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Werewolf novels are the perfect embodiment of fantasy novels, extremely captivating that there’s a surplus of them in literature. How do authors make theirs stand out?
Werewolves have long been popular in legends and society, even before they were written in literature.
Figures known for their mystical transformations and inhuman traits, it’s impossible not to be enthralled by their character. The possibility of their existence is enough to cause intrigue and wonder to any human with imagination. Their roles varied from one end of the spectrum to the other, with some perceiving them as a threat to humanity while others believed they were benevolent guardians.
Before people’s creativity was incorporated into their mythical origins, werewolves were already figures of exciting attributes. Their colorful history is why they continued to increase modern literature. With the magic laced in their existence and wonder in their being, it’s no wonder they seize people’s interest regardless of how they’re portrayed.
Throughout history, werewolves have been painted as both protagonists and antagonists in stories. With their grotesque appearance and even more disturbing transformations, they’re a perfect ingredient to thrillers and fantasy playing for both good and bad sides. Werewolf characters are a symbol of strength. Whenever they’re brought up in the narrative, they’re commonly associated with courage and dominance. But how do authors ensure their novel or characters stand out in the world of literature where werewolf fiction is gradually becoming condensed?
Edward R. Lipinski is among the recent authors who have dabbled into werewolf literature. In his Werewolf On Madison Avenue, the author utilizes the timeless figure and weaves it into a present-time tale that resonates with modern readers. It’s a novel that perfectly balances a century-old character continuously capturing people’s attention with a current tale that may already seem humdrum. However, Edward manages to craft an impactful amalgamation of both worlds into one enthralling novel centered on the fight between mundanity and primal instincts.
The story diverts itself from the rest of the werewolf novels.
Other authors may maximize how werewolves are fictional beasts commonly found in fantasy stories and write heavily fantasy-themed stories. This is why werewolves have also been typically associated with vampires and other mythical figures because they’re only commonly crafted in period novels or the classical fantasy genre. Edward’s book proves how werewolf characters don’t have to stick to stereotypes to be effective. Authors can utilize other techniques and incorporate these figures in narratives beyond the archetypal stories.
Werewolves don’t always have to be the vampires’ rivals. They don’t always have to follow the mate or alpha allegory. Instead, they can be incorporated into more straightforward narratives as long as the author fully controls how they’re depicted and their role throughout the story.
Werewolf stories aren’t always everyone’s cup of tea. But with the proper conception and creative influence, authors can surely entice readers to check their stories out.
For starters, it’s time to consider veering away from the stereotypical representation of these characters. Aside from the rivalry or mate selection, werewolves don’t always have to attack and bite people. While they’re primarily about primate instincts, authors can consider tweaking their literary DNAs and craft them differently.
Sure, they have to retain the appearance of a big dog person who transforms at full moons. But instead of going on a total rampage in the city, perhaps it’s time to think of another way to portray their instincts. Changing this character will add an exciting twist to the classic character, an experimental yet intriguing way of creating a newer depiction of werewolves. It would be a refreshing twist for readers who may have already anticipated rereading the same traits and behaviors from these characters.
While they’re a symbol of human primate instinct, a representation of what it would be when people let out the rawness in their desires, werewolves don’t always have to maul people to death.
Patterns may be where readers are most comfortable.
But they must be changed from time to time.
This allows for literary improvement and development. Authors shouldn’t stick to what’s existing. Instead, they must challenge these and address what they believe is lacking. They can’t expect to be completely different from the others, but they would be fresh and away from the clichéd tropes and traits. They can list the existing stereotypes within werewolf novels, keep what they believe will benefit their stories, and change what wouldn’t.
Authors should know what they believe is interesting within the trope.
For instance, instead of the typical vampire rivalry, they can utilize other fictional figures as the werewolves’ rivals and have them side with the vampires. This change in dynamic might seem trivial, but some readers would appreciate this uniqueness.
Aside from changing what’s existing, authors should also address what werewolf novels lack. What does the genre need to be more attractive? These changes incorporate the author’s take and angle, ultimately making their story personal and unique.
The Damsel’s Files 