All subgenres of fiction share three fundamental narrative elements:
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Characters: Characters are essential to any narrative, serving as the agents through which the story unfolds. They can vary widely in complexity, role, and development but are crucial for driving the plot and engaging the reader emotionally.
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Plot: The plot is the sequence of events that make up the story. It encompasses the conflict, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. Regardless of the subgenre, a coherent plot structure is necessary to keep the narrative engaging and maintain reader interest.
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Setting: The setting refers to the time and place in which the story occurs. This element establishes the context for the characters and the events of the plot. It can significantly influence the mood, theme, and character development, playing a crucial role in immersing readers in the fictional world.
Together, these elements create a structured narrative that allows subgenres to explore various themes, styles, and storytelling techniques while remaining rooted in these foundational aspects.