Coming of Age Stories: Why Representation Matters

I remember reading coming of age stories when I was younger. I also watched plenty of movies that all encompassed the same theme—young adults finding their way. 

And, I remember how those books and films made me feel. They made me feel heard, understood, and represented. I was grateful that someone had written a piece—a script—that I could identify with. And, while I’m well into my 30’s now—those pieces of art have stuck with me. 

So, when I decided to write my first published short story—I knew that I needed to support my intended audience. I knew that I needed to add elements to the story that were—well, relatable. 

By the way, if you’re interested in reading my first free published short story, Vintage, please click here.

And, while I’m currently in the editing process of another short story and a novel—they all encompass the same themes—young adults learning life lessons and finding out paths in life.

Most importantly—each and every plot represents the audience in some way. While writing, I always make sure to include various societal issues, genders, sexualities—and the lessons that these characters learn vary from work to work. Because life imitates art—I want my audience to feel seen and heard. And also, I want my work to resonate with my readers. If I can reach anyone—I feel like I’ve completed a good story.  

So, whether you also write or are in the process of writing coming-of-age stories, I wanted to provide a little insight on how to be inclusive in your writing. Of course, your work is your work—your writing is your writing—and your plots and character development are personal. These are just general guidelines that I use.

Know Your Audience. Research.

I’ve stated it before—I’m a millennial. A forward-thinking millennial woman. And, I want my works to relate to everyone. Or, mostly everyone. 

So, whether you’re a millennial or not—our age bracket deals with a lot of self-discovery. Whether it’s graduating from college—budgeting for your first apartment—or realizing you’re possibly genderqueer—lessons are constantly learned. And, internal battles are constantly fought—and won. 

And, sure, life lessons are learned throughout life—at any age. But, my fiction is focused on millennial coming-of-age—so I relate these self-discoveries to young adults. Which, in my works, are protagonists anywhere between early twenties to early thirties. 

So, where does research come in? How do you research your audience—and incorporate these aspects into your writing?

Well, it’s easier said than done—but it involves brainstorming. Brainstorming real issues that your audience is facing. And, then, it involves a little introspection. That is, how would you want this issue and work of fiction to be presented to—you? How would you want to be represented? Seen? Heard?

And then, it involves writing the story. Editing. And ultimately, publishing. By the way, I’ve written a post on free writing—which explains my writing technique a little better. Also, if you need strategies in overcoming writer’s block, this post may help you. 

And, since writing is a subjective art form—the piece has to ultimately move you. The issues that your audience faces—have to be issues that you want to write about. To put it simply—you have to choose what to write about and how to tell the story. But, if you need ideas—I am always here to help. I’m still learning as well.

Respect Your Audience.

Often, representing characters in fiction—may involve writing about underrepresented individuals in society. And with that—comes not only understanding but also comes respect. So, be careful using overly stereotypical language. Your audience wants to feel represented—not judged. 

I’d like to end this post by saying—the writing process is definitely a personal experience. I’m still learning how to perfect my writing skills—sharing what I’ve learned with you all—and I will continue to connect with other writers. So, I hope that my advice—personal viewpoints on writing coming-of-age stories—and overall content resonates with you in some way. I welcome feedback, advice, and overall critiques of my work and blog posts. So, please leave comments below. Or contact me at, indiegrayauthor@gmail.com.