I don’t mean intelligent in a way that they’re difficult to read or the plot is overly complex and needs prior knowledge.
I’m looking for the books that are intelligently written. Everything about their plot is natural and realistic, the opposite of “idiot” plots and unrealistic coincidences. They are so well-thought-out, logical, and creative at the same time that they feel flawless, as well as display the author’s virtuosity and superb intelligence.
It could be any format: book, novel, comic, tv show, etc.
I rarely encounter pieces like that, and as a writer, I’m desperate for inspiration!
by Separate-Sock5715
2 Comments
The Wire is probably the gold standard for this – every character makes decisions that actually make sense for who they are and their circumstances, no convenient plot armor or dumb villain mistakes
Also check out The Expanse series (books or show), the political maneuvering and physics are surprisingly grounded for sci-fi
Even though this is a book sub, I feel obligated to say Abbott elementary (TV). It’s such a well written show. It’s so consistent and the character growth is so well done too.
Almost everything said and done on the show come from a place of true love for the characters and universe and not just to “progress the plot”. Even small quirks and habits the characters have are kept consistent throughout the show. You can tell the writers love their characters and it shows.