MIXING GENRES

            James Rollins once told me that mixing genres is no big deal. He does it all the time and I’d like to address that.

BEGINNINGS

            We just had our second science fiction panel at the local library and the subject, of course, was how you use science or science fiction in your work.

            We had a variety of genres represented, with my two published genres, fantasy and adventure/thriller not directly science fiction.

            Because a genre is one thing, does that mean you’re not “allowed” to use something from another?

BREAKING THE RULES

            Some writers talk about breaking the rules, like it’s a mantra for throwing out all writing and grammar conventions so they don’t have to make a coherent story.

            When I think of breaking the rules, it’s more like using something science fiction in an adventure story. How about using steampunk in fantasy? How about using romance in a western?

            There’s nothing stopping you from mixing in a little bit of something else for the purpose of the story. It’s done all the time. In fact, it’s done so much it’s hardly breaking the rules.

PURISTS

            There are, of course, purists who either don’t like a mix of genres, or simply stick to the plan. There are thousands if not millions of books out there that stick to their genre.

            Then again, there are just as many books that are a mix.

            Does that mean if you mix things, you’ll lose half your audience?

            I can tell you from personal experience, your audience generally doesn’t mind if you mix things. They’re also not going to call you out for sticking to the plan. No matter what you write, if it’s good, most people are going to love it.

A HEALTHY MIX

            A healthy mix of genres can be everything from a touch to half the book. There’s no limit to how you mix things.

            The key to any of this is that it has to make sense. Period.

            You can’t have a western and mix in some science fiction unless there’s a reason for it. The movie Cowboys and Aliens is a good example.

            On the other hand, if the mix is so out of place it stops the reader from going on, well…

SUMMARY

            There’s nothing wrong with mixing genres. The key is that it must make sense.

            Happy writing!