There are a lot of conventions in writing. An entire industry exists to train authors in these conventions, with the promise of creating the next best-seller. Another industry exists that teaches how to break the conventions for the same goal. Logically, both approaches can’t be right. So what is the poor, struggling wordsmith to do?
Throw logic out the window.
Conventions provide a framework for storytelling that allows the reader to feel comfortable. “Ah, the hero’s journey opening,” the reader says. “I know this story. I’m in the mood for this story. I’ll continue reading.”
Many writers will use the conventions without question until someone breaks them in a truly amazing way. Then the innovation becomes popular and eventually becomes a convention.
The problem arises when trying to introduce an innovation, a new style. Hew too closely to the old ways and you risk being considered inexperienced and not worth reading. Veer too far and you risk being considered incompetent and not worth reading. Furthermore, no one can predict what will strike readers as that sweet spot between what is conventional (and therefore comfortable) and what is innovative.
The best we as writers can do is offer a product that precisely conveys our vision. If we are ahead of our time, perhaps we’ll be lucky enough to see our time arrive. If not, we’ve still told our story – and that counts as success.