There seems to be this unseen rule that writers can only write in one genre. That as writers our first published book sets our path for the rest of our careers. Why are we set to one path once our first publication hits the market?

There is honestly no proven statistics that you will only be successful in one genre. Though there are people that believe working in one genre will benefit you in the long wrong as mentioned in Michael Cristiano’s article on The Writer’s Path. We have a right as writers to make the decision to follow wherever inspiration finds its way to us. No sense succumbing to writer’s block. Right? 

I’m not here to tell you that you NEED to be writing in multiple genres. Maybe you already are. Or maybe that path isn’t for you. That’s alright. I’m here to discuss the reasons why it’s alright to write in multiple genres.

So you want to write in a genre other than your usual. I’ve been there. I’m doing that as we speak. 

There is some small speck of inspiration gnawing at you to write outside of the genre your used to. Don’t worry. Write on.

The thing about genres is that they are for classification purposes. Readers want to know what genres they like and only want to pick up in that particular genre. But as writers, we aren’t classifications. We are human beings that enjoy the craft of writing.

Write Your Passion Project

You may have been writing in one genre for so long that you want to ignore that spark of an idea outside of your norm. Now, maybe you should try to write that passion project. Even if you never want to publish it or send it to an agent. It’s something that can help build your skill as a writer.

You Can Always Use A Pen Name

If you’re worried about how your work will be perceived because it’s a different genre, use a pen name. There is no shame in writing under a pen name. So pick something that fits within the genre and publish your work. If you already have a pen name, pick another one! 

Mix Your Normal Genre and A New Genre

There is no rule stating that your book can only be one genre. Mix it up! I’ve read some pretty great mash up books that blend well. For example, the Stalking Jack the Ripper series is a wonderful mix of historical and crime fiction. So go ahead and mix up your genres if you find that works for you.

Lastly, Don’t Let Others Tell You What To Write

Always write what you are inspired by. Your work will be more creative and passionate if you write what you want instead of what you’re told. Again, it doesn’t have to be something you publish, but it can be.

Stay true to yourself and write what you want to write. If staying in the same genre works for you, that’s fantastic. But for those of use that want to branch out that’s alright too. As writers we should be supporting each other to the end no matter what project we’re working on. 

Keep on writing! Keep on following your passions!

How do you feel about writing in multiple genres? Do you write in multiple genres? Do you use a pen name? Let’s talk writing in the comments below!

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