What Is Web Novels: Everything You Need to Know
The digital world leads us to learn different ways of reading and enjoying a book. The emergence of web novels is one example of when we take advantage of new technologies. As the digital age has transformed how we read and write, web novels have gained immense popularity, offering a platform for established and aspiring authors to share their stories with a global audience.
So, what is a web novel? As the name suggests, web novels are simply novels published online or on a website. It sometimes comes for free or paid, meaning that readers need to pay or buy coins to read the novel. In this article, we will explore the world of web novels , providing a comprehensive overview of what they are and why they have become a literary phenomenon.
What is A Web Novel?
Web novels, also known as online novels or internet novels, are written works of fiction that are primarily published and consumed on the internet. They encompass a wide range of genres and styles, from romance and fantasy to science fiction and horror. What sets web novels apart is their accessibility, as they are made available to readers online for free or through a subscription model.
These digital novels are typically published on dedicated websites and platforms, where authors release their works chapter by chapter. This episodic format not only keeps readers engaged but also enables authors to receive feedback and make adjustments to their stories as they progress.
Web novels first gained popularity in Asia, particularly in countries like China, South Korea, and Japan. The Chinese web novel industry, in particular, has grown exponentially and has produced several blockbuster adaptations for television and film. Authors like Tang Jia San Shao and Er Gen have become household names in the web novel world.
The Difference of Web Novels and Light Novels
Other than web novels, the world of this book fiction has also flourished with the rise of light novels. The light novel follows a Japanese format that is typically available in paperback. It is published on the internet in serialized chapters and later edited and compiled into a single volume.
The books typically consist of around fifty thousand words and are published in the Japanese bonkobon style which is a paperback A6 size to save cost and space. So, what are the other differences between web novels and light novels?
Serialization
Web novels are typically published in a serial format, with authors releasing chapters or segments of their stories regularly on websites or platforms. Meanwhile, light novels may also be serialized in magazines or online platforms, but they are often published as complete volumes. Readers purchase these volumes as self-contained stories.
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Illustration
There are no illustrations in web novels or sometimes, they just have minimal artwork. The focus is primarily on the text and the story itself, like novels in physical books. Light novels often feature manga-style illustrations that accompany the text. These illustrations help readers visualize the characters and scenes and can be a significant part of the reading experience.
Adaptation
Successful web novels may be adapted into various media forms, including television series, films, and manga. These adaptations can significantly increase the reach of the original story. Light novels themselves are often the source material for anime and manga adaptations. They serve as a bridge between written fiction and visual media.
Writing Style and Length
Web novels may vary in writing quality and style since they are often self-published. They can be shorter or longer, with no strict guidelines regarding length. On the other hand, light novels usually have a more refined and consistent writing style. They tend to be shorter than traditional novels, making them a quicker and easier read.
The Growing Popularity of Web Novels
The popularity of web novels has surged in recent years, especially in Asian countries. It is gradually gaining recognition and a dedicated following in other parts of the world. In South Korea, web novels weren't a significant cultural phenomenon but a variation of a fictional genre or subculture.