SUPER-DUPER IMPORTANT QUESTION

[Bimbanana]

Say…
I’ve been thinking about this for quite a while since i'm still new.

Why is it that when we write Japanese flavoured stories (isekai, shounen, etc) in english, we’re expected to follow traditional English literary rules?
From what I’ve experienced and learned, Japanese prose operates on a very different stylistic framework, structure, pacing, even how emotions and humor are delivered.

So isn’t this a bit like trying to serve japanese food to an english audience, only to be criticized for not using western cooking techniques?
At the same time, it’s not as simple as just saying "you can still deliver a Japanese-style story with English prose".
The two don’t always synergize cleanly into each other.

Here's the why from google:

Spoiler: Google said, not me

The mismatch comes from a "clash of cultures" in how stories are told:

1. The "Standard" Trap

English literary critics often treat Western Prose as the only "correct" way to write. They see the simplicity of Isekai style and mistake it for "bad writing," when it’s actually a stylistic choice meant for speed and accessibility.

2. Narrative Focus

• Western Style: Loves the how. How does the sword feel? How does the wind smell? It’s about immersion through detail.
• Isekai/LN Style: Loves the what. What is the skill? What is the level? What is the punchline? It’s about immersion through concepts and pace.

3. The Comedy Factor

This is where the critics really miss the point. Japanese comedy (Manzai style) relies on:

• Rapid-fire dialogue.
• The "Straight Man" (Tsukkomi) and "Funny Man" (Boke).
• Extreme reactions.

If you try to write a "Tsukkomi" reaction using Michael Crichton’s serious, descriptive style, the joke dies. Comedy needs to be fast; "Classic Literature" is often slow.

So it makes me wonder what an amateur authors should choose for priority?
The story’s original style, or the language it’s written in?

 

[Worthy39]

At Japanese restaurants in America, they "Americanize" the food, it's not real, traditional Japanese food. In the same way, when we make a Japanese style story, we adjust it to suit our country's writing rules and methods, but still clearly Japanese inspired.

 

[GwynLordofTinder]

Say…
I’ve been thinking about this for quite a while since i'm still new.

Why is it that when we write Japanese flavoured stories (isekai, shounen, etc) in english, we’re expected to follow traditional English literary rules?
From what I’ve experienced and learned, Japanese prose operates on a very different stylistic framework, structure, pacing, even how emotions and humor are delivered.

So isn’t this a bit like trying to serve japanese food to an english audience, only to be criticized for not using western cooking techniques?
At the same time, it’s not as simple as just saying "you can still deliver a Japanese-style story with English prose".
The two don’t always synergize cleanly into each other.

Here's the why from google:

Spoiler: Google said, not me

The mismatch comes from a "clash of cultures" in how stories are told:

1. The "Standard" Trap

English literary critics often treat Western Prose as the only "correct" way to write. They see the simplicity of Isekai style and mistake it for "bad writing," when it’s actually a stylistic choice meant for speed and accessibility.

2. Narrative Focus

• Western Style: Loves the how. How does the sword feel? How does the wind smell? It’s about immersion through detail.
• Isekai/LN Style: Loves the what. What is the skill? What is the level? What is the punchline? It’s about immersion through concepts and pace.

3. The Comedy Factor

This is where the critics really miss the point. Japanese comedy (Manzai style) relies on:

• Rapid-fire dialogue.
• The "Straight Man" (Tsukkomi) and "Funny Man" (Boke).
• Extreme reactions.

If you try to write a "Tsukkomi" reaction using Michael Crichton’s serious, descriptive style, the joke dies. Comedy needs to be fast; "Classic Literature" is often slow.

So it makes me wonder what an amateur authors should choose for priority?
The story’s original style, or the language it’s written in?

I'm launching an isekai at the end of the week, but its 100% western style prose. For me, the reason was as simple as this: if I tried to copy Japanese style, without my thoughts actually being organized into a Japanese lexicon, it would look 'fake and gay', as my nephew might say.

 

[strayCat0]

I don't think anyone's expected to conform to English literary rules tbh. Even if there is, it's mostly limited to a community that's mainly dominated by US Americans or British. At least, main site SH isn't like that. You CAN'T really claim anything properly written in English is following English literary rules.

Ultimately, the reason why the 'taste' is distinctly different is because there are certain cultural aspects that can't be imitated unless you're very deep in said culture (Japanese) or you being an actual Japanese. Of course writing style is something anyone can learn, but most people (non-Japanese) who write in 'Japanese LN/WN' are just following the tropes and cliches instead of going for the exact style. At the same time, I think most who are like this aren't following English literary rules at all, they are just picking up anything they encounter. You see people doing Korean WN style while having English YAs, frankenstein wrting style on cultivation stories, their own cultural writing style with Japanese LN aspects, and so on.

Like, you can also ask the same thing about Japanese fantasy stories that have a vaguely (actually obvious) European setting with Lord of the Rings. Which, the answer is obvious: Japanese writers aren't following J. R. R. Tolkien, nor are people there calling for it to be so.

 

[BearlyAlive]

Say…
I’ve been thinking about this for quite a while since i'm still new.

Why is it that when we write Japanese flavoured stories (isekai, shounen, etc) in english, we’re expected to follow traditional English literary rules?
From what I’ve experienced and learned, Japanese prose operates on a very different stylistic framework, structure, pacing, even how emotions and humor are delivered.

So isn’t this a bit like trying to serve japanese food to an english audience, only to be criticized for not using western cooking techniques?
At the same time, it’s not as simple as just saying "you can still deliver a Japanese-style story with English prose".
The two don’t always synergize cleanly into each other.

Here's the why from google:

Spoiler: Google said, not me

The mismatch comes from a "clash of cultures" in how stories are told:

1. The "Standard" Trap

English literary critics often treat Western Prose as the only "correct" way to write. They see the simplicity of Isekai style and mistake it for "bad writing," when it’s actually a stylistic choice meant for speed and accessibility.

2. Narrative Focus

• Western Style: Loves the how. How does the sword feel? How does the wind smell? It’s about immersion through detail.
• Isekai/LN Style: Loves the what. What is the skill? What is the level? What is the punchline? It’s about immersion through concepts and pace.

3. The Comedy Factor

This is where the critics really miss the point. Japanese comedy (Manzai style) relies on:

• Rapid-fire dialogue.
• The "Straight Man" (Tsukkomi) and "Funny Man" (Boke).
• Extreme reactions.

If you try to write a "Tsukkomi" reaction using Michael Crichton’s serious, descriptive style, the joke dies. Comedy needs to be fast; "Classic Literature" is often slow.

So it makes me wonder what an amateur authors should choose for priority?
The story’s original style, or the language it’s written in?

The question doesn't include the differences that come with using the actual languages. Japanese is context-heavy; not only do they write between the lines, they also think that way. So, in a culture where direct implications or descriptors are a hard pass for most, descriptions are expressed through the way someone behaves or speaks instead of describing them.


Also, you're trying to argue for a "writing style" that doesn't really exist. WN/LN style would be the equivalent to "YA style" or "self-published style", which is pretty much a non-descriptor. Since you'd need to condense it down to a target group before you'd actually call it a style. "ScrubHub style smut harem" or "RR style progression fantasy" would be style descriptions, but your current question is more along the lines of "Should we write like Tolkien or more like 'That time I got reincarnated as the used panties of a serial masturbator in another world but is actually the strongest?!' ?"

But the answer to your question is and always should be: Neither. Write the way you like, not the way you think you should.

 

[strayCat0]

The question doesn't include the differences that come with using the actual languages. Japanese is context-heavy; not only do they write between the lines, they also think that way. So, in a culture where direct implications or descriptors are a hard pass for most, descriptions are expressed through the way someone behaves or speaks instead of describing them.


Also, you're trying to argue for a "writing style" that doesn't really exist. WN/LN style would be the equivalent to "YA style" or "self-published style", which is pretty much a non-descriptor. Since you'd need to condense it down to a target group before you'd actually call it a style. "ScrubHub style smut harem" or "RR style progression fantasy" would be style descriptions, but your current question is more along the lines of "Should we write like Tolkien or more like 'That time I got reincarnated as the used panties of a serial masturbator in another world but is actually the strongest?!' ?"

But the answer to your question is and always should be: Neither. Write the way you like, not the way you think you should.

You know, I almost forgot that my account has automatic watch thread, and I thought you were quoting me. But we curiously raised SH, WN/LN, YA, then Tolkien in the almost exact sequence, so now I CAN'T say for sure. Either we need to debate or we're saying the same thing but just not in the same wavelength. I really can't say for sure. But I need a good sleep like right now, so yeah.

 

[BearlyAlive]

You know, I almost forgot that my account has automatic watch thread, and I thought you were quoting me. But we curiously raised SH, WN/LN, YA, then Tolkien in the almost exact sequence, so now I CAN'T say for sure. Either we need to debate or we're saying the same thing but just not in the same wavelength. I really can't say for sure. But I need a good sleep like right now, so yeah.

We totally agree

 

[Makimaam]

In the end, it comes down to who your audience is. SH? Sure, use a JP shounen isekai style novel. Will you get paid? Probably not. Most readers are likely 15–16 yo students looking for instant gratification. And if that’s your target, go for it.

If you’re writing for WN readers, that’s a different meta again. A JP light novel style would probably work there, especially if you can produce content quickly enough to keep earning.

Now RR. There’s a reason RR readers tend to prefer Western style writing—demographics, and they’re more willing to pay for stories that meet their standards. They often want a JP plot wrapped in a “premium” package, or in other words, with the flavor adjusted to match their tastes.

In the end, it’s a matter of taste. If you write for yourself, it doesn’t matter. If you write for an audience, know your audience instead of arguing and trying to go against the norm.

Personally, I find JP shounen-style writing distasteful. But even that is an oversimplification. Some JP light novels are written with genuinely literary quality. It’s just that, much like in a busy lifestyle where workers might grab breakfast from 7/11, JP light novels are often consumed for efficiency.

Cultural differences. Audience differences.

 

[greyblob]

you can write LN style novels and not haveit look like shitty MTL. and if you're writing in english for english readers why would you not conform to english standard puncutation and diction?

the current 'LN' style is caused by lazy tanslators and MTL

 

[PurpleXanmal]

I just want everyone to know, banana skins are yellow. Also, I think it's cultural normalization.

 

[SouthernMaiden]

I think we're underestimating how much Japanese genres like Isekai borrowed from Western lit.

Im reality, they're both the result of cultural exchange between the East and West.

 

[Anonjohn20]

I think we're underestimating how much Japanese genres like Isekai borrowed from Western lit.

Yes. There would be no Sword Art Online (2009) without Tron (1982). No Parallel World (first Isekai ever made, in 1969) without Alice in Wonderland (1965).

 

[CharlesEBrown]

Yes. There would be no Sword Art Online (2009) without Tron (1982). No Parallel World (first Isekai ever made, in 1969) without Alice in Wonderland (1965).

I would argue that A Princess of Mars could be considered the first Isekai - though he "got better" at the end and wasn't dead after all... Though might have been at the VERY end, after talking to his favorite nephew (the person who "published" his "memoirs")

 

[FrenzyWanderer]

Say…
I’ve been thinking about this for quite a while since i'm still new.

Why is it that when we write Japanese flavoured stories (isekai, shounen, etc) in english, we’re expected to follow traditional English literary rules?
From what I’ve experienced and learned, Japanese prose operates on a very different stylistic framework, structure, pacing, even how emotions and humor are delivered.

So isn’t this a bit like trying to serve japanese food to an english audience, only to be criticized for not using western cooking techniques?
At the same time, it’s not as simple as just saying "you can still deliver a Japanese-style story with English prose".
The two don’t always synergize cleanly into each other.

Here's the why from google:

Spoiler: Google said, not me

The mismatch comes from a "clash of cultures" in how stories are told:

1. The "Standard" Trap

English literary critics often treat Western Prose as the only "correct" way to write. They see the simplicity of Isekai style and mistake it for "bad writing," when it’s actually a stylistic choice meant for speed and accessibility.

2. Narrative Focus

• Western Style: Loves the how. How does the sword feel? How does the wind smell? It’s about immersion through detail.
• Isekai/LN Style: Loves the what. What is the skill? What is the level? What is the punchline? It’s about immersion through concepts and pace.

3. The Comedy Factor


This is where the critics really miss the point. Japanese comedy (Manzai style) relies on:

• Rapid-fire dialogue.
• The "Straight Man" (Tsukkomi) and "Funny Man" (Boke).
• Extreme reactions.

If you try to write a "Tsukkomi" reaction using Michael Crichton’s serious, descriptive style, the joke dies. Comedy needs to be fast; "Classic Literature" is often slow.

So it makes me wonder what an amateur authors should choose for priority?
The story’s original style, or the language it’s written in?

Exactly... Jokes die especially in the style I write now, My story started as a parody, and I started using more descriptions. Story is getting vibrant sure!. But half the jokes are dying! Especially punch lines

So I began using some kind of a hybrid style.

Reedited all my chapters (Still have to edit chapter 04 and chapter 05)

I refuse to level up! (Don’t ask about my sister’s opinion on this)

What would any normal person do after they isekai'ed to another world? Well that shouldn't even be a question. Grind up levels, become strong and conquer the world with overpowered cheat abilities. But Ren isn't that kind of 'Normal' What if he conquers the world without levelling up? without...

www.scribblehub.com

 

[FRWriter]

Here's the why from google:

Not Google... from the AI function (Gemini) ;) Please be a little clearer about that.

Anyway:

There is no rule barring you from writing a complete JP-style story, but you'll notice one thing. Your story will fail, and you won't get many readers. There is a good reason why Light Novels have totally failed in the West, despite Anime and Manga being INCREDIBLY successful.

Light Novels and JP-style modern writing (following JP rules) are just unappealing to a global audience.

I'd describe JP writing as:

- boring
- generic
- repetitive
- unfocused
- confusing
- pretentious

While Mangas often create fantastic worlds we can only dream of, LN's are usually stiff, and I haven't read any ones I've liked. Translation might be a part of it, but the argument is still true. People DO NOT ENJOY reading them.

But hey, that's just my opinion.

It all depends on YOU.

If you love the JP style, great! Go for it, but you should be aware that the global majority has rejected JP writing for a reason.

 

[AliceMoonvale]

I think we're underestimating how much Japanese genres like Isekai borrowed from Western lit.

Im reality, they're both the result of cultural exchange between the East and West.

They were totally inspired by Back to the Future.

 

[FRWriter]

I believe Japanese stories are more inspired by classical Western stories, like Tolkien, because they almost always feature dwarfs, elves, orcs, dragons, swords, shields, and magic.

They rely less on Japanese history and mythology than they rely on the classical Western Fantasy genre.

Of course, as always, there is always a gimmick involved, and things are less serious and unambitious.

 

[CharlesEBrown]

I believe Japanese stories are more inspired by classical Western stories, like Tolkien, because they almost always feature dwarfs, elves, orcs, dragons, swords, shields, and magic.

They rely less on Japanese history and mythology than they rely on the classical Western Fantasy genre.

Of course, as always, there is always a gimmick involved, and things are less serious and unambitious.

One of the most successful Japanese story franchises, Dragonball, was directly inspired by Chinese literature (Into the West, the story of Sun-Wukong, the Monkey King; Sun-Wukong translates into Japanese as "Son Goku")

 

[FRWriter]

One of the most successful Japanese story franchises, Dragonball, was directly inspired by Chinese literature (Into the West, the story of Sun-Wukong, the Monkey King; Sun-Wukong translates into Japanese as "Son Goku")

Of course, I agree, but it's clearly the minority. Obviously, among thousands of stories, you'll always find that one that doesn't fit. In this case, I believe, the majority is more inspired by Western genres.

Also, Dragon Ball features A LOT of Sci-Fi elements, which are also inspired by Western stories. Things like Cyborgs, Space-travel, and weaponry are taken from the West.

The large amount of Isekai stories are almost all 100% Western with only a few Japanese elements (like Katanas, spirits, folklore, food).

 

[CharlesEBrown]

Of course, I agree, but it's clearly the minority. Obviously, among thousands of stories, you'll always find that one that doesn't fit. In this case, I believe, the majority is more inspired by Western genres.

Also, Dragon Ball features A LOT of Sci-Fi elements, which are also inspired by Western stories. Things like Cyborgs, Space-travel, and weaponry are taken from the West.

The large amount of Isekai stories are almost all 100% Western with only a few Japanese elements (like Katanas, spirits, folklore, food).

Also a lot of European titles, unless the translation software is forcing things. Most of the time, they even use the terms of nobility more accurately than a lot of Western writers (was surprised when one correctly explained the difference between a Duke and a Baron - but then did get Baronet wrong, so is not perfect...)