between poetic prose and rapid action: which style do u prefer?

[Yedde]

do you find yourself drawn to richly descriptive, poetic storytelling that immerses you in its world, or do you prefer a fast-paced, action-driven narrative that keeps you turning the pages?
also, i have a story written in my own style, which leans towards deep descriptions and symbolism -do you think it wold find an audience?

 

[ThisAdamGuy]

A mixture of both, but leaning toward action. I don't want an elaborately painted landscape where every leaf on every tree is drawn with photographic realism, but I don't want a Mega Man sprite comic that took thirty seconds to throw together either. I want a comic book that's nicely drawn but keeps a strong, consistent pace that's always pushing me toward the end. Oh, and the ability to make better metaphors. I want that too.

You're probably going to find that most readers on this site lean toward fast paced action even more than I do.

 

[Yedde]

A mixture of both, but leaning toward action. I don't want an elaborately painted landscape where every leaf on every tree is drawn with photographic realism, but I don't want a Mega Man sprite comic that took thirty seconds to throw together either. I want a comic book that's nicely drawn but keeps a strong, consistent pace that's always pushing me toward the end. Oh, and the ability to make better metaphors. I want that too.

You're probably going to find that most readers on this site lean toward fast paced action even more than I do.

That makes a lot of sense! A balance between immersive descriptions and strong pacing is definitely key to keeping readers engaged. I personally enjoy crafting vivid imagery, but I also recognize the need to keep the story moving. Finding that sweet spot where the prose enhances the experience without slowing it down is something I’m working on.

And I totally get what you mean about metaphors! A well-placed metaphor can elevate the storytelling without overloading it with unnecessary details.

It’s interesting that most readers here lean toward fast-paced action. Do you think there’s still room for a more lyrical approach if the pacing remains strong?

 

[AddieJP3]

I prefer a mixture of both. I really like straightforward narratives with a partially dry tone and a slightly poetic touch. Forgive me if that makes absolutely no sense, but I guess it also depends on the novel for each tone. I have many different favorite genres. One is dystopian, and when it's a dystopian novel, I guess I prefer a fast-paced story with just the right amount of poetic storytelling. But with other stories like the ones written by John Green (who I love) have a more straightforward and philosophical tone. But I also really like stories that leave things for the reader to infer (I don't really like it when there is an info dump. So I like to learn things as I go).

That makes a lot of sense! A balance between immersive descriptions and strong pacing is definitely key to keeping readers engaged. I personally enjoy crafting vivid imagery, but I also recognize the need to keep the story moving. Finding that sweet spot where the prose enhances the experience without slowing it down is something I’m working on.

And I totally get what you mean about metaphors! A well-placed metaphor can elevate the storytelling without overloading it with unnecessary details.

It’s interesting that most readers here lean toward fast-paced action. Do you think there’s still room for a more lyrical approach if the pacing remains strong?

I do think that there is room for lyrical approaches as long as you keep the story moving. Maybe that's just my personal opinion, because I actually enjoy it whenever the author adds those moments of reflection that the main character really thinks about stuff. Because usually, when they do, that's when they have those epiphanies. Like, "Ohhh, I get it now." And you learn a lot more about the character that way.

 

[Yedde]

I prefer a mixture of both. I really like straightforward narratives with a partially dry tone and a slightly poetic touch. Forgive me if that makes absolutely no sense, but I guess it also depends on the novel for each tone. I have many different favorite genres. One is dystopian, and when it's a dystopian novel, I guess I prefer a fast-paced story with just the right amount of poetic storytelling. But with other stories like the ones written by John Green (who I love) have a more straightforward and philosophical tone. But I also really like stories that leave things for the reader to infer (I don't really like it when there is an info dump. So I like to learn things as I go).

I do think that there is room for lyrical approaches as long as you keep the story moving. Maybe that's just my personal opinion, because I actually enjoy it whenever the author adds those moments of reflection that the main character really thinks about stuff. Because usually, when they do, that's when they have those epiphanies. Like, "Ohhh, I get it now." And you learn a lot more about the character that way.

A balance between a straightforward narrative and a poetic touch can make a story feel both grounded and immersive. I completely agree that different genres call for different tones.. dystopian fiction, for example, often benefits from a fast pace with just the right amount of lyricism. My writing leans toward deeper, symbolic storytelling, similar to how authors like Patrick Rothfuss (The Name of the Wind) or Gene Wolfe (The Book of the New Sun) craft their worlds. They use rich descriptions and layered meaning, but the depth adds to the experience rather than slowing it down. The challenge is making sure the story remains engaging without overwhelming the reader with too much information at once.

 

[Tsuru]

That makes a lot of sense! A balance between immersive descriptions and strong pacing is definitely key to keeping readers engaged. I personally enjoy crafting vivid imagery, but I also recognize the need to keep the story moving. Finding that sweet spot where the prose enhances the experience without slowing it down is something I’m working on.

And I totally get what you mean about metaphors! A well-placed metaphor can elevate the storytelling without overloading it with unnecessary details.

It’s interesting that most readers here lean toward fast-paced action. Do you think there’s still room for a more lyrical approach if the pacing remains strong?

Look at CN (chinese novels) for descriptive
and JP for direct-action and lack of description

Some CN are overly detailed. Some are well-dosed detailed.
vs
Some JP are nicely direct-to-action (onepunch). Some are downright lacking and skipping words or the fight.

 

[Yedde]

Look at CN (chinese novels) for descriptive
and JP for direct-action and lack of description

Some CN are overly detailed. Some are well-dosed detailed.
vs
Some JP are nicely direct-to-action (onepunch). Some are downright lacking and skipping words or the fight.

I’ve read over a thousand Chinese and Japanese novels , and I completely see the contrast between the two styles. (CN) tend to be highly descriptive.. sometimes to the point of excess, but when done well, the level of detail can create an incredibly immersive world. Meanwhile, (JP) often focus on direct-action storytelling, with some being well-paced and engaging, while others can feel too minimalistic, skipping key descriptions or fight sequences. Compared to both, English novels seem to strike a balance between these extremes. Western fantasy and literary fiction often embrace rich descriptions , while thriller and action genres lean toward a more straightforward, fast-paced narrative. There’s also a lot of variation within each category, but overall, English storytelling tends to blend world-building and pacing more evenly.

 

[AddieJP3]

I'm going to be honest, I've never read either Japanese or Chinese novels

. I think I've tried to read some, but I've never actually finished any. Meanwhile I've read English, French-to-English, and I think that's it? It's pretty limited. Right now, though, I've been trying to read classic literature like "Pride and Prejudice" (Old, ik), and that style type is pretty much like reading another language

It requires putting a lot of thought into it for you to be able to understand what it is you are reading, but once you do, it is pretty entertaining. And it's definitely a lot more in-depth and descriptive than most. Next I want to try Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables", though that, I'm sure, is going to be plenty difficult. I might have to try reading Chinese novels some time. Any ones that you might recommend?

 

[Yedde]

I'm going to be honest, I've never read either Japanese or Chinese novels

. I think I've tried to read some, but I've never actually finished any. Meanwhile I've read English, French-to-English, and I think that's it? It's pretty limited. Right now, though, I've been trying to read classic literature like "Pride and Prejudice" (Old, ik), and that style type is pretty much like reading another language

It requires putting a lot of thought into it for you to be able to understand what it is you are reading, but once you do, it is pretty entertaining. And it's definitely a lot more in-depth and descriptive than most. Next I want to try Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables", though that, I'm sure, is going to be plenty difficult. I might have to try reading Chinese novels some time. Any ones that you might recommend?

It’s totally understandable if you’ve never really gotten into Japanese or Chinese novels yet.. it’s definitely a different kind of reading experience compared to English or French! I love that you're diving into classic literature like Pride and Prejudice.. it’s one of those timeless books that really makes you appreciate the depth and elegance of language, even if it requires more thought. You’re right that classic novels tend to be much more descriptive and intricate than modern ones, which is part of their charm. As for Les Miserables, I agree.. it’s quite a challenge, but it’s so rewarding once you get into it. Hugo's ability to weave history, philosophy, and human nature into the story is incredible!

If you do decide to give Chinese novels a try, a good starting point might be something like The Three-Body Problem It's a sci-fi series that blends complex philosophical ideas with fast-paced action and gripping plot twists. It's not as heavy on poetic descriptions like some traditional Chinese works, but it has a depth and complexity that I think you might appreciate. Another one could be The Water Margin which is an older, more epic tale with rich character development and lots of action. Both are very different, but they give a good introduction to modern and classic Chinese storytelling

 

[CharlesEBrown]

I’ve read over a thousand Chinese and Japanese novels

Wow - I think I've read about 2000 total novels, lifetime. Very impressed.

But back on topic here - I like it when there is a bit of poetry in the descriptions but not too much (and one of my weaknesses as a writer, IMO, is that I tend to skimp on details because when I don't, I go overboard). But I also can get burned out on straight up, non-stop action (both reading and writing), so really NEED a mix.

 

[Yedde]

Wow - I think I've read about 2000 total novels, lifetime. Very impressed.

But back on topic here - I like it when there is a bit of poetry in the descriptions but not too much (and one of my weaknesses as a writer, IMO, is that I tend to skimp on details because when I don't, I go overboard). But I also can get burned out on straight up, non-stop action (both reading and writing), so really NEED a mix.

Woah! 2k novels is incredibly impressive! That’s a lot of reading, and it definitely shows in the depth of your understanding of what works in storytelling As for your weakness of skimping on details, a great way to overcome this is by thinking in layers.. start with the essential details, then gradually build on them as the scene unfolds. You can also experiment with creating (anchor) descriptions for key moments, making sure you paint just enough to guide the reader’s imagination without overwhelming them one book that I highly recommend to almost every writer is On Writing by Stephen King. It’s part memoir, part guidebook, and it breaks down the art of storytelling in a very accessible way

 

[CharlesEBrown]

Woah! 2k novels is incredibly impressive!

Well I am over a half century old... And used to read a lot during long commutes both in Chicago and Boston...

That’s a lot of reading, and it definitely shows in the depth of your understanding of what works in storytelling As for your weakness of skimping on details, a great way to overcome this is by thinking in layers.. start with the essential details, then gradually build on them as the scene unfolds. You can also experiment with creating (anchor) descriptions for key moments, making sure you paint just enough to guide the reader’s imagination

I Have tried that - it requires more planning and discipline than I have, usually (or, when it doesn't, those are the times I go overboard, and lose the "moment" in the description). It is a balancing act and I tend to get caught up on the action with a few intensely visual moments.

without overwhelming them one book that I highly recommend to almost every writer is On Writing by Stephen King. It’s part memoir, part guidebook, and it breaks down the art of storytelling in a very accessible way

Did like his Danse Macabre (better than a lot of his fiction, actually), but have never even seen that - have heard it recommended a few times though. Thanks.

 

[Tsuru]

Wow - I think I've read about 2000 total novels, lifetime. Very impressed.

But back on topic here - I like it when there is a bit of poetry in the descriptions but not too much (and one of my weaknesses as a writer, IMO, is that I tend to skimp on details because when I don't, I go overboard). But I also can get burned out on straight up, non-stop action (both reading and writing), so really NEED a mix.

Woah! 2k novels is incredibly impressive! That’s a lot of reading, and it definitely shows in the depth of your understanding of what works in storytelling As for your weakness of skimping on details, a great way to overcome this is by thinking in layers.. start with the essential details, then gradually build on them as the scene unfolds. You can also experiment with creating (anchor) descriptions for key moments, making sure you paint just enough to guide the reader’s imagination without overwhelming them one book that I highly recommend to almost every writer is On Writing by Stephen King. It’s part memoir, part guidebook, and it breaks down the art of storytelling in a very accessible way

Me having losing count.

 

[AddieJP3]

Wow - I think I've read about 2000 total novels, lifetime. Very impressed.

But back on topic here - I like it when there is a bit of poetry in the descriptions but not too much (and one of my weaknesses as a writer, IMO, is that I tend to skimp on details because when I don't, I go overboard). But I also can get burned out on straight up, non-stop action (both reading and writing), so really NEED a mix.

me too

Me having losing count.

i know what you mean. i only started keeping track like this past year. 2024, i read around eighty books. this year so far I've read only around twelve, and I've got to step up my game if imma reach my goal

 

[Tsuru]

I’ve read over a thousand Chinese and Japanese novels , and I completely see the contrast between the two styles. (CN) tend to be highly descriptive.. sometimes to the point of excess, but when done well, the level of detail can create an incredibly immersive world. Meanwhile, (JP) often focus on direct-action storytelling, with some being well-paced and engaging, while others can feel too minimalistic, skipping key descriptions or fight sequences. Compared to both, English novels seem to strike a balance between these extremes. Western fantasy and literary fiction often embrace rich descriptions , while thriller and action genres lean toward a more straightforward, fast-paced narrative. There’s also a lot of variation within each category, but overall, English storytelling tends to blend world-building and pacing more evenly.

Wow - I think I've read about 2000 total novels, lifetime. Very impressed.

But back on topic here - I like it when there is a bit of poetry in the descriptions but not too much (and one of my weaknesses as a writer, IMO, is that I tend to skimp on details because when I don't, I go overboard). But I also can get burned out on straight up, non-stop action (both reading and writing), so really NEED a mix.

me too

i know what you mean. i only started keeping track like this past year. 2024, i read around eighty books. this year so far I've read only around twelve, and I've got to step up my game if imma reach my goal

 

[Yedde]

Four friends were sitting together, bragging about how many books they had read. The first one says:
“I’ve read over a thousand books! I’m a true bookworm!”

The second one proudly responds: “wow! wow! I’ve read two thousand books, easily!”

The third one leans back and says: “Honestly, I lost count, nya~! I’ve probably read thousands by now, nya~!”

The fourth one, who hasn’t read as many, looks at them with admiration and says: “Woah... that’s impressive! I haven’t read that many... but I’ve read your books! ”

The second one: "Really?!"

The fourth one: "Sike! I wish!"

 

[ElijahRyne]

do you find yourself drawn to richly descriptive, poetic storytelling that immerses you in its world, or do you prefer a fast-paced, action-driven narrative that keeps you turning the pages?
also, i have a story written in my own style, which leans towards deep descriptions and symbolism -do you think it wold find an audience?

Make it fit the mood of the scene, as everyone says, but at default flowery language is nice imo.