Modern western novels typically show a high degree of experimentation. Authors play with language, form, and style. Some may use very vivid and descriptive language to create a strong sense of place or atmosphere. In addition, they tend to reflect the contemporary social and cultural context. For instance, novels might deal with the impact of technology on human relationships, as we see in many science - fiction novels. They also often question established values and norms, inviting readers to think about the world in new ways.
Western mythology was widely used in modern novels. It could be used by creating a new mythical world, changing the fate of the characters in the original mythology, or integrating them into modern storylines. Here are some examples:
Creating a new mythological world: Modern novels often use mythological elements from Western mythology to create a new world structure. For example, in the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter's parents were killed by the evil wizard Voldemort, but Voldemort created a magical world after his death, allowing Harry and his friends to enter this world and begin their journey to find their parents. This example of integrating elements of Western mythology into modern storylines used the concepts of death and resurrection in Western mythology to create a new fantasy world.
2. Changing the fate of the original mythological characters: Modern novels can create a more realistic plot by changing the fate of the original mythological characters. For example, in the Lord of the Rings series, Gandalf was a friend and mentor of the Hobbits, but at the end of the story, Gandalf was sucked into the magic of the Lord of the Rings and became a part of the Lord of the Rings. This example of merging western mythological characters into modern storylines used the concepts of magic and power in western mythology to create a more sci-fi story.
3. Incorporate it into modern storylines: Modern novels can integrate the plots of Western myths into modern storylines to create a more magical plot. For example, in the Harry Potter series, Harry and his friends were studying at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, but the headmaster, Dumbledore, was killed by Voldemort. After the Battle of Hogwarts, Harry and his friends returned to their hometown, but they found that their hometown had been occupied by evil forces. This example of integrating the plots of Western mythology into modern storylines used the concepts of war and magic in Western mythology to create a more warlike and magical storyline.
Modern Western mercenary group novels usually depicted a group of people with powerful mercenary abilities who formed a small group in a fictional world for a certain purpose to carry out various adventures and battles.
Common plots included:
- The protagonist joined a mercenary group and began an adventure.
- The members of a mercenary group usually had their own unique skills and abilities that required long-term training and grinding.
- The missions of mercenary groups usually included protecting treasures, defeating enemies, rescuing hostages, and so on.
- The protagonist may become friends or enemies with some of the main members and have complicated relationships during the adventure.
Such novels often involved mercenary culture, history, politics, religion and many other fields. They also often explored topics such as human nature, power, honor and so on.
Well, modern western romance novels often feature strong female leads. They are independent and have their own goals in life, not just relying on the male characters. For example, in some novels, the female protagonist is a successful businesswoman.
Cormac McCarthy's 'No Country for Old Men' is also among the best. It's a dark and gritty tale set in the American Southwest. The story follows a man who stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong and is then hunted by a remorseless killer.
Well, modern day western novels often feature complex characters. These characters are not just one - dimensional but have a mix of good and bad qualities. For example, in 'Gone Girl', the two main characters are full of contradictions. Moreover, the settings are quite varied. It could be a big city like New York in some novels, showing the hustle and bustle, or a small rural town to explore a more close - knit community. And the language used can be very contemporary, with a lot of modern slang and cultural references.
Another one is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. This novel is full of twists and turns. It delves into the complex relationship between a husband and a wife, with a very unique narrative structure that keeps the readers on their toes.
Well, 'The Kiss Quotient' by Helen Hoang is a great one. It has an autistic heroine who decides to hire an escort to teach her about sex and relationships, but of course, they end up falling in love. Then there's 'The Simple Wild' by K.A. Tucker. It tells the story of a city girl who travels to Alaska to meet her estranged father and ends up falling for a local bush pilot. And 'Beach Read' by Emily Henry is also excellent. Two writers with different genres end up swapping and helping each other write while also falling in love.
One characteristic is the exploration of complex modern identities. Writers often delve into how individuals in the West are shaped by globalization, multiculturalism, and rapid technological changes. For example, characters may struggle with multiple cultural heritages or the dehumanizing effects of technology.
One characteristic is the exploration of complex social issues. For example, many modern western novels like 'To Kill a Mockingbird' deal with racism. Another is the use of experimental narrative techniques. 'Infinite Jest' has a very complex and non - linear narrative. Also, they often have a strong sense of character development, as seen in 'The Catcher in the Rye' where Holden Caulfield is a very well - developed and relatable character.