What does "High Concept" mean?
We were discussing "High Concept" or "Commercial Appeal" at the office yesterday and realized this is something that trips up many authors and agents. So here are my very random thoughts on the subject. Source: Creative Commons What is High Concept? First, let me say what it's not: It's not your whole book. Not inherently lowest common denominator plot (like a literary or think piece plot). Not just a movie pitch (Stranger Things: ET meets Aliens and every other 80s movie). Not another term for gimmicky. High Concept has five elements: broad appeal, ooh factor, originality, standout setting, and illuminates a universal human truth. Source: MemeMaker The premise has broad appeal which I know is kind of vague since appeal is really subjective but the concept should be distinct, easily parsed with a clear premise that is immediately intriguing and taps into a wide range of readers' interest. A great example today was Kami...