Exploring Overused Tropes in Literature and Cinema: When Familiarity Breeds Love
When Karl Marx said, “Habit is a powerful force, when it begets habits which no one can live without, as is the case with eating, it becomes a second nature,” he could have been referring to overused tropes and clichés in literature and cinema. Familiarity with certain narrative devices often breeds love, even when they are criticized for lacking originality or depth.
The Load-Up Montage: A Delightful Cliché
Think of the load-up montage in action films. A trope that almost always appears in Edgar Wright's movies, it glorifies the art of weapon usage without any subtlety and is so overused it has become almost satirical. Yet, there is an undeniable charm to it. It is a fun, mindless escape that allows the audience to suspend their disbelief and enjoy the ride, something modern action blockbusters often shy away from. This is the power of familiar tropes—they provide a comfort for the viewer, a sense of knowing the script even before it is written.
The 'White Hat Versus Black Hat' Cliché
The ‘white hat versus black hat’ dichotomy is another overused trope that can often feel too simplistic. There is no room for nuance in this narrative, where great characters are simply good and bad characters are evil. However, this trope can still be effective if used for its intended purpose of providing clear moral lessons. Despite its flaws, it serves a specific function in storytelling and should not be dismissed outright, especially in genres where the line between good and evil is blurred.
The Field Trip to Character's House
Imagine a field trip to a character's house, only to find out that the character lives in a place recognized by everyone, while the rest of the class is oblivious. This is a classic trope in literature and cinema, often accompanied by comedic moments. It's a trope that doesn't need to be eradicated; instead, it can be used for humor and character development. Whether it’s Harry Potter’s hidden wizard life or a hero in a superhero film, these moments offer a source of amusement and a way to reveal the character's true nature.
When Do Tropes Become Stale?
There is a common belief that any phrase or narrative device that has been used repeatedly has become “stale.” However, this is not always the case. Many tropes and clichés have stood the test of time because they ring true despite their familiarity. The saying “the proof is in the pudding” is a perfect example of this. Just as we cannot always depend on what the chef tells us, we must sample and judge for ourselves. This is especially true in the age of misinformation, where figures like Donald Trump’s tweets serve as a stark reminder that we must think critically and rely on our own judgment.
Boy Meets Girl: The Obnoxious Romance
A classic trope in romance literature and film is the "boy meets girl" scenario, where the girl initially finds the boy obnoxious. Despite his annoying tendencies, the boy manages to win her over, and then the girl reveals that she is even more obnoxious. This results in both of them realizing they should not have met in the first place. While this trope may seem repetitive, it is still a favorite for many because it provides a familiar path to a universal experience. The over-the-top nature of these characters and their journey can be both hilarious and relatable, making the trope appealing in its own right.
Overused tropes and clichés are deeply ingrained in our narrative landscape. While they can be criticized for lacking originality, they provide a comfort and familiarity that audiences enjoy. Whether it’s the load-up montage, the black and white moral universe, the bizarre field trip to a character’s house, or the boy-meets-girl trope, these familiar elements offer a sense of escapism and a convenient way to connect with the story. Even in the face of evolving tastes and changing genres, these tropes continue to thrive because, ultimately, they serve a purpose that resonates with audiences.