Most novels have an easily understood point to make to the reader.
Do stories ever have a more subtle or intuitive theme?
Actually, this is a hard question to answer.
To intuit is "to know, sense, or understand by
intuition" (Merriam Webster definition). Intuition is what we understand,
often unconsciously, about any situation. A condition usually based on our
previous experiences, our senses, and our primal instincts. In writing, if used
intentionally, it is good because the author involves the reader on different
levels of perception. But it might be unconsciously used with unexpected
results and the reader can sometimes perceive themes in writing that the author
never intended. Words and minds are tricky things.
Since every word can give slightly different meanings and
connotations, it shows how the author's intent in using certain words can
sometimes differ dramatically from how a reader understands them.
When might it be a conscious choice by the author?
This often happens when the author uses a show rather than tell method. Showing usually involves the use of description especially in a character's actions and expressions, leaving it to the reader to share the character’s reaction from their personal understanding. The reader's perception might be very emotional, especially if they have experienced the same or similar situations.
This often happens when the author uses a show rather than tell method. Showing usually involves the use of description especially in a character's actions and expressions, leaving it to the reader to share the character’s reaction from their personal understanding. The reader's perception might be very emotional, especially if they have experienced the same or similar situations.
The opposite can happen, too, from both author’s and the reader’s perspectives. An author might unintentionally insert oblique messages, and since
we all experience life differently, we all have a slightly different
understanding of what is happening. The reader might also have had a very
different reaction to an experience, meaning their understanding of the scene might
differ from what the author intended.
We often use gut instinct for insight. Intuitive means a reader
can understand without a lot of explanation from the author because the situation or emotions
are so familiar. They don't have to think about the meaning. They know it.
While these subtle reactions might be unacknowledged, they still have an impact
on the reader.
My guess is I’ve used intuitive writing and that most authors have
also used it, especially since one goal of fiction writing is to engage the
reader’s emotions.
Please visit the following blogs for other takes on this topic.
