How to Write a Parody of a Novel

There is nothing quite like the affection a reader has for his or her favorite novel. You may have had a close relationship with a work of fiction for many years but at the same time have an overwhelming desire to make fun of it. If writing the Great American Novel has somehow eluded you, why not write a parody of a novel? If you know your treasured book well and have a sense of humor, writing a parody of a novel may be a worthy pursuit.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Ensure that your parody will not infringe copyright. Although you may be writing a parody of a novel for fun, you might just want to publish it, so you should ensure that you will be allowed to do so.
2. Base the novel on a minor character. A common technique for parody is to make a minor character the main character and vice versa. The humor will hinge on the change of focus.
3. Make puns on character and place names. It can be great fun to come up with humorous monikers.
4. Poke fun at the writer's style. If he is very terse, make your sentences ridiculously short, or if she enjoys using purple prose, be generous with the arcane and redundant adjectives.
5. Identify the most crucial moments and lines in the novel. Focus on these and make them humorous.
6. Add anachronisms to older novels. For instance, a Victorian character may get a call on a cell phone. Make sure such moments are unexpected.
7. Shorten the novel. Usually a parody of a novel is much shorter than the original version.
8. Get feedback to see if your parody is actually funny. Humor is often in the eye of the beholder, but something that is truly funny is enjoyed by all.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid litigation. Discuss your plans with a lawyer to protect yourself against lawsuits.