Simply put, MM Romance is a segment of romance literature that deals with romantic relationships between male characters. Derived from a type of fan fiction known as ‘slash fiction’, the MM stands for ‘Male/Male’, denoting the homosexual relationship involved.
The Evolution and Acceptance of MM Romance
Initially originating from the world of fan fiction, MM Romance has been progressively gaining acceptance within mainstream literature since the late 1980s. Over the years, numerous publishers have embraced this genre resulting in a steady increase of representation. Bestselling authors are now increasingly exploring and contributing to the genre.
As a thrilling recognition to the genre, MM Romances were nominated for the RITAs in 2015 for the first time.
Sub-genres and Themes in MM Romance
Just like other genres of romance, MM Romance also possesses a diverse range of sub-niche categories accommodating various unique themes. These can range from ‘coming out of the closet’ narratives, to ‘gay-for-you’ plots and explorations of ‘first-time gay’ experiences. MM Romance novels also showcase an array of characters including, but not limited to, transgender protagonists, Christian characters, or characters from the Amish community.
Other variations can include the exploration of polyamory, pansexuality, and bisexuality with plots featuring more than two protagonists.
The Transformation of MM Romance
The genre originally being called ‘slash fiction’ has now grown to be known simply as MM Romance or gay romance. The transformation of MM Romance is not only indicative of societal shifts in acceptance towards homosexuality but has also had an impactful influence on reshaping ‘norms’ within the literary community. Today, MM Romance novels are celebrated for being emotion-filled tales of love that contribute to the diverse fabric of modern literature.
Conclusion
An understanding of MM Romance requires an appreciation for the progressive evolution that this genre has undergone, breaking barriers and challenging norms along the way. The continued growth and acceptance of MM Romance contribute to a diverse literary landscape fostering an open conversation about love, acceptance, and inclusivity. It reminds us that love’s many forms are all worth celebrating and that everyone deserves a love story.