Navigating the Unnamed Genre of Action-Adventure Fiction

As an aspiring writer, my journey through the literary world has taken me through various genres, from classic Science Fiction and Fantasy to the mystery and detective plots of historical fiction. However, there is a particular genre that stands out, a combination of action, adventure, and historical elements, often referred to as 'Indiana Jones stuff' or 'Dan Brown' inspired writings. This genre, currently unnamed, captivates me with its thrilling narratives and globe-trotting heroes.

Defining the Unnamed Genre

The unnamed genre I refer to can be traced back to the template of the great Indiana Jones films and novels, or more specifically, the works of Dan Brown. It typically features a contemporary period action-adventure story centered around a historical artifact, a plot that delves deep into the mysteries of the past. Titles that fall within this genre often feature a noun or a verb that hints at the historical or cultural significance of the artifact. For example, 'The Crown of Cleopatra' or 'The Archimedes Palimpsest' will lead you straight into the heart of this thrilling adventure.

While the protagonist can be a famous adventurer like Indiana Jones, they can also be an ordinary man with skills in ancient languages or other useful abilities. The modern-day equivalent might be a fantastic hero who is an ex-special ops adventurer, complete with convenient acronyms, handsome looks, and gun-toting karate chops. These characters often form well-funded teams, but they are typically opposed by villains with equally intriguing code names. What sets this genre apart is its global exploration and the thrill of uncovering historical mysteries, even if the history might be slightly exaggerated for the sake of entertainment.

Identifying and Appreciating This Genre

Stories in this genre are often identifiable through their captivating titles that hint at the important historical objects at the center of the plot. These titles can range from 'The Aztec Mask' to 'The Vengeance of Montezuma'. Friction between these types of stories can be found in the overlap of the 'Venn Diagram', with 'The Archimedes Palimpsest' or 'The Harappa Bequest' on one side of the diagram and 'The Excalibur Conclusion' or 'The Vengeance of Montezuma' leaning towards the thriller side. While these examples may seem over-the-top, they effectively capture the essence of this exciting genre.

It's important to note that this genre is not solely about the historical accuracy of the artifacts or events. Instead, it focuses on the thrill of the adventure, the mystery, and the excitement of exploring the past. What makes this genre even more intriguing is the lack of a widely accepted name, leaving room for endless possibilities.

Personal Insights and Writing Habits

While I have written in several genres, including hard science fiction and fantasy, my focus often leans towards 'hard' based on established scientific principles. This genre allows me to explore profound life questions and delve into spiritual themes, ensuring that my stories remain grounded in reality. I find this genre more compelling because it allows me to create a new mythology that is based on real science, thus maintaining a sense of credibility and grounding my narratives in the real world.

However, when I write in a particular genre, I consciously avoid reading in that genre simultaneously. The risk of unintentionally copying plot concepts, approaches, or even borrowing entire passages is too high. Moreover, the immersive nature of writing a novel can be so consuming that I rarely read while actively working on a manuscript. The act of writing becomes a time-consuming process that demands my full attention, and I'm more focused on the end result and personal connection to my story rather than exploring new authors.

Conclusion

While the unnamed genre of action-adventure fiction remains without a widely accepted name, it thrives in its unique blend of historical curiosity, global exploration, and adventure. For me, this genre is a fascinating exploration of the past that invites readers to join the hero on a thrilling journey. Whether through Indiana Jones stories or Dan Brown's works, this genre continues to captivate readers and inspire new writers to push the boundaries of historical fiction.