Coming out Narratives
When, How, and if you should Write Them
A coming out narrative is a story about a queer character or queer characters, where at least one of these main characters is in the closet and, over the course of the story, comes out. Often, when a queer character appears in mainstream media, their story involves some form of “coming out.” This is also a common trope in M/M (gay/queer male) romance novels; one of the primary barriers to the characters’ happiness is the fact that one or both of them is closeted, and a source of tension in the story is the backlash/homophobia they might face if they came out.
I understand why coming out narratives are popular. They can be extremely personal, emotional, and moving. They are relatable for many of us, especially queer readers. They offer a great source of story tension and opportunities for character development.
They’re also risky.
