How to Get Away with Using Cliches in Writing Fiction and Poetry

The Art of the Cliche

As a writer, I’ve often grappled with the challenge of cliches in my writing. And I mean often. They’re those overused phrases or ideas that can make writing feel uninspired, but they also have their place and purpose.

So, how can you use cliches effectively without falling into the trap of mundane writing? In this blog post, I’ll share some insights and strategies on how to get away with using cliches in both fiction and poetry, ensuring they enhance rather than detract from your work.

What Exactly Are Cliches?

Before diving into how to use cliches effectively, let’s define what they are. Cliches are phrases, ideas, or expressions that have become so overused that they’ve lost their original impact. They often stem from common experiences or observations and can range from trite sayings like “time heals all wounds” to predictable plot devices.

In fiction, cliches might appear as predictable character types or storylines. In poetry, they could manifest as worn-out metaphors or imagery. While cliches can feel lazy, they don’t have to be if handled thoughtfully!

Why Use Cliches in Writing at All?

It might seem counterintuitive to use clichés if they’re often criticized, but there are reasons why they can be useful:

Familiarity: Cliches can create a sense of familiarity and comfort for readers. They tap into common experiences or emotions, making your writing instantly relatable.

Subversion: By using a cliché and then twisting it in an unexpected way, you can create surprise and intrigue. This technique can play with reader expectations and add depth to your writing.

Irony and Humor: Cliches can be used ironically or humorously. When employed with a knowing wink, they can enhance the tone and provide a layer of self-awareness in your work.

How Can You Use Cliches Effectively in Fiction?

In fiction, cliches often appear in character archetypes, plot devices, or dialogue. Here’s how to use them creatively:

Subvert Expectations

Take a familiar cliché and give it a fresh twist. For example, if you’re using the “reluctant hero” trope, you might subvert it by making the hero uncharacteristically eager or reluctant for reasons that add depth to their character.

Example: Instead of a hero who “reluctantly accepts their destiny,” consider a protagonist who is overly enthusiastic about their role but faces unexpected challenges that test their resolve.

Add Depth to Characters

Use cliches as a starting point to explore deeper character traits. If your character embodies the “mad scientist” archetype, delve into their backstory and motivations to make them more nuanced and believable.

Example: A mad scientist who appears eccentric and obsessed might be driven by a personal tragedy or a quest for redemption, adding layers to their character.

Use Metafictional Commentary

Have characters comment on or acknowledge the cliches they’re involved in. This self-awareness can add a layer of sophistication and humor to your narrative.

Example: Characters in a romantic comedy might joke about their “meet-cute” moments, acknowledging the cliché while also playing with it.

How Can You Use Cliches Effectively in Poetry?

In poetry, cliches often appear in metaphors, similes, or imagery. Here’s how to use them creatively:

Transform Common Imagery

Take a clichéd image or metaphor and give it a new twist. By changing its context or combining it with unexpected elements, you can make it fresh and original.

Example: Instead of using the clichéd “broken heart,” explore the metaphor of a heart that’s “weathered like an old tree,” adding unique imagery and depth.

Play with Language

Experiment with the language surrounding cliches. By altering the phrasing or combining cliches in surprising ways, you can create striking and memorable lines.

Example: Combine two cliches like “raining cats and dogs” and “a silver lining” into a new phrase: “A silver lining through the cats and dogs of a storm.”

Use Cliches for Emotional Impact

When used deliberately, cliches can evoke strong emotions and connect with readers on a personal level. Be mindful of the impact you want to achieve and use cliches sparingly for maximum effect.

Example: In a poem about loss, using the cliché “time heals all wounds” can underscore the theme of healing, but consider pairing it with original imagery to enhance its impact.

Tips for Avoiding Cliches in Writing

While knowing how to use cliches effectively is valuable, avoiding them altogether can also be beneficial. Here are some tips for steering clear of cliches:

Be Specific: Instead of relying on generic phrases, use specific details and imagery that reflect your unique perspective. This adds originality and depth to your writing.

Engage in Fresh Thinking: Challenge yourself to think beyond common phrases and ideas. Explore new ways to express emotions or describe experiences.

Revise and Refine: During the editing process, look for cliches and replace them with more original language. Revising allows you to refine your writing and ensure it remains engaging and fresh.

How Can You Balance Cliches with Originality?

Using cliches doesn’t mean abandoning originality. Instead, it’s about striking a balance:

Blend Old and New: Combine familiar elements with new perspectives. This can create a dynamic interplay between the expected and the innovative.

Infuse Personal Voice: Your unique voice and perspective can transform cliches into something fresh. Infuse your writing with your individuality and creativity.

Experiment with Form and Structure: Play with poetic forms and narrative structures to give familiar ideas a new context. Experimenting with different approaches can lead to innovative uses of cliches.

What’s Next for Enhancing Your Writing?

Understanding how to use cliches effectively and knowing when to avoid them can enhance your writing across genres. By employing these strategies, you can make cliches work to your advantage and ensure your work remains engaging and original.

For those looking to refine their craft further, working with a publisher that understands the nuances of writing can be invaluable. Atmosphere Press, an author-centric hybrid publisher, offers support and guidance for writers seeking to elevate their work. They recognize the importance of balancing familiar elements with originality, helping authors craft compelling and fresh narratives.

For additional insights into writing techniques and ways to enhance your creativity, consider exploring topics like using metaphors, creating memorable characters, and innovative storytelling methods. These areas can provide further inspiration and tools for advancing your writing skills.

Erin K. Larson-Burnett, Production Manager at Atmosphere Press (submit your manuscript here!), is a born-and-raised Southerner currently living in Katy, Texas, with her husband and their small domestic zoo. She is an avid ink drinker who lives and breathes books—during the day, she works remotely with authors around the world, honing and perfecting books published through Atmosphere Press. By night, she crafts her own stories…or at least tries to. The Bear & the Rose is her debut novel.