Most (if not all) of my previous short stories, novels and novellas have been genre works. For the longer works, I've more or less stuck to the 3 Act/ Aristotle's incline structure. However, my newest work is a lot different. I'm hesitant to class it is 'literary', since it definitely does have a plot and isn't completely introspective, but it certainly doesn't feel like my previous projects. For a work like this, should I still try stick to three act structure? Or do I have a bit more wiggle room plot wise?
I think that a story that defies three act structure (and pulls it off) is always a very refreshing read. My background is in theatre, which (as I'm sure you know) is where this structure has its origins, and I'm always more impressed with plays that do a lot of work to make sure the characters are what shine. I say throw structure out the window, even if it is only as an experiment!
