1. Pauline

    Pauline Member

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    Novel High Concept

    Discussion in 'Genre Discussions' started by Pauline, Oct 14, 2016.

    What's everyone's definition of a high concept hook in regards to a novel?
     
  2. Luke Scott

    Luke Scott Member

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    I think character development is the best hook. If a reader is interested in what the protagonist is doing, going through, feeling or experiencing, you have them for the concept of the story (most of the time ;) ).

    This can be achieved very simply. EG:

    She looked up as the shadow cast a contorted shape across the floor.

    The reader is instantly invested in what is happening. Simple. Nothing really "high concept" about this sentence. Just a simple statement of a particular event happening to a woman/girl.

    PS: Take this post with a grain of salt. I am not really sure of what you mean by the term "high concept".
     
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  3. Simpson17866

    Simpson17866 Contributor Contributor

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    If we're going to distinguish "high concept" as a specific type of hook, then I would have to say: saying something about the real world that you feel many real people are wrong about.

    But if that's just a writerly description for hooks in general, then I would have to say: whatever makes the reader want to find out more.
     
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  4. Cave Troll

    Cave Troll It's Coffee O'clock everywhere. Contributor

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    Last edited: Nov 7, 2016
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