How to Write a Novel That Addresses Social Justice—But Make It a Rom-Com
When I started writing Game On, my gamer rom-com, I knew the story would open with my heroine, Samara, calling out problematic content in the flagship game of the hero, Aron. While she wouldn’t call herself a social justice warrior, she has beliefs that she holds fast to, and is not afraid to speak her truth—and bring receipts. Given that, I knew it would be a delicate balance to address social justice issues while crafting a story that’s supposed to be fun and romantic. Here’s how I worked it out.
First, choose your social issue with care and compassion. For Game On, I of course knew that my Black female main character is an avid gamer. I also knew from my own witness experience, social media, and reading articles that there are negative situations that Black and female gamers can face in the larger gaming community. If you’re not aware of this and other social issues, or you need more information on the topic you want to write about, expand your social circle to include members of marginalized communities. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for an interview for research.
Second, make social justice part of the story, not the story. For Samara, calling out inequities in gaming is her calling and what her alter-ego is known for. Her day job is DEIA consulting. These things are part of who Samara is but not all that she is. She’s also a daughter, a gamer, and a best friend. All of these aspects are explored during the course of the story. Could it be a complete book without the social justice issues? Doubtful, but it wouldn’t make sense, just as it wouldn’t be a rom-com if I took the romance out.
Third, layer the issue in instead of pouring it on. Lasagna is known for its layers of deliciousness. You don’t just dump everything in and hope for the best. The same is true for social issues. With a basis in the classic three-act story structure, I used Samara’s call to action and Aron’s reaction as the Inciting Incident to set up the story and their first meeting. Dealing with those social issues and impacts then drive the emotional arc of the story, underpinning the Midpoint of the story as their relationship hits a major speedbump.
Fourth, don’t forget that you’re supposed to be writing a rom-com, which means you can’t forget the funny. Writing about social justice issues can be a weighty process, especially when you give it the consideration it deserves. Just like your lasagna shouldn’t be all pasta, your story shouldn’t be all issues. Your characters aren’t one-trick ponies either. Aron’s a logical person and dealing with his emotions flusters him in amusing ways. Samara, used to showing receipts to internet trolls, is full of snarky humor and lets it all out with her friends. Family members can also provide a humor break.
Finally, this story dealing with social justice is not only a comedy, it’s a romance. That means a happy ending is not only expected, it’s also guaranteed. Issues are solved, the day is won. Love wins and justice is served to the bad guy with a thick, steaming side of snark. And really, isn’t that the best way to end a story?
Check out Seressia Glass’ Game On here:
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