The Weakness of Contemporary Literary Fiction

Contemporary literary stories can often be weak on plot and action, substituting lots of dazzle--poetic language, wit, beautiful descriptions (or "picture painting") that always bring a halt to the story's forward momentum, or at least slow it down--for tight plotting and tight pacing. For me, the simple question of what happens next? in a story, and the feeling of suspense this creates, is a crucial aspect of great entertainment.

Charles Johnson, The Way of the Writer: Reflections on the Art and Craft of Storytelling, 2016