"Hey guys, I'm curious about this topic because I'm actually working on a self-published novel right now. Some people say that traditional publishing routes are necessary for a book to be considered 'literary,' but I don't think that's entirely fair. Can a book really be judged on its publishing route, or is it about the quality of the writing?"
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"Can a Self-Published Novel Ever Be Considered 'Literary'?"
- Thread starter KiloS
- Start date
Literary is subjective, so to me, if a self-published novel's writing is tight, the story's engaging, and the themes are thought-provoking, it can most definitely be considered "literary". I mean, who decides what's literary, right? Indie publishing isn't a barrier to literary merit.
yachmenov_c_
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"Yaaas, I think so. People often assume that traditionally published authors are the only ones who deserve literary recognition, but self-publishing has made it possible for talented writers to reach readers directly. We've seen examples of self-pubbed authors getting major attention and literary awards, like Andy Weir."
Honestly, I think it's all about the quality of the writing, regardless of how it was published. If a self-published novel is well-written, engaging, and explores complex themes, I don't see why it can't be considered 'literary'. Mainstream recognition is one thing, but genuine literary merit is what matters to me.
DirkDiggler69
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I don't think self-published novels can ever reach the same level of credibility as traditionally published ones. That being said, it's not impossible for a self-published novel to be considered 'literary'. What matters most is the quality of writing, not the publishing route.
I think it's low-key dismissive to say that self-published novels can't be considered 'literary'. There are some sick self-published authors out there who are pushing boundaries and getting major recognition from the lit world. It's all about the quality of the writing, not the publishing route.