Whether nestled amidst rolling hills or in a flat rural area, small towns embody a unique charm and character that serve as the perfect backdrop for riveting storytelling. From curious and cliquish residents to deep-seated histories and simmering tensions, the dynamics of small-town life offer a wealth of material for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with readers.
I love small town novels and movies, too. And, actually, the setting doesn’t have to be in a small town. It can be a small area within a city, or even group of close-knit people. I’m reminded of the television series: “Cheers, “Friends,” and “Seinfeld.” True, these aren’t books but they were screenplays, always, when done well, a good lesson for learning more about the craft of writing.
Click HERE to listen to my 2020 podcast on iHeartRadio: Escape into Small Town Genre.
Curious and Cliquish Residents and Families:
Small towns are often characterized by tight-knit communities where everyone knows everyone else's business. Residents and families share intertwined histories, relationships, and loyalties, creating a web of connections that can be both comforting and confining. In small-town novels, authors can delve into the intricate dynamics of these relationships, exploring the bonds of friendship, the tensions of rivalries, and the allure of belonging to a community where familiarity breeds both comfort and scrutiny.
Deep-Seated Histories:
Small towns are steeped in history, with stories passed down through generations that shape the town's identity and traditions. Authors can weave rich tapestries of the town's past, incorporating historical events, family legacies, and local folklore to add depth and authenticity to their storytelling. By immersing readers in the town's heritage, authors create a sense of place and nostalgia that resonates with readers and enhances the narrative's emotional impact.
Gossip and Grudges:
No small town is without its share of gossip, rumors, and longstanding feuds that simmer beneath the surface. In small-town novels, authors can explore the power of gossip to shape perceptions, fuel conflicts, and unearth long-buried secrets. By tapping into the town's gossip mill and delving into the repercussions of past grudges, authors can create tension, drama, and intrigue that keep readers eagerly turning the pages.
Secrets:
Small towns are breeding grounds for secrets, both big and small, that are carefully guarded and selectively shared among residents. These secrets can range from personal scandals and hidden romances to long-buried mysteries and unsolved crimes. Authors can use secrets as narrative catalysts, driving the plot forward, creating suspense, and revealing the hidden truths that lie at the heart of the town's past and present.
Uniting Against a Newcomer:
In small-town novels, the arrival of a newcomer can disrupt the delicate balance of the community, stirring up old rivalries, triggering hidden resentments, and challenging the status quo. Yet, when faced with an external threat or a newcomer who threatens the town's way of life, small-town residents often set aside their differences and band together in a show of unity and resilience. This theme of communal strength in the face of adversity highlights the enduring bonds that tie small-town communities together, showcasing the power of solidarity and shared purpose to overcome challenges and forge a brighter future.
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