The Case for Varying Novel Lengths: 30,000 Words to 70,000 Words

Introduction

When it comes to crafting a novel, one often wonders if a certain number of words is mandatory. Questions like, 'Is 30,000 words enough for a book?' or 'Is 60,000 words enough for a novel?' arise frequently in the literary community. Neither of these questions has a definitive answer. Instead, the appropriate length of your novel should align with your narrative and intended audience. In this article, we explore the variables that influence novel length and understand why there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

Understanding Typical Novel Lengths

Various factors contribute to the length of a novel, including the genre, complexity of the plot, and the depth of character development. Generally, the average novel ranges from 50,000 to 100,000 words. However, this can vary significantly based on the author's vision and the genre's expectations. For example, an epic fantasy novel might exceed 100,000 words, while a young adult romance novel might be closer to 70,000 words.

Personal Experience and Practical Insights

My journey as a writer has shown that a 30,000-word novel can be a substantial piece of work. One of my publications, a 150,000-word novel, was notably thick when printed in A4 paper. Interestingly, writing shorter chapters, around 1,500 words per chapter, was a standardized experiment for me, resulting in a 300,000-word story spread across six volumes. Today, my approach has evolved to longer chapters, typically ranging from 4,000 to 10,000 words. It's important to note that the appropriate length should depend on the platform where you choose to publish and the preferences of your audience.

Historical Context and Gatekeeping

The perception of what constitutes a 'normal' length for a novel has evolved over time. In the past, maintaining certain word counts was a form of gatekeeping, controlled by literary gatekeepers who had their own subjective standards. For instance, Stephen King's early novel Carrie was approximately 60,000 words, while The Road weighed in at around 50,000 words. Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck was an incredibly succinct 30,000 words. The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway is another example of a concise yet impactful work.

Today, there's a growing belief that authors should focus on the content rather than adhering strictly to word counts. Critics and marketers may claim to know what readers want, but in reality, they often miss the mark. What resonates with one reader may not appeal to another. Therefore, the most important aspect is to write stories that reflect your passion and vision.

Engaging Readers and Marketing Efforts

When it comes to engaging readers, it's crucial to understand that critics and marketers are not always attuned to the diverse and evolving tastes of the literary community. Sometimes, these gatekeepers may be out of touch with what readers truly desire. Many novels that are acclaimed by readers have shorter word counts, such as The Old Man and the Sea and Of Mice and Men.

When setting out to write a novel, it's essential to focus on the essence of your story. Consider the following points:

Does the word count enhance the narrative or detract from it? Is the story compelling and engaging? Do the characters and plot progress the story effectively?

Remember, the length of your novel should serve the story, not the other way around. As you continue to write, trust your instincts and let your passion guide your creative process. By doing so, you'll create a novel that resonates with your intended audience and stands on its own merits.