My Least Favorite Tropes and Why
And we’re back! It’s great to see y’all again.
Remember how last week we talked about favorite tropes? Well, this week we’re gonna talk about least favorite tropes. In case you missed that post or just want a reminder of what a trope is, you can go read that here.
Onwards and upwards!
My List
Intelligence = Isolation– This is seriously one that gets my goat. (Yes, that phrase is a cliché. Had to use it, though. 😊) In this trope, intelligent people are loners, often socially awkward or afraid, and don’t really have a social life at all. They are isolated from everyone at school, they have no friends, and don’t have much of a relationship with their parents. These characters often turn into the villains of stories, usually cruel and sadistic. This particular trope falls into the cliché category.
Love Triangle– So, I seriously doubt this one needs any explanation. It also falls into the cliché family, and for good reason. Pick up any popular YA novel, and you will probably find a love triangle; Twilight, The Hunger Games, etc. Personally, I don’t get why this particular trope is so popular. Though, I’m not big into romance in stories at all, so… Anyhow, it made it onto the list.
Femme Fatale– For those who aren’t sure, a femme fatale is “a seductive woman who lures men into dangerous or compromising situations, a woman who attracts men by an aura of charm and mystery.” Yet another one that falls deep into the cliché ocean. Usually, this type of person is incredibly easy to see through, and you get mad at the character for not seeing it. I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve seen a character that looks like a femme fatale that is actually a good guy. Seriously, if they took this trope and turned it on its head, that would be so cool.
Corrupt Politician– Along the lines of the previous trope, why do most politicians in stories have to be corrupt? Honestly, why can’t we get more genuinely good guys who are trying to help their constituents rather than deepen their pockets? Granted, I understand that it’s usually a cutthroat arena, and you sometimes have to fight like the others, but can’t we have more of the honest people who stick to precisely what they say and do good and succeed? That might be refreshing every once in a while.
And that has been the latest rant brought to you by me. Sorry for ranting as much as I did, but it’s over now. I hope you enjoyed this list too.
With Blessings,
Nicolle
What are some of your least favorite tropes?