 Mystery: October 17, 2012 Issue [#5315] |
  Mystery
This week: Mystery & Thriller~What's the Difference Edited by: Kate - Writing & Reading  
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"All that I see or seem is but a dream within a dream"
Edgar Alan Poe
Welcome to this week's edition of the Mystery Newsletter. A mystery by nature is a question in search of an answer - a puzzle! And when we uncover the answer to the question, effectively solving the puzzle moments before the writer gives us the solution, follow clues tactile and cerebral, the momentary satisfaction is sublime! And we enjoy the thrill of the search, have fun along the way. |
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Greetings, Fellow Sleuths ~
Mystery or Thriller ?
What's the Difference, Anyway?
It's a question more and more writers - and readers - of mystery ask. Let's explore the difference ~ and some similarities.
The terms 'mystery' and 'thriller' are often used interchangeably to describe the same book, story, or poem; perhaps to entice a target market, or maybe just because it has elements of suspense (which both do). But, after reading and enjoying both, I hold with the premise that they are two distinct genres of writing, each with its own identifying features.
Consider Agatha Christie, the mistress of mystery. Then recall Lawrence Bloch, creating such thrillers as Psycho, with a dark mystery to solve.
Both are writers of mystery. If you read them, you will find some distinctive characteristics between the two. I'll share with you my exploration, and what I think some of the key features are, based on reading, and critiques.
 A mystery is a puzzle; while a thriller is an event or terror to be resolved.
A mystery is cerebral - thinking solves the puzzle, by finding the clues planted along the way. A thriller is driven by feelings and instinct, as the characters (and reader) react to surprises.
In a mystery, the protagonist - and reader - seek clues. In a thriller, each reacts to surprises.
In a mystery, the reader identifies with the sleuth/detective committed to solving the puzzle. In a thriller, the reader gets into the mind of a victim of circumstance, trying to resolve or change an event certain.
In a mystery, the protagonist uses skills he/she has to solve the puzzle, uncovering clues along the way. In a thriller, the protagonist has to adapt to the situation in order to survive the unfolding events caused by outside forces.
In a mystery, the main characters and the mystery itself are introduced in the first pages with action. In a thriller, the characters (sometimes the true main character) appear as the story unfolds, and the layers of the event unravel.
In a mystery, red herrings mislead the protagonist; in a thriller, false friends and foes alike betray him; and trust is tested.
In a mystery, clues are planted, alluded to but not overt. In a thriller, the information the protagonist needs is provided up front as obstacles to overcome or learn to use against others.
In a mystery, your reader will be one step behind your sleuth in the investigation. In a thriller, your reader sees the action and knows what's coming in advance (or at least has a good idea), enticed by the depth of the presentation.
A mystery has a twist at the end, where the final clues are uncovered and the puzzle is solved. A thriller has surprises, including often a surprise ending that evolves in front of our eyes, without a prior clue.
In a mystery, the ending satisfies the intellect (of your reader and your sleuth); while in a thriller, the ending offers both emotional satisfaction.
So, considering what we've explored above, both are great reads and a fun challenge to write in prose and verse. If you agree or disagree, or have additional thoughts about the differences (or similarities, for that matter), chime in.
Until then, keep writing, and reading
Kate
Kate - Writing & Reading
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I offer for your reading (and reviewing) pleasure, mystery and thrillers ~ see how each is different, and how they are alike; how does each engage you as the sleuthing writer? Then, if you've a story with a twist at the ending (mystery) or puzzling a suspenseful event (thriller), engage your own mysterious pen 
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Thank you for this brief respite in your virtual home.
I invite you to share with us a mystery or thriller you enjoyed reading, or writing or, if you think they can be effectively combined, have you one to share with our readers. Would you call it a mystery or a thriller? Remember, 'thrilling mystery' is not a genre (yet).
Until we next meet,
Write On
Kate
Kate - Writing & Reading
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