Quote:
Originally Posted by issybird
Well, yeah.
Part of the problem is that the word “series’ doesn’t differentiate between what I would prefer to call “serials”, where there’s an overarching plot and the books function as episodes, and series which are mostly discrete stories even if there are some continuing elements. The latter generally have more longevity, as serials as they go on and on seem to turn into an exercise in wheel-spinning with no resolution.
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To be honest, the distinction is not that relevant to me. I would prefer authors I enjoy to branch out and stretch themselves (taking me along for the ride) with new characters, new settings, and new plots. And if the connection between books is tenuous enough to not matter, then why make them part of a whole in the first place? Whether serial or series, I find that they tend to become crutches, or stumbling blocks, for readers and authors alike (needing to tweak one's own past canon to make something new work, or problematic logistics: see Martin's Meereenese Knot).
Most series (regardless of being serial or otherwise) tend to go long past the point where they should have satisfactorily ended (the big The End, mind you) in my opinion. Readers (many) keep on because they can't not. Seems many authors do the same. I see it as a bit of a lack of courage myself. But then I'm one who rarely reads for comfort these days, so it's probably more about me. *shrug*