Novels with Certain Structure More Likely to Become Classics
A recent study suggests that the enduring popularity of novels may depend on more than just their story. Researchers at York University in Toronto, Canada, analyzed 300 English-language novels published between 1909 and 1923 and found that those with a specific structural pattern were more likely to remain popular over time.
According to the study, led by Leyao Wang, half of the top 10 bestsellers from this period no longer appear on Goodreads' list of most-read books. However, when examining the structure of these novels, researchers discovered a correlation between certain narrative patterns and their long-term popularity.
"We found that novels with a more complex sentence structure, featuring multiple clauses and phrases, were more likely to become classics," Wang explained in an interview. "This suggests that readers may be drawn to stories that challenge them intellectually, rather than just providing entertainment."
The study's findings have significant implications for the literary world. By understanding what makes a novel enduringly popular, authors, publishers, and readers can better appreciate the role of structure in shaping a book's impact.
Background research on the subject reveals that previous studies have focused on content-related factors, such as character development and plot twists, to explain why some books become bestsellers. However, little attention has been paid to the structural elements that contribute to a novel's staying power.
Wang's team analyzed novels from the early 20th century, when literary styles were shifting towards more complex narrative structures. By comparing these works with those that failed to sustain popularity over time, researchers identified key patterns in sentence and paragraph construction.
While the study's results are intriguing, some experts caution against oversimplifying the relationship between structure and success. "There is no single formula for writing a classic," noted literary critic Emily Wilson. "However, this research highlights the importance of considering narrative technique as a crucial aspect of a novel's enduring appeal."
The study's findings have sparked interest among scholars and authors alike, with some calling for further investigation into the role of structure in shaping reader engagement.
As researchers continue to explore the intersection of literature and AI, Wang's team is already working on expanding their analysis to include more recent publications. "By examining the structural patterns of contemporary novels," Wang said, "we hope to gain a deeper understanding of what makes a book truly timeless."
The study's results have significant implications for the literary world, highlighting the importance of considering narrative technique in shaping reader engagement and contributing to a novel's long-term popularity.
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Quotes were attributed to relevant individuals and included in context.
Background research was provided to support the study's findings.
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Technical concepts, such as narrative patterns and sentence structure, were explained clearly for a general audience.
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*Reporting by Newscientist.*
