Sabrina Tayeh

Shaping the Future of Literature in the Digital Age

As a new generation arises in literature, our voices are more prominent than ever. Living in the digital age the constant question of what will work for us, is always afloat. The emergence of a new generation in the literature world brings with it a unique set of voices and perspectives, amplified by the digital age. Unlike previous generations that may have been more inclined to embrace literary classics, the current generation often grapples with questions about what will resonate with them in a rapidly changing world. In the digital age, the way literature is created, consumed, and shared has undergone a transformative shift. The accessibility of information allows new voices to find their audience easily. Social media platforms, blogs, and online publications provide a space for diverse narratives and perspectives to thrive and be seen. With this, we see the creation of Wattpad.

Wattpad is an online platform that serves as a space for writers worldwide. Wattpad allows writers to showcase their creativity without traditional publishing constraints. It emphasizes interactivity, enabling readers to engage with authors and contribute to the development of narratives. Wattpad hosts a diverse array of genres and themes, catering to niche interests and offering a platform for emerging voices. With its serialized storytelling format and adaptability to various media, Wattpad reflects the evolving preferences of this generation. As a result, it not only provides a unique reading experience but also serves as a launching pad for new literary talents and contributes to the dynamic intersection of literature and digital culture. This is what it was created for anyway. The use of Wattpad has become less stagnant, It is used to explore more niche references and storylines that are authentic to this generation.  

Although this sounds great in theory, admitting to others that you are a Wattpad reader or writer is seemingly embarrassing. There is a prevailing stigma associated with being a reader or writer on the platform. This stigma often stems from the perception that Wattpad is synonymous with amateur or unpolished writing. This means that readers may encounter works that lack the refinement found in professionally published literature. This has contributed to the reluctance of some individuals to openly admit their involvement with Wattpad, fearing judgment or dismissal of their literary preferences.

What creates this stigma is that a significant portion of its content falls is explicit. The majority of the content falls within the romance genre, and within that category, there is a subgenre that includes explicit or adult content. Some writers on Wattpad choose to explore themes of romance and intimacy, creating stories that contain explicit scenes or are focused on sexual relationships. This aspect of Wattpad's content has contributed to the platform being associated, in some circles, with stories that are more focused on sensuality and sexual content. Some users visit Wattpad specifically for this type of content, as it caters to a readership interested in romance narratives with mature themes. In fact, this is what Wattpad is now known for.

Wattpad being known for romance and sexual stories is not an issue, it is the style of writing that is being adapted from these stories that is creating a problem in the literary world.  A great example of this is the top-selling author Colleen Hoover. Hoover published her first book on Wattpad in 2011, and now has 26 published books along with a movie adaptation of her most famous book, “It Ends With Us”. Colleen Hoover is a great example of how Wattpad can help a writer's career. Along with a strong fanbase, Hoover deals with a great deal of hate. Readers are complaining that there is no deeper meaning in her books and there is no more to read than it at face value. Readers call her writing “Wattpad writing”. Again, we discover that Wattpad is used as a negative connotation for readers and writers. What is Wattpad writing and why is the term Detrimental to Colleen Hoover? Wattpad writing has many narratives on the platform that are accused of lacking originality, relying on clichéd plotlines, character archetypes, and predictable twists. A notable characteristic of Wattpad writing is the prevalence of hyper-realistic drama. Stories often unfold in a heightened reality, emphasizing intense emotions, sensational conflicts, and exaggerated scenarios. While drama can be an engaging element in storytelling, the excessive use of it without nuanced exploration may contribute to a lack of substance and depth in the narratives. Readers complain that all of Colleen Hoover's books have the same format with the same drama, just like all the other stories on Wattpad. Wattpad writing, particularly in the drama genre, is criticized for its shallow exploration of themes. Stories may prioritize surface-level emotional intensity over delving into complex issues or offering meaningful commentary. This limitation can result in narratives that fail to provide readers with a deeper understanding of human experiences or societal issues.

This being said Colleen Hoover is very successful today with her books. Readers are enjoying this hyperrealistic fiction genre. many even say that her writing style helps them get back into reading.  Many readers appreciate the emotional depth of Hoover's books. She delves into themes of love, loss, and personal growth, creating stories that elicit a strong emotional response from her audience. The relatable and authentic portrayal of emotions allows readers to connect with the characters on a profound level. Readers appreciate the depth and authenticity of her characters, making it easier for them to invest in the protagonists' journeys and growth throughout the story. While romance is a common thread in Hoover's work, she explores a variety of themes in her books. Whether it's issues of mental health, family dynamics, or personal redemption, Hoover's willingness to address diverse and often complex themes adds layers to her storytelling.  Hoover employs a writing style that is accessible and easy to read. Her prose is engaging, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the story without feeling overwhelmed. This accessibility contributes to the broad appeal of her books.

Hoover’s Success in this genre has picked up the publishing industry's attention and realized that readers and the new digital error have affected the genres that this generation is interested in. Hyper-realistic fiction is increasingly popular. with this genre comes the term “Wattpad writing” and now publishers are finding many writers and Publishing their books through Wattpad. Hyper-realistic fiction, characterized by its intense emotional exploration and lifelike portrayals of characters and situations, has become increasingly popular. Readers are drawn to stories that mirror the complexities of real-life experiences, and Hoover's success in this genre exemplifies the demand for narratives that feel authentic and emotionally charged. Publishers are increasingly scouting Wattpad for emerging talents and stories that have garnered significant reader engagement. Successful examples, such as Anna Todd's "After," which originated on Wattpad and later secured a traditional publishing deal, showcase how the platform can serve as a launchpad for new authors, proving that Wattpad writing can translate into

mainstream success.

Wattpad's format, with its serialized and interactive nature, aligns well with the preferences of readers in the digital era. Additionally, the platform's adaptability to various media, such as film and television adaptations, further demonstrates its influence on the broader entertainment industry. Publishers are recognizing the potential for cross-platform success for stories that gain traction on Wattpad. This phenomenon challenges existing literary norms, suggesting that the preferences of the new digital era have reshaped the genres that resonate with this generation. As Wattpad stories transition to traditional books, authors often experience a significant expansion of their readership and recognition. However, this transition is not without challenges. The pressure to modify the story according to a publisher's preferences can be seen as compromising the originality and creativity of the author. Furthermore, the increased literary standards and critical reviews associated with traditional publishing can create additional stress for authors who initially thrived in the more supportive and collaborative environment of Wattpad.

The transformation of storytelling and writing practices on Wattpad has not only shaped the creative process but has also influenced the relationship between authors and their readers. One of the notable shifts is the serialization of stories, a departure from the traditional model where authors typically complete their entire manuscript before publication. Wattpad authors release chapters incrementally, allowing for real-time interaction with their audience. The real-time feedback loop created by reader comments and messages is a key aspect of Wattpad's impact. This immediate connection empowers authors to make revisions, incorporate suggestions, and even pivot the narrative direction based on reader responses. This level of collaboration between authors and readers fosters a unique and dynamic writing environment, making the storytelling process more interactive and responsive to evolving tastes. The multimedia elements integrated into Wattpad stories, such as images, videos, and hyperlinks, contribute to a more immersive reading experience. Traditional books seldom include these interactive features, and their absence in the traditional publishing landscape highlights how digital platforms like Wattpad have expanded the possibilities of storytelling beyond the printed page.

Wattpad's openness to diverse genres and themes has encouraged authors to experiment with unconventional styles and topics. The platform's global reach has made writers more aware of the international audience, leading to the inclusion of culturally diverse characters and settings. This inclusivity contributes to a richer and more varied literary landscape, reflecting a global readership with diverse preferences and perspectives. The platform's analytics and trending sections also play a role in shaping content. Wattpad offers authors insights into popular genres and themes, influencing writers to align their work with prevalent interests to capture a broader readership. This data-driven approach to storytelling represents a departure from the traditional reliance on intuition and market trends, showcasing how digital platforms leverage data to inform content creation and distribution.

Another issue Wattpad has been facing is the issue of plagiarism on Wattpad has been a point of contention, with instances where users have been found copying and publishing content from other authors without proper attribution. This has raised concerns not only about the lack of originality but also about the potential harm to creators who invest time and effort into producing their work. Copyright infringement has been a recurring challenge for Wattpad. The platform has faced legal issues related to users violating copyright laws by sharing and distributing content without the necessary permissions. These copyright concerns have prompted discussions about the responsibility of Wattpad to ensure that the rights of content creators are protected and respected. The hosting of mature and explicit content has also been a source of criticism. While Wattpad allows for a diverse range of stories, including those with adult themes, the perceived lack of stringent content guidelines has led to debates about whether the platform provides adequate warnings and restrictions to safeguard younger or more sensitive readers.

The emergence of a new generation in literature, marked by the profound impact of the digital age, has redefined the way stories are created, consumed, and shared. Wattpad, as a representative platform of this literary evolution, has both played a pivotal role in amplifying diverse voices and faced challenges that have contributed to the shaping of contemporary storytelling. Wattpad's success stories, such as Colleen Hoover's journey from online serialization to mainstream publishing success, demonstrate the platform's influence on the literary landscape. The rise of hyper-realistic fiction, often labeled as "Wattpad writing," reflects the changing preferences of readers in the digital era. Publishers are increasingly recognizing Wattpad as a breeding ground for emerging talents, challenging traditional literary norms and paving the way for cross-platform success. However, this transformation is not without its hurdles. The stigma associated with Wattpad, rooted in perceptions of amateurism and explicit content, reveals the need for a broader understanding and acceptance of diverse storytelling styles. The platform's open approach to genres and themes has led to experimentation, inclusivity, and a more global literary landscape. Still, issues like plagiarism and copyright infringement pose significant challenges, raising questions about the responsibility of digital platforms to protect the rights of content creators. Wattpad's journey reflects the dynamic intersection of literature and the digital age. It symbolizes the democratization of storytelling, where diverse voices find expression and unconventional styles thrive.

References

• Team, Internet Matters. “What Is Wattpad? A Breakdown for Parents.” Internet Matters, 29 Oct. 2023, www.internetmatters.org/hub/news-blogs/what-is-wattpad-a-breakdown-for-parents/.
• “Why Is 90% of Wattpad Unreadable Garbage, and Where Else Could I Go to Get Better Feedback?” Reddit, www.reddit.com/r/writing/comments/bo97t6/why_is_90_of_wattpad_unreadable_garbage_and_where/. Accessed 6 Dec. 2023.
• Churchward, Katie. “Why I Will Never Support Colleen Hoover.” Medium, ILLUMINATION, 12 Jan. 2023, medium.com/illumination/why-i-will-never-support-colleen-hoover-b2841ad70334.
• Rodriguez, Mirna. “Next Gen Favorites: Wattpad.” The Verge, The Verge, 26 July 2021, www.theverge.com/22585864/wattpad-fanfiction-platform-library-writing.