What makes good quality writing good?

by Chiara
(Toronto)

QUESTION

Many people love Danielle Steele, but others thumb their nose and consider it lower quality writing.

What is the difference between literary quality writing, and blockbuster, ie. Danielle Steele's type of writing?

I want to write a literary novel, and so far I have used varying styles, but I wonder where my varying styles sit, and how I can best fine tune during my re-write.

ANSWER

Chiara, the main difference between literary texts and popular fiction is the diction. Literary writers pay careful attention to the language they use and aim to cut out cliches, unintentional repetition, excess adverbs, participial phrases, etc. The goal is to keep the language fresh and original. Plots should also feel fresh and should be unpredictable. Literary fiction may use literary allusions, and often focuses on characterization, where genre fiction often makes plot primary.

The best stories, regardless of genre, contain both a strong, original plot that pulls readers through the work, AND fresh diction.