Is Road Trip a Genre?

By Alice Nichols

Road trips have become a popular way of exploring the world and taking a break from the monotonous routine of everyday life. However, there has been a debate amongst travelers and experts alike about whether road trip can be considered as a genre or not. In this article, we will delve deeper into this topic and try to establish whether road trip is indeed a genre or not.

What is a Genre?

Before we dive into the specifics of whether road trip can be considered as a genre or not, it’s important to understand what exactly is meant by the term ‘genre’. In literature and other forms of art, the term ‘genre’ refers to a category or style that is characterized by certain features such as plot, theme, setting, and tone. Some common examples of genres include horror, romance, mystery, science fiction, and fantasy.

Is Road Trip a Genre?

Now let’s come back to our original question – can road trip be considered as a genre? The answer is both yes and no.

On one hand, road trip can be seen as a sub-genre within travel writing. Many books and movies have been written on this subject which follow a similar structure – a group of people embarking on a journey together in their vehicle while exploring different places along the way. These stories are often characterized by themes such as self-discovery, adventure, and freedom.

However, on the other hand, it can be argued that road trips are not really a genre in themselves but rather an experience that can be depicted in various genres such as comedy or drama. For example, movies like ‘Little Miss Sunshine’ or ‘Thelma & Louise’ are often categorized under comedy-drama but also feature elements of road trips.

The Importance of Road Trips

Regardless of whether road trips can be classified as genres or not, there’s no denying the importance they hold in our lives. Road trips are a way of exploring the world and discovering new things.

They offer us an opportunity to break away from our everyday routine and experience something new. Moreover, road trips allow us to spend quality time with our loved ones and create memories that last a lifetime.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while road trip can be seen as a sub-genre within travel writing, it’s not really a genre in itself but rather an experience that can be depicted in various genres. However, this doesn’t take away from the importance of road trips and the impact they have on our lives. So whether you’re planning your next road trip or just reminiscing about the one you took last summer, remember that it’s not about the genre but rather the journey itself that matters.