marks

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The four main types of essay | Quick guide with examples

The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Guide with Examples

Published on September 4, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay is a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. There are many different types of essay, but they are often defined in four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive essays.

Argumentative and expository essays are focused on conveying information and making clear points, while narrative and descriptive essays are about exercising creativity and writing in an interesting way. At university level, argumentative essays are the most common type.

Essay type	Skills tested	Example prompt
		Has the rise of the internet had a positive or negative impact on education?
		Explain how the invention of the printing press changed European society in the 15th century.
		Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself.
		Describe an object that has sentimental value for you.

In high school and college, you will also often have to write textual analysis essays, which test your skills in close reading and interpretation.

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Argumentative essays, expository essays, narrative essays, descriptive essays, textual analysis essays, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about types of essays.

An argumentative essay presents an extended, evidence-based argument. It requires a strong thesis statement —a clearly defined stance on your topic. Your aim is to convince the reader of your thesis using evidence (such as quotations ) and analysis.

Argumentative essays test your ability to research and present your own position on a topic. This is the most common type of essay at college level—most papers you write will involve some kind of argumentation.

The essay is divided into an introduction, body, and conclusion:

The introduction provides your topic and thesis statement
The body presents your evidence and arguments
The conclusion summarizes your argument and emphasizes its importance

The example below is a paragraph from the body of an argumentative essay about the effects of the internet on education. Mouse over it to learn more.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a topic. It doesn’t require an original argument, just a balanced and well-organized view of the topic.

Expository essays test your familiarity with a topic and your ability to organize and convey information. They are commonly assigned at high school or in exam questions at college level.

The introduction of an expository essay states your topic and provides some general background, the body presents the details, and the conclusion summarizes the information presented.

A typical body paragraph from an expository essay about the invention of the printing press is shown below. Mouse over it to learn more.

The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.

A narrative essay is one that tells a story. This is usually a story about a personal experience you had, but it may also be an imaginative exploration of something you have not experienced.

Narrative essays test your ability to build up a narrative in an engaging, well-structured way. They are much more personal and creative than other kinds of academic writing . Writing a personal statement for an application requires the same skills as a narrative essay.

A narrative essay isn’t strictly divided into introduction, body, and conclusion, but it should still begin by setting up the narrative and finish by expressing the point of the story—what you learned from your experience, or why it made an impression on you.

Mouse over the example below, a short narrative essay responding to the prompt “Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself,” to explore its structure.

Since elementary school, I have always favored subjects like science and math over the humanities. My instinct was always to think of these subjects as more solid and serious than classes like English. If there was no right answer, I thought, why bother? But recently I had an experience that taught me my academic interests are more flexible than I had thought: I took my first philosophy class.

Before I entered the classroom, I was skeptical. I waited outside with the other students and wondered what exactly philosophy would involve—I really had no idea. I imagined something pretty abstract: long, stilted conversations pondering the meaning of life. But what I got was something quite different.

A young man in jeans, Mr. Jones—“but you can call me Rob”—was far from the white-haired, buttoned-up old man I had half-expected. And rather than pulling us into pedantic arguments about obscure philosophical points, Rob engaged us on our level. To talk free will, we looked at our own choices. To talk ethics, we looked at dilemmas we had faced ourselves. By the end of class, I’d discovered that questions with no right answer can turn out to be the most interesting ones.

The experience has taught me to look at things a little more “philosophically”—and not just because it was a philosophy class! I learned that if I let go of my preconceptions, I can actually get a lot out of subjects I was previously dismissive of. The class taught me—in more ways than one—to look at things with an open mind.

A descriptive essay provides a detailed sensory description of something. Like narrative essays, they allow you to be more creative than most academic writing, but they are more tightly focused than narrative essays. You might describe a specific place or object, rather than telling a whole story.

Descriptive essays test your ability to use language creatively, making striking word choices to convey a memorable picture of what you’re describing.

A descriptive essay can be quite loosely structured, though it should usually begin by introducing the object of your description and end by drawing an overall picture of it. The important thing is to use careful word choices and figurative language to create an original description of your object.

Mouse over the example below, a response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” to learn more about descriptive essays.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

Though every essay type tests your writing skills, some essays also test your ability to read carefully and critically. In a textual analysis essay, you don’t just present information on a topic, but closely analyze a text to explain how it achieves certain effects.

Rhetorical analysis

A rhetorical analysis looks at a persuasive text (e.g. a speech, an essay, a political cartoon) in terms of the rhetorical devices it uses, and evaluates their effectiveness.

The goal is not to state whether you agree with the author’s argument but to look at how they have constructed it.

The introduction of a rhetorical analysis presents the text, some background information, and your thesis statement; the body comprises the analysis itself; and the conclusion wraps up your analysis of the text, emphasizing its relevance to broader concerns.

The example below is from a rhetorical analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech . Mouse over it to learn more.

King’s speech is infused with prophetic language throughout. Even before the famous “dream” part of the speech, King’s language consistently strikes a prophetic tone. He refers to the Lincoln Memorial as a “hallowed spot” and speaks of rising “from the dark and desolate valley of segregation” to “make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” The assumption of this prophetic voice constitutes the text’s strongest ethical appeal; after linking himself with political figures like Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, King’s ethos adopts a distinctly religious tone, recalling Biblical prophets and preachers of change from across history. This adds significant force to his words; standing before an audience of hundreds of thousands, he states not just what the future should be, but what it will be: “The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.” This warning is almost apocalyptic in tone, though it concludes with the positive image of the “bright day of justice.” The power of King’s rhetoric thus stems not only from the pathos of his vision of a brighter future, but from the ethos of the prophetic voice he adopts in expressing this vision.

Literary analysis

A literary analysis essay presents a close reading of a work of literature—e.g. a poem or novel—to explore the choices made by the author and how they help to convey the text’s theme. It is not simply a book report or a review, but an in-depth interpretation of the text.

Literary analysis looks at things like setting, characters, themes, and figurative language. The goal is to closely analyze what the author conveys and how.

The introduction of a literary analysis essay presents the text and background, and provides your thesis statement; the body consists of close readings of the text with quotations and analysis in support of your argument; and the conclusion emphasizes what your approach tells us about the text.

Mouse over the example below, the introduction to a literary analysis essay on Frankenstein , to learn more.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, protagonist Victor Frankenstein is a stable representation of the callous ambition of modern science throughout the novel. This essay, however, argues that far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to portray Frankenstein in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as. This essay begins by exploring the positive portrayal of Frankenstein in the first volume, then moves on to the creature’s perception of him, and finally discusses the third volume’s narrative shift toward viewing Frankenstein as the creature views him.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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At high school and in composition classes at university, you’ll often be told to write a specific type of essay , but you might also just be given prompts.

Look for keywords in these prompts that suggest a certain approach: The word “explain” suggests you should write an expository essay , while the word “describe” implies a descriptive essay . An argumentative essay might be prompted with the word “assess” or “argue.”

The vast majority of essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Almost all academic writing involves building up an argument, though other types of essay might be assigned in composition classes.

Essays can present arguments about all kinds of different topics. For example:

In a literary analysis essay, you might make an argument for a specific interpretation of a text
In a history essay, you might present an argument for the importance of a particular event
In a politics essay, you might argue for the validity of a certain political theory

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

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18 Text Types (with Examples) – Writing Styles Explained

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Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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Texts types, also known as genres or text forms, refer to categories of texts with different purposes. Depending on the purpose, each type of text will have have a different convention of style and structure.

It is essential to understand text types and their conventions because:

Interpretation: It helps us understand the text’s intentions, trustworthiness, and bias
Text Creation: It helps us to create texts that are most effective, depending upon the purpose

Below is a list of the most common text types and their key conventions, style, structure, and purpose.

Text Types Examples

1. narrative.

Purpose: A narrative text aims to tell a story to the reader. It isn’t always just about telling a story for entertainment, though. The purpose of narrative text also lies in its capacity to engage the reader’s imagination, impart a moral lesson, or just simply pass on a tale through generations. For example, narrative stories are used in folklore and folktales to pass-on cultural values and stories.

Style: The style of a narrative text is distinctive. It employs a chronological sequencing of events. Coherent, right-branching sentences, varying in length, create rhythm and draw the reader into the unfolding story. Active voice is favored to maintain directness and immediacy, bringing scenes alive.

Structure: Beginning with an orientation, it introduces characters, setting, and time. Short initial sentences establish the context. The complication, the next part, presents problems or conflicts. A series of sentences, varying in length and complexity, takes the reader through ups and downs. Ultimately, the story reaches a resolution, where the achievement or solution is laid out.

2. Descriptive

Purpose: A descriptive text is designed to describe something in a detailed manner. The writer attempts to paint a vivid image in the reader’s mind, often by intricately describing an object, person, place, experience, or situation.

Style: Adjectives play a significant role in a descriptive text. They enrich the text, adding depth to the description. Similes, metaphors, and other figurative language might also be used for more creative descriptions. The sentences can be diverse, ranging from concise statement of facts to long, detailed depictions .

Structure: A descriptive text often starts with a short, general overview of what is being described. Then, it delves into details, exploring appearance, characteristics, functions, and other aspects. It closes with a brief summary or a final remark on the described subject.

3. Expository

Purpose: The main goal of an expository text is to inform or explain. It aims to provide the reader with comprehensive information about a specific topic. This type of text gives out facts and provides deep insights, explaining complex concepts or procedures in a manner that the reader can understand.

Style: The style of an expository text is systematic and straightforward. It has an emphasis on clarity. It avoids ambiguity and confusion.

Structure: Beginning with an introduction that briefly outlines the topic, an expository text then offers a well-structured exploration of distinct aspects of the topic. Each paragraph introduces a different point related to the topic. The conclusion summarizes the main points and offers final insights.

Read More: Expository vs Argumentative Essay Writing

4. Argumentative / Persuasive

Purpose: An argumentative or persuasive text is structured to persuade the readers by presenting a point of view. It defends a position regarding an issue or topic, using reasoned arguments, facts, statistics, and real-life examples to convince readers and lure them into adopting this point of view.

Style: These texts should be precise, logical, and grounded in evidence. The use of rhetorical devices like ethos, logos, and pathos can help persuade and appeal to the reader’s sense of ethics, logic, or emotions.

Structure: Key here is to map out a clear and structured argument, often presenting the most compelling points at the beginning and end of the piece. Consider using an essay plan. Your piece may start with a clear statement of the thesis or position. Then, provide supporting evidence and arguments, section by section. Each paragraph can offer a different reason or piece of evidence supporting the thesis. A conclusion is then needed to sum up the argument, restate the thesis, and call the reader to action.

5. Instructional

Purpose: An instructional text serves to provide instructions or directions on how to do something. It aims to guide the reader through a sequence of steps to achieve a certain goal or complete a task efficiently.

Style: Unlike persuasive texts, instructional texts should not try to convince anyone of anything. Your job is to strictly provide facts. The language is direct, to-the-point, and unambiguous.

Structure: Instructional texts usually start with an overview of the task or goal, and possibly, what the end result should look like. Following that, a list of materials or requirements would come next. After this, a step-by-step guide detailing how to accomplish the task is written.

6. Procedural

Purpose: Procedural texts are designed to guide the reader through a sequence of actions or steps necessary to accomplish a specific task. These tasks might be related to cooking, science experiments, emergency procedures, or machinery operation, among others.

Style: Procedural texts are characterized by precise and unambiguous language. It is critical that the wording is exact to ensure clear communication of instructions.

Structure: Procedural texts should be written with the same goal in mind as instructional ones: begin with an overview of the task, followed by any necessary materials or preparation steps. Next, a detailed, step-by-step procedure is included. It often concludes with any necessary follow-up instructions or warnings.

Purpose: The purpose of a recount text is to retell past events, usually in chronological order. It serves to provide a detailed account of an event, experience, or historical occurrence.

Style: A recount is usually descriptive and personal, involving a chronological presentation of events, with expressive language to convey emotions or impressions that the writer felt during the events.

Structure: A typical recount text starts with the introduction, setting the scene, and often specifying the time, place, and participants involved. The series of events then unrolls in the order they occurred. Finally, it concludes with a personal comment, reflection, or evaluation of the event.

Purpose: Report texts are written to present information about a subject. The subject could range from real-world entities like animals, humans, or natural phenomena to abstract concepts like principles, theories, or ideas.

Style: Reports are communicated objectively without the use of personal pronouns or subjective language. They contain facts, statistics, and specific information related to the subject, presented in a clear, systematic manner.

Structure: A report usually begins with an introduction, defining the topic and offering a brief overview. A series of sections or subheadings then ‘chunk’ the content to make it easy to navigate, each covering different aspects of the topic. A conclusion or summary often ends the report.

9. Discussion

Purpose: A discussion text is intended to present multiple perspectives on a specific issue, allowing the reader to consider all angles before forming their own viewpoint. It aims to deepen understanding and foster a broader perspective by objectively exploring diverse opinions and arguments related to a topic.

Style: Discussion texts use neutral, unbiased language. The writer presents all sides of the argument fairly and objectively, without leaning towards supporting one over another.

Structure: The text begins with an introduction of the issue at hand. This is followed by presenting point and counterpoint for each aspect of the issue, examining arguments in favor and against it. An effective discussion text ends with a conclusion or summary that encapsulates the multiple perspectives without indicating a personal preference.

10. Response

Purpose: A response text serves to provide a personal interpretation or reaction to a piece of content, such as a book, film, article, or speech. It aims to deepen the understanding of the original content, examine its components, and express personal thoughts, feelings, and reactions to it.

Style: Response writing is subjective, reflecting the opinion and personality of the writer. Despite the writer’s personal voice being apparent, a good response should maintain an even-handed and critical approach.

Structure: Commence with an overview of the content being responded to, including its title and creator. Next, give a brief summary or description of the content. Following this, present your personal reactions, impressions, and points of critique. Lastly, conclude by summarizing your views and stating your final thoughts.

Purpose: The purpose of a poetic text is to convey emotions, experiences, concepts, and ideas using creative and imaginative language. It’s a form of verbal art that uses aesthetics and rhythmic qualities to charm and engage readers.

Style: Poetic language heavily incorporates figurative and connotative language. It frequently uses devices such as similes, metaphors, rhyme, rhythm, assonance, and alliteration to create a specific mood or emotion.

Structure: The structure of a poem can vary vastly – it may adhere to a specific form (like sonnets, haikus, or limericks) complete with rules regarding rhyme, meter, and stanza length, or it may be free verse, with no such rules.

12. Journalistic

Purpose: Journalistic texts aim to report news stories to inform readers, viewers, or listeners about events happening locally or globally. These texts provide factual information about real-world event in a balanced, fair, accurate, and comprehensive manner.

Style: Journalistic writing requires use of clear, concise, and direct language. The language is primarily factual and explanatory, striving to be impartial and unbiased.

Structure: Journalistic texts usually adopt the “inverted pyramid” structure. The most crucial information is presented first – summarizing the ‘who, what, where, when, why, and how’ of the story. Following paragraphs provide further details and context, with the least important information towards the end.

13. Transactional

Purpose: Transactional texts serve to communicate an intended message between individuals or organizations. Common examples include emails, reports, proposals, business letters and memos.

Style: The tone and style of transactional texts depend on their intended audience and purpose. Formality levels may vary – generally, they are written in clear, straightforward language.

Structure: Transactional texts usually start with a salutation or an introduction, followed by the body containing the key message or information. They end with a closing, which may include a call-to-action, a closing remark or a sign-off.

14. Exemplification

Purpose: Exemplification texts are those which use examples to make a point, stress a point, or clearly present a pattern or form. These texts aim to make abstract ideas concrete, clarify concepts, or provide evidence supporting statements or theories.

Style: The language of exemplification texts is straightforward and facts-based, leveraging detailed examples to make concepts clearer and more understandable.

Structure: They start with a thesis statement or main idea. Next, they introduce and elaborate various specific examples to exemplify and prove the thesis statement. Finally, a conclusion wraps up the discussion and reiterates how the examples support the main idea.

15. Compare and Contrast

Purpose: The purpose of a compare and contrast text is to examine the similarities and differences between two or more subjects, such as concepts, items, people, or events. It aids in understanding and scrutinizing the association between the subjects.

Style: This kind of writing is analytical and require a balanced and objective presentation of facts, making sure to avoid bias or favoritism.

Structure: Such texts generally follow one of two structures: block or alternating. In the block method, all about the first subject is described, followed by all about the second. In the alternating method, corresponding points about the first and second subjects are alternated for comparison.

Read More: Compare and Contrast Essay Examples

16. Cause and Effect

Purpose: Cause and effect text is written to identify and explain the reasons or causes for an event or behavior and the resulting effects or outcomes. It establishes a relationship between variables and events.

Style: Clarity is particularly important in cause and effect writing because it should aim to lucidly explain causal chains where one thing leads to another.

Structure: Generally, the text starts with an introduction to the event. This is followed by the ’cause’ section explaining its origins or reasons. Then comes the ‘effect’ section detailing the outcomes, consequences, or results. Lastly, a conclusion synthesizes the major points and may contain author’s opinion on the event.

17. Diary/Journal Entry

Purpose: A diary or journal entry is written to express personal thoughts, feelings, and experiences, making them a form of autobiographical writing. The objective is self-reflection, documentation of life events or ideas, and emotional exploration.

Style: Being highly personal, these texts don’t normally adhere to strict stylistic protocols. Language is informal and conversational, representing the writer’s voice.

Structure: Diary or journal entries do not follow a strict format. They often start with the date and proceed with the entries. Entries can range from brief notes to detailed narratives.

18. Critical Review

Purpose: A critical review analyses, interprets, and appraises a text or other work (like a film or play). It’s meant to provide an evaluation of the item’s merit, significance, value, or relevance, based on careful examination and evidence-based claims.

Style: Even though a critical review presents the writer’s opinion, it should be a balanced, logical, and professional examination of the work.

Structure: A traditional critical review includes an introduction summarizing the key details of the work being reviewed, the body containing the evaluation, and a conclusion summarizing the review.

Full List of Text Types and Genres

Descriptive
Argumentative / Persuasive
Instructional
Journalistic
Transactional
Exemplification
Compare and Contrast
Cause and Effect
Diary/Journal Entry
Critical Review

Understanding text types allows you to effectively communicate ideas and information to your target audience. It provides a structured framework that guides the writing process, enhancing clarity and coherence. Additionally, it aids in comprehension, helping readers navigate and understand the text in its intended way. Lastly, knowledge of text types helps improve critical reading skills, enabling readers to discern the underlying purpose and structure of various texts.

Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
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1 thought on “18 Text Types (with Examples) – Writing Styles Explained”

Dear Professor Drew,

My name is Ana de Mesquita and I am from Brazil. I have been teaching English, French and Brazilian Portuguese as a second language since 2008. I really appreciated your article about texts. It is quite helpful. Best regards,

The scope of literature

Literature is a form of human expression. But not everything expressed in words—even when organized and written down—is counted as literature. Those writings that are primarily informative—technical, scholarly, journalistic—would be excluded from the rank of literature by most, though not all, critics. Certain forms of writing, however, are universally regarded as belonging to literature as an art. Individual attempts within these forms are said to succeed if they possess something called artistic merit and to fail if they do not. The nature of artistic merit is less easy to define than to recognize. The writer need not even pursue it to attain it. On the contrary, a scientific exposition might be of great literary value and a pedestrian poem of none at all.

Zora Neale Hurston (1891-1960) portrait by Carl Van Vecht April 3, 1938. Writer, folklorist and anthropologist celebrated African American culture of the rural South.

The purest (or, at least, the most intense) literary form is the lyric poem, and after it comes elegiac, epic , dramatic, narrative, and expository verse. Most theories of literary criticism base themselves on an analysis of poetry , because the aesthetic problems of literature are there presented in their simplest and purest form. Poetry that fails as literature is not called poetry at all but verse . Many novels —certainly all the world’s great novels—are literature, but there are thousands that are not so considered. Most great dramas are considered literature (although the Chinese , possessors of one of the world’s greatest dramatic traditions, consider their plays, with few exceptions, to possess no literary merit whatsoever).

The Greeks thought of history as one of the seven arts, inspired by a goddess, the muse Clio. All of the world’s classic surveys of history can stand as noble examples of the art of literature, but most historical works and studies today are not written primarily with literary excellence in mind, though they may possess it, as it were, by accident.

The essay was once written deliberately as a piece of literature: its subject matter was of comparatively minor importance. Today most essays are written as expository, informative journalism , although there are still essayists in the great tradition who think of themselves as artists. Now, as in the past, some of the greatest essayists are critics of literature, drama , and the arts.

Some personal documents ( autobiographies , diaries , memoirs , and letters ) rank among the world’s greatest literature. Some examples of this biographical literature were written with posterity in mind, others with no thought of their being read by anyone but the writer. Some are in a highly polished literary style; others, couched in a privately evolved language, win their standing as literature because of their cogency, insight, depth, and scope.

Many works of philosophy are classed as literature. The Dialogues of Plato (4th century bc ) are written with great narrative skill and in the finest prose; the Meditations of the 2nd-century Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius are a collection of apparently random thoughts, and the Greek in which they are written is eccentric . Yet both are classed as literature, while the speculations of other philosophers, ancient and modern, are not. Certain scientific works endure as literature long after their scientific content has become outdated. This is particularly true of books of natural history, where the element of personal observation is of special importance. An excellent example is Gilbert White’s Natural History and Antiquities of Selbourne (1789).

Oratory , the art of persuasion, was long considered a great literary art. The oratory of Native Americans, for instance, is famous, while in Classical Greece, Polymnia was the muse sacred to poetry and oratory. Rome’s great orator Cicero was to have a decisive influence on the development of English prose style. Abraham Lincoln ’s Gettysburg Address is known to every American schoolchild. Today, however, oratory is more usually thought of as a craft than as an art. Most critics would not admit advertising copywriting, purely commercial fiction , or cinema and television scripts as accepted forms of literary expression, although others would hotly dispute their exclusion. The test in individual cases would seem to be one of enduring satisfaction and, of course, truth. Indeed, it becomes more and more difficult to categorize literature, for in modern civilization words are everywhere. Humans are subject to a continuous flood of communication . Most of it is fugitive, but here and there—in high-level journalism, in television, in the cinema, in commercial fiction, in westerns and detective stories, and in plain, expository prose—some writing, almost by accident, achieves an aesthetic satisfaction, a depth and relevance that entitle it to stand with other examples of the art of literature.

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Academic Writing Genres & Common Assignments //

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Academic writing is characterized by its emphasis on facts and observations, its presence within a specified body of knowledge, and its reference to sources (prior learning) by which the reader can evaluate the trustworthiness of the academic book or article.

To access a recording of the Faculty Panel on Academic Learning and Writing presented in 2021, enroll in the Center for Writing and Academic Success' Canvas shell . Once you have enrolled in the course, you may then access the page “ Faculty Panel on Academic Writing ."

Within the field of writing, there are four main genres: descriptive, persuasive, expository, and narrative. When generating a piece of academic writing, the author may utilize skills from any of the four genres, and within each of these categories, specific types of academic assignments may be presented. This page provides an overview of each genre of writing as well as presents the types of academic papers that utilize that genre of writing.

Regardless of the type of paper, all papers should follow the style and format as presented in the APA Manual (2020).

Persuasive and Expository Writing

Persuasive and expository writing both utilize research in the writing process. As such, persuasive and expository writing assignments are common at Saybrook.

Persuasive Writing

Also commonly referred to as argumentative writing, persuasive writing occurs when the author takes a stand on a principle or controversial issue and attempts to persuade the reader to adopt a similar mindset. When using persuasive writing, the author will appeal to reason, emotion, or character (ethics) to build their argument.

Use in Academic Writing

Within the academic context, the most common persuasive technique for authors to use is to appeal to reason and logic. Persuasive writing that appeals to logic involves incorporating critical thinking and often the use of outside sources for evidence.

Common Persuasive Writing Assignments

Research-based papers.

A research-based paper requires that the writer conducts research using methods such as library searches prior to authoring the work. Within the paper, the author must identify and cite the literature to support their original idea, position, or argument. Research-based papers usually center around an argument or idea, known as the thesis, that is developed throughout the body of the paper. The thesis of the paper is supported by the evidence drawn from the research. In order to present an effective position or argument, the author must utilize clear writing, organization, and logic. Do not confuse this type of paper with a literature review, described in a later section.

Webpage: Genre and the Research Paper (Purdue OWL, n.d.)
Webpage: How to Write a Research Paper (Scribbr, n.d.)

Critical Review

Usually focused on a writing by someone else, this describes and assesses a theoretical concept, article, or research report in a critical and analytical way. In a critical review, the author either agrees or disagrees with the original work that is being critiqued. In either circumstance, the author is persuading the reader toward a particular opinion about the work that is being examined. Examples include evaluations of research articles, book reviews, and critiques of published literature reviews and dissertations.

Example: Book Review: Remodeling GT once again (Nathaniel, 2014)
Video: Rhetoric: Essentials of Argument (OWL Purdue, n.d.)

Additional Resources for Persuasive Writing

Please refer to the links below for details on organization of persuasive writing pieces:

Webpage: Argumentative Essays (Purdue OWL, n.d.)
Webpage: How to Write an Argumentative Essay (Caulfield, 2021)

Webpage: Tips on How to Write an Argumentative Essay (Fleming, 2020)
Webpage: How to Write a Persuasive Essay (Lombardi, 2018)
Webpage: Preparing an Argument Essay: Exploring Both Sides of an Issue (Nordquist, 2019)

Expository Writing

Expository papers present information objectively and are used to inform, compare and contrast, or show cause and effect. Information presented in expository writing should be clear and concise.

Use in Academic Writing

This is the most common type of writing at the graduate level within many of the fields offered at Saybrook. Since the purpose of expository writing is to inform the reader, it is used hea v ily within academic contexts.

Common Expository Writing Assignments

literature review .

This is a comprehensive report on the existing literature available regarding a topic or question. A literature review describes, summarizes, evaluates, and synthesizes scholarly articles, books, research reports, dissertations, conference proceedings, and other sources of information relevant to a specific question or topic. The writer critically analyzes the method, results, discussion, and/or conclusions from multiple research articles. A good literature review goes beyond simply reporting and summarizing related literature: it evaluates, organizes, and synthesizes what others have researched and written on the topic. Evaluating begins with identifying and reporting crucial elements in individual studies. It is equally important to organize the individual studies into categories or themes found in the literature, noting how strong or lacking the evidence appears. The final quality of synthesis allows the literature review author to repackage what is known and add their insights to the collective knowledge. Thus, a good literature review will not only report on studies and collective knowledge, but also compare different perspectives, identify inconsistencies and offer possible explanations, and comment on how knowledge has evolved over time.

Précis

A précis is a recapitulation of the original work at 25% – 33% of the original size. It contains no interpretation or critique elements and should not include the voice of the précis writer. It should be a substitute for the original work, like an executive summary. The purpose is to report the core essence of the work that is clear and concise. When used to summarize a research article, the précis should include the topic or main thesis, the purpose of the research, what was studied, what methods were applied, the findings or results, and a conclusion or discussion.

Webpage: How to Write a Rhetorical Précis Your Professor Will Never Forget (Hanski, 2017)
Webpage: Précis Writing (Hit Bulls Eye, n.d.)

Original Empirical Research Report

Original empirical research reports provide an original qualitative, quantitative, or mixed method research project in which the student designed the study, conducted the fieldwork and data collection, analyzed the data, and created the report. Examples for graduate coursework include the pilot study report, a thesis, and a dissertation. Published original research articles are also empirical research reports. Examples are:

Webpage: Short-term Meditation Training Improves Attention and Self-Regulation (Tang et al., 2007)
DOI link: Patients' views of CAM as spiritual practice (Ulrich et al., 2011) (also available in the Saybrook Library)

Additional Resources for Expository Writing

Below are links describing more about expository writing.

Webpage: Expository Essays (Purdue OWL, n.d.)
Webpage: How to Write an Expository Essay (Caulfield, 2020)
Webpage: What is Expository Writing? (Nordquist, 2019)
Webpage: How to Write an Expository Essay (Scribendi, n.d.)

Persuasive vs. Expository Writing

Persuasive and expository writing may share similar traits. For example, research plays a critical role in both genres. However, the purpose is different. Table 1 provides a description of traits of each genre of writing.

Traits of Persuasive and Expository Writing


Thesis tells the author's opinion on the topic.	Thesis informs the audience on the topic of the paper.
Attempts to convince the reader that a particular standpoint is valid (or the best).	Provides the reader with information, an explanation of a concept, or a definition.
Opinion-based; bias present.	Research-based; bias absent.
Facts only used to support an opinion. Light to moderate use of facts, data, and statistics.	Facts used to move the discussion forward. Heavy use of facts, data, and statistics.
Uses examples as a method to persuade the reader.	Uses examples to aid the reader in understanding the information being presented.
Emotive tone is acceptable (although overly emotional language lessens the strength of the argument and should be used strategically).	Neutral tone (no emotive displays).
Counterarguments are likely to be addressed.	Counterarguments are unlikely to be addressed.
Goal is to convince the audience.	Goal is to inform or educate the audience.
Author presents themselves as a friend or trusted mentor.	Author presents themselves as an authority on the topic.

Descriptive and Narrative Writing

In academic writing, descriptive and narrative genres are less common than persuasive and expository genres. However, the skills used in these genres may still be utilized in certain approaches or particular assignments.

DESCRIPTIVE WRITING

Descriptive writing uses vivid language to describe a person, place, or event so that the reader can picture the topic clearly in their mind.

Use in Academic Writing

Some qualitative research methods call for data collection through such rich descriptions (e.g., phenomenological protocols, narrative re-storying). Although it is unlikely for a student at Saybrook to receive an essay prompt requiring a descriptive approach, the skill is useful for describing personal observations. Note that within academic writing, descriptive writing should remain neutral and use clear and concise wording.

Additional Resources for Descriptive Writing

Webpage: Purdue OWL: Descriptive Essays (Purdue OWL, n.d.)
Webpage: How to Write a Descriptive Essay (Caulfield, 2021)
Webpage: 5 Examples of How to Write a Good Descriptive Paragraph (Nordquist, 2020)
Webpage: Description in Rhetoric and Composition ( Nordquist , 2019)
Webpage: Writing a Descriptive Essay (Fleming, 2020)
Webpage: Structure of a Descriptive Essay (Fleming, 2019)

NARRATIVE WRITING

Narrative writing tells the reader about a particular event(s) that took place. Common works of narrative writing include personal essays (such as those found in a blog post), practicum logs, and case reports.

Use in Academic Writing

This form of essay writing is less common in graduate level writing within the fields offered at Saybrook University. However, a student may still encounter essay prompts that suggest a narrative approach. For example, a professor may ask you to analyze a theory or concept in light of a personal experience.

Common Narrative Writing Assignments

Reflection paper.

A reflection paper relies on the writer's anecdotal experiences and personal reflections to convey an idea, an experience, or a concept. Although not dependent on externally derived evidence, such as scholarly literature, reflection papers still require clarity, logical organization, and basic rhetorical skills for effective execution.

Additional Resources for Narrative Writing

For more information on narrative writing, consult the hyperlinks provided below.

Webpage: Narrative Writing (Purdue OWL, n.d.)
Webpage: How to Write a Narrative Essay (Caulfield, 2020)
Webpage: Narrative Essay Examples and Key Elements (Your Dictionary, n.d.)
Webpage: How to Write a Narrative Essay or Speech (Nordquist, 2020)
Webpage: Compose a Narrative Essay or Personal statement (Nordquist, 2019)

DESCRIPTIVE VS. NARRATIVE WRITING

Descriptive and narrative writing may be easily confused because both allow the writer to express themselves using more creative and personal methods. While both use similar writing skills, there are some distinct differences. Table 2 provides a description of traits of each genre of writing.

Traits of Descriptive and Narrative Writing

Traits of Descriptive Writing	Traits of Narrative Writing
Describes scenes, persons, things, or feelings.	Reflects on personal experience.
Uses sensory details to paint a picture (touch, smell, etc.).	Tells a story.
Samples: novels, plays, biographies, historical narratives.	Samples: written works about nature, travel, a memory, oneself, others, etc.

Other Common Writing Assignments

This section provides resources for other common assignments provided within courses at Saybrook University.

Synthesis Paper

Annotated bibliographies.

Webpage: Annotated Bibliographies (UNC Chapel Hill, n.d.)

Essay On Literary Genres

Literary Genres, the definition is in the name. A type of writing that runs on nothing but one’s imaginations and in some cases worst fears. It is created to give the readers a type of escape from the real world, and keeps them up through through the night flipping pages until they are finally finished the novel . Within literary genres comes a couple fan favourites, the Horror Genre, and the Romance Genre. The two tend to alternate reality in a way that creates a fantasy, or nightmare for us living in the novels of each genre. To begin, Horror fiction can keep the reader on the edge of their seat, contemplating what is going to happen next. Through the eyes of the reader, suspense can often lead them to indulging themselves into the novel …show more content…

The romance genre consists of more fantastical, and more lovey dovey topics. Unlike the horror genre which mainly focuses on death and harm to a individual. Unlike the horror genre, the romance genre has less supernatural elements and tends to act more as a prop for many other types of genres. A main aspect of the romance genre is the love between two individuals. This love is often the main point of the story, and is the main theme of prominence throughout the story. By creating a love story between two unlikely individuals, the readers are able to recreate many of the seems, but with them as the main protagonist. Being able to feel what the protagonist is feeling as the story progresses, is a main component in the romance genre. With the romance genre the readers are able to imagine the characters in real life, and view their traits first hand. Suspense is then created through the character ’s actions, which can create new unexpected actions. The romance genre can be broken up into several types of categories including; Poetry and Novels. As the romance genre was being developed around the renaissance era, poems were used as the main source for the romantic genre. Writings in the genre are often light, and airy, and tend to always put the reader, in an overall happy, and eccentric

How Does W. F Harvey Create Suspense

For two centuries now, horror and suspense stories have become one of the most intriguing types of story genres. These genres have captured the attention of countless of readers and nowadays watchers. According to Percy D’Aco, horror stories are created to show discomfort and fear reflecting on one’s greatest fears. In the process of writing horror stories, numerous authors create suspense to make people continue reading and stay hooked on the story. A great example of the use of suspense would be the horror story “August Heat,” written by W.F Harvey.

George Strait: A Genre Analysis

According to The Bedford Book of Genres “A genre is a composition’s kind, category, or sort. Genres give us a way to categorize or describe types of compositions”. (Braziller and Kleinfeld) One genre of music is country. There are two things we need to know about genres; “First, genres change according to the ways people use them” and “Second, genres are flexible”.

Rhetorical Analysis Of Cinderella By Grimm Brothers

Let's say last night you dreamed you were in a fairytale. How would you describe it? Were there magical fairies, castles, golden objects, or talking animals? Did you slay a dragon, find true love, or save a princess? Common details that recur within a genre such as these are labeled genre Conventions, which can be used to enhance a text’s appeal or advance a moral.

Literary Elements In Avi's Wolf Rider

Many possible topics novels often include are the author's style, purpose, the structure, character development, voice, symbols, and more. Authors use a variety literal elements to create, and tell a well constructed

Alvin York Character Analysis

While both Alvin York and Chris Kyle display traits specific to romance, it is important to clarify the definition of the genre. Romance, as discussed in the PowerPoint, is defined by being relatively unrealistic, not adhering to the portrayal of daily life, as well as not confining to the rules of realism. This type of romance has nothing to do with a love story, contradictory to what society believes. In both films, however, the main characters do find love interests. The characters of a romance also feature abilities that normal, everyday people would not possess.

Billy Collins Commencement At Choate-Rosemary Hall

A genre is how a piece of writing is classified, this is can vary depending on who the reader is. A few examples of different types of genres include: persuasive, memoirs, comics, or blogs. A genre can be determined by many different elements. These elements are, style, design, audience, purpose, sources, and modes and medias. Style and design are similar when analyzing a piece.

As I Lay Dying Literary Analysis

The genre of fiction is the classification for any story involving facts, events, and characters that are not real. Fiction novels are heavily depended on their characters and setting whereas other genres may depend more on facts, relationships or atmosphere. It is what happens to the characters and their relation to their setting that tailors a good fiction story as the authors have to fabricate other worlds that more often than not are very different from our reality. William Faulkner heavily depends on his character development for the plot advancement. This is made evident in “As I Lay Dying”.

Narrative Conventions In The Searchers

The word genre comes from the French word for 'class ', (Chandler, 1997). Film genre refers to a specific style or subject matter. A movie may have several different components that may make up a specific genre. Genres makes it easier for the audience, as the categorization of genres lets the audience pick what sort of movie they would like to watch. Film genres give the audience information into the type movie it may be, this in turn helps them to decide whether the movie is suitable for them or not.

Udolpho Frankenstein Analysis

Have you ever read a story that causes chills or your emotionally invested in a character. The story’s Frankenstein by Mary Shelley and The mysteries of udolpho by Ann Radcliffe are literature that are centered in fear. These story’s cause suspense or has ghost or some type of monster. A gothic is a great example of fear in literature. The settings, characters, and story line has a way of making the reader invested by hooking to their emotions.

The Tell Tale Heart Suspense Essay

The six kinds of horror genre elements are suspense, foreshadowing, setting, source of horror and type of horror. For instance, let’s look over Edgar Allan Poe’s The Tell-Tale Heart and see how he uses an internal source of horror and suspense in his writing.

Genre Conventions In 'The Wizard Of Oz'

Genre theory is a break down of different types of films. It is a recipe that is put together to make it a whole. When you break down the type or category of your film, that will become a formula for your character types/conventions, settings, and visual imagery, which is called iconography (Goodykoontz & Jacobs, 2014). When this is used, it will help the viewers to understand the prediction of the movie they are watching. A lot of genres falls alongside with sub-genres, which have a more defined formula.

Ida B. Wells: A Non-Literary Analysis

When learning how to read and write, the first style that is usually introduced is the form of fictional stories. These stories tend to enhance the imagination as they peak the interests of young minds through grand adventures within mystical lands. As one continues there is an almost instantaneous switch, in which the reader goes from enjoying the enticing fictional world to suddenly being forced into the land of non-fiction. Non-fiction is a prose writing that is factual based, including real events, and real people, such as a bibliography or history. With this definition, it tends to not be clear as to how the story is told, whether it incorporates multiple perspectives or opinions.

Fear In H. P. Lovecraft's The Colour Out Of Space

Fear plays a big part in everyone’s lives. While not everyone will admit it, everyone is scared of something. There is a lot that isn’t known about the world and everything in it. For some this is a tool that can be used to develop horror in literature as well as many other things. “The oldest and strongest emotion of mankind is fear, and the oldest and strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown.

The Murders In The Rue Morgue And The Purloined Letter

Having come from the Latin word “genus”, meaning “type”, “genre” refers to style, when things, usually music or literary works, are grouped in collections of similar style. The function of genres in regards to literature is that “For readers, genres are sets of conventions and expectations: knowing whether we are reading a detective story or a romance… we are on the lookout for different things and make assumptions about what will be significant.” (Literary Theory: A Very Short Introduction) In the genre of detection fiction, readers would anticipate a murder in a seemingly locked room, a suspect being wrongly accused of the crime and a brilliant, intelligent protagonist detective with a less intelligent partner.

The Supernatural In Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

The supernatural is one of the elements of Romanticism. It may not be one of the more major ones such as nature or emotions, but it is a relevant one in Shelley 's novel, Frankenstein. It is very difficult to discuss only one of the traces of the romantic movement in a novel as they are all interconnected. The supernatural, for example, is very hard to distinguish from nature as an element in some scenes in the novel as there is a very thin line differentiating all the elements from one another. Furthermore, supernature can also be related to Gothic literature, which makes it hard to identify the exact genre of the novel.

More about Essay On Literary Genres

Essays on Literary Genres

For my first task, I chose William Shakespeare's how do I compare thee to a summers day. My initial reaction to the poem is one that I felt connected to the poem; the comparison of love to seasons and how they are so alike in human nature and...

Document A: John Betjeman, in Architectural Review, 1933. Document B: Edward Thomas, from Poems, 1917. Adlestrop. Introduction In 1914, there was a demolition of a monumental part of railway infrastructure in London. Such act marked a new era of practice and research. Various buildings were demolished along the North London railway station. For...

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“Parks and Recreation” is a television sitcom that revolves around political satire in the United States. The show aired between 2009 and 2015and was made by Michael Schur and Grag Daniels (Moyer). It is centered on star Leslie Knolpe with the plot set in the fictional town located in Indiana....

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Paul Celan and Martin Heidegger are well-known writers within the literary circles of the 19th century. Their works were taken in high regards owing to their skills and uniqueness in styles of writing and beliefs. It is worth noting that Celan had much admiration for Heidegger due to his ideas...

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What we have to lose What we have to lose, a short story written by Theodroe Dalrymple conveys the brutalism expressed by the modern intellectuals in the western countries. The essay that was written shortly after September, 11th, the author mentions how the intellectuals are mercilessly destroying civilization and refuses to...

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In what sense could we say / not say that (a) Euripides' "Bacchae" and (b) Williams' "Cat" stand in the Aristotelian tradition of drama? Do you think Aristotle's theory is still relevant today? The Aristotelian tradition of drama Aristotle presents one of the earliest philosophical dissertations on literary theory in his...

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Aristotle’s poetic theory was the first philosophical dissertation in the West to center on literary theory, and it is the earliest extant exertion of dramatic theory. In this theory, Aristotle describes poetry, which in Greek means “making” to explain the domain and context of literary work categories as verse drama;...

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Religious and Cultural Backgrounds In religious and cultural backgrounds, fifty years after the crucifixion of Jesus, four evangelists explored Jesus's teachings through historical events. In this regard, the evangelists examined the importance of Jesus's life, his death, and resurrection at large. Eyewitnesses such as Mathew, Peter, and John played a significant...

1. Why are pagan souls dammed in limbo? Describe also the scene with the philosophers. Limbo exist in the first circle of Dante s Hell and it preserved to souls who did not get saved due to natural circumstances. The pagans are dammed in limbo since they did not sin nor...

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Verlyn Klinkeborg article “Our Vanishing Night” was published by National Geographic in 2008 that shed light on the excessive use of artificial lighting. Verlyn indicate that artificial lighting is another type of pollution that directly affects ecosystems and humans. Verlyn set the audience of the article as the educated citizens...

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Thesis: Kant s book on observation of the sublime and the beautiful contains numerous themes which can be directly compared to Mary Shelley s Frankenstein. Themes in the Kant s What is enlightenment are also deeply in comparison to how Mary Shelley s Frankenstein theme were or not...

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What Are the Different Genres of Literature? A Guide to 14 Literary
A Guide to 14 Literary Genres. Fiction refers to a story that comes from a writer's imagination, as opposed to one based strictly on fact or a true story. In the literary world, a work of fiction can refer to a short story, novella, and novel, which is the longest form of literary prose. Every work of fiction falls into a sub-genre, each with ...
Literary Genres: Definition and Examples of the 4 Essential Genres and
LGBTQ+. LGBTQ+ novels are those that feature characters who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or otherwise non-heterosexual. Literary Fiction. Literary fiction novels or stories have a high degree of artistic merit, a unique or experimental style of writing, and often deal with serious themes.
How to Write a Literary Analysis Essay
Table of contents. Step 1: Reading the text and identifying literary devices. Step 2: Coming up with a thesis. Step 3: Writing a title and introduction. Step 4: Writing the body of the essay. Step 5: Writing a conclusion. Other interesting articles.
Genre
As a literary device, genre refers to a form, class, or type of literary work. The primary genres in literature are poetry, drama / play, essay, short story, and novel. The term genre is used quite often to denote literary sub-classifications or specific types of literature such as comedy, tragedy, epic poetry, thriller, science fiction ...
Literary Genres
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City College of San Francisco via ASCCC Open Educational Resources Initiative. Table of contents. Example 1: Poetry. Example 2: Fiction. Example 3: Poetry. Example 4: Poetry. Attribution. The following examples are essays where student writers focused on close-reading a literary work. While reading these examples, ask yourself the following ...
Why literary genres matter
Of course, a literary work's genre remains an important factor today. We too distinguish broad categories of poetry, prose, and drama, but also sub-genres (especially within the novel, now the most popular literary form) such as crime, romantic or historical fiction. We do the same in other creative media, such as film, with thrillers ...
What is a Genre? Definition, Examples of Genres in Literature
Define genre in literature: Genre is the classification and organization of literary works into the following categories: poetry, drama, prose, fiction, and nonfiction. The works are divided based on their form, content, and style. While there are subcategories to each of these genres, these are the main categories in which literature is divided.
The 5 Main Literary Genres (Definitions and Examples)
Discover what literary genres are and learn about the five primary genres of literature, including lists of information about each of their different subgenres. ... Essay: An essay is a short piece of writing in which the author elaborates on an idea or topic after conducting thorough research. An essay may aim to engage its readers, influence ...
Genre Definition and Examples in Literature
Prose as a genre can be broken down into a number of subgenres including both fiction and non-fiction works. Examples of prose can range from news, biographies and essays to novels, short stories, plays and fables. The subject matter, if it is fiction versus nonfiction and length of the work, are not taken into consideration when classifying it ...
Exploring Literary Genres: Essays, Epics, Novels, Plays, and More
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List of writing genres
List of writing genres. Appearance. Literary genre. Writing genres (more commonly known as literary genres) are categories that distinguish literature (including works of prose, poetry, drama, hybrid forms, etc.) based on some set of stylistic criteria. Sharing literary conventions, they typically consist of similarities in theme/topic, style ...
Literary Genres
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Make Your "Move": Writing in Genres
In school, you may write in genres like proposals, lab reports, and university admission essays. People in professions often write in highly specialized genres: nurses write care plans; lawyers write legal briefs; scientists write research articles, and so on. (For a more in-depth introduction to the definition and functions of genre, check out ...
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Nonfiction Writing Genres: Biography, autobiography, and essays provide us with glimpses into real-life experiences and knowledge. These genres contribute to our understanding of various subjects ...
The Four Main Types of Essay
An essay is a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. There are many different types of essay, but they are often defined in four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive essays. Argumentative and expository essays are focused on conveying information and making clear points, while narrative and ...
18 Text Types (with Examples)
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Literature
literature, a body of written works. The name has traditionally been applied to those imaginative works of poetry and prose distinguished by the intentions of their authors and the perceived aesthetic excellence of their execution. Literature may be classified according to a variety of systems, including language, national origin, historical ...
Essays on Literary Genres
Absolutely FREE essays on Literary Genres. All examples of topics, summaries were provided by straight-A students. Get an idea for your paper ... Write my essay. 7 Powder by Tobias Wolff: a Tale of Redemption and Connection ... In the short story "Slower Than the Rest," Cynthia Rylant explores the theme of individual differences and the ...
Academic Writing Genres & Common Assignments
Within the field of writing, there are four main genres: descriptive, persuasive, expository, and narrative. When generating a piece of academic writing, the author may utilize skills from any of the four genres, and within each of these categories, specific types of academic assignments may be presented. This page provides an overview of each ...
Literature: Definition, Types and Genres
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Essay On Literary Genres
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Free Essays on Literary Genres, Examples, Topics, Outlines
Need some inspiration before writing Literary Genres essay? Explore 100% free Literary Genres essays, research paper examples and choose any topic you need. Essay Samples. Art; Business; Culture; ... a short story written by Theodroe Dalrymple conveys the brutalism expressed by the modern intellectuals in the western countries. The essay that ...

Literary Genres: Definition and Examples of the 4 Essential Genres and 100+ Subgenres

Table of Contents

What Are Literary Genres? Literary Genre Definition

Why Literary Genres Matter

Why Literary Genres Matter to Readers

Why Literary Genres Matter to Writers

What Literary Genre is NOT: Story Type vs. Literary Genres

How Many Literary Genres Are There? The 4 Essential Genres, and 100+ Genres and Subgenres

1. Nonfiction: Is it true?

2. Fiction: Is it, at some level, imagined?

3. Drama: Is it performed?

4. Poetry: Is it verse?

The 100+ Literary Genres and Subgenres with Definitions

1. Fiction Genres

2. Nonfiction Genres

3. Drama Genres

4. Poetry Genres

What Are the Components of Genre In Literature? The 7 Elements of Genre

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What is a Genre? Definition, Examples of Genres in Literature

What is Genre in Literature?

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Genres in Literature

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Exploring Literary Genres: Essays, Epics, Novels, Plays, and More

Literary Genres

Literary Genres Examples

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Sub-Genres of Poetry

Sub-Genres of Drama

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What Are the Three Genres of Literature?

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