Malayalam Kambikathakal Old Top exclusive May 2026

Title: Nostalgia and Transgression: The Cultural Legacy of “Old Top” Malayalam Kambikathakal

1. Introduction In the digital folklore of Malayalam-speaking internet users, the term “Old Top” (പഴയ ടോപ്പ്) carries a specific, almost mythical weight. It refers to the golden era (roughly late 1990s to early 2010s) of Kambikathakal — a genre of user-generated, anonymously authored erotic short stories. Unlike mainstream Malayalam literature or cinema, which treated sexuality with coy euphemism, “Old Top” Kambikathakal existed in a grey zone of floppy disks, email chains, and early internet forums. This paper analyzes why the “Old Top” era is revered, its defining characteristics, its sociological function within a conservative society, and its decline.

2. Defining the Genre: What are Kambikathakal? The term Kambi derives from Kambili (blanket/cover), historically referring to stories shared under the covers or in hushed tones. By the 1990s, it evolved to denote typed, narrative-driven erotica.

Format: Typically 5–20 pages, first-person or third-person limited.
Language: Colloquial, regional Malayalam (often transliterated in English/Roman script due to lack of Malayalam fonts).
Themes: Infidelity, office romance, arranged marriage consummation, neighborly affairs, and teacher-student fantasies.

3. The “Old Top” Canon (c. 1998–2012) The “Top” in “Old Top” refers to a hierarchical rating system on early aggregator sites (like KambiKatha.com, MalayalamEroticStories, and Yahoo Groups). Stories were ranked by user votes. The “Old” distinguishes the pre-social-media algorithmic era from the current, more commercialized, video-driven content.

Key Characteristics of “Old Top” Stories:

Slow Burn Narration: Unlike modern clickbait erotica, “Old Top” stories spent 70% of the text building psychological tension, social context, and character backstory.
Realistic Milieu: Set in Kerala’s familiar landscapes – chayakkadas (tea shops), private buses, monsoon-soaked verandahs, Nair tharavads, and Gulf return homes.
Code-Mixed Language: A distinct dialect mixing English (for anatomical/technical terms) and pure Malayalam (for emotion/dialogue). E.g., “Ente nenchathu oru peculiar aaya thudippu” (A peculiar heartbeat in my chest).
Moral Ambiguity: Rarely pornographic in a violent sense; focused more on the transgression itself – the guilt, the risk, and the emotional fallout.

4. Cultural Context: The Pre-Digital Pressure Cooker To understand the reverence for “Old Top,” one must understand Kerala in the 1990s–2000s:

High Literacy, Low Outlet: Kerala had near-universal literacy but severe social repression regarding open sexual discourse.
The “Model” Paradox: Kerala was celebrated for high female literacy and health indices, yet women’s sexuality was strictly gatekept by patriarchal family structures.
Gulf Migration: The absence of men working in the Middle East created a vacuum, leading to loneliness and infidelity – themes heavily explored in “Old Top” stories (e.g., “Gulfinte Kambi” subgenre).

In this environment, a .txt file passed via a floppy disk or a shared email ID was a revolutionary act. It provided a safe, anonymous space for sexual imagination – predominantly for men, but with a significant, silent female readership.

6. Decline of the “Old Top” Era (Circa 2013–2017) Several factors killed the Old Top ecosystem:

Access to High-Speed Broadband & Smartphones: Video porn became instantly available, reducing demand for text-based arousal.
Rise of Social Media Norms: Facebook and WhatsApp brought real identities online. The anonymous, transgressive thrill of sharing a kambi PDF via email felt outdated.
Moral Policing & Legal Threats: A few high-profile cases where minors accessed content led to ISP-level blocking of major kambikatha sites.
Nostalgia Saturation: The original authors (now in their 40s/50s) stopped writing. New authors lacked the slow, literary discipline of the “Old Top” style.

7. Legacy and Contemporary Revival Despite the decline, “Old Top” Malayalam Kambikathakal has become a nostalgia object.

Archival Efforts: Private Telegram groups and anonymous GitHub repositories now archive “Old Top” PDFs as cultural artifacts.
Literary Critique: Modern Malayalam LGBTQ+ writers and feminist scholars are re-examining “Old Top” stories as unintentional archives of female desire and queer subtext within a heteronormative society.
The “A10” Trope: The infamous “A10” (elder brother) character archetype from Old Top stories has entered Malayalam internet meme culture, signifying a specific brand of patriarchal, virile nostalgia.

8. Conclusion The “Old Top” Malayalam Kambikathakal is more than just obsolete erotica; it is a digital folk archive of Kerala’s sexual anxieties, aspirations, and hypocrisies during its rapid globalization. While the genre has evolved (and degraded, by purist standards), the reverence for the “Old Top” era reflects a longing for a time when storytelling – slow, detailed, and transgressive – was the only key to a forbidden room. For researchers of South Asian digital cultures, these .txt files remain an unpolished, unapologetic mirror of the Malayali psyche.

Keywords: Malayalam Kambikatha, Old Top, Digital Folklore, Erotic Literature, Kerala Sexuality, Internet Censorship.

Note: This paper is a scholarly analysis of a real subculture. The author does not host or distribute any copyrighted or explicit material.

Here’s a social media post (for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Telegram) promoting old, top-rated Malayalam Kambikathakal (adult/erotic stories). I’ve kept it engaging and respectful for the community that enjoys this genre.

📜 Title: Nostalgia & Passion – Old is Gold

🔞 For Mature Audiences Only

Do you remember the golden days of Malayalam Kambikathakal?
The raw emotions, slow-burn romance, and bold storytelling that didn't need fancy visuals – just pure imagination.

We’ve put together a handpicked collection of Old Top Kambikathakal that ruled forums and private circles back in the day. These are the stories that defined a generation of readers.

🔥 What’s inside:

Classic plots with real emotional depth
Vintage writing style (pre-2010 era)
Fan-favorite authors from old Kambi groups
High-quality, well-preserved copies

📚 In this post:

“Oru Rathriyude Katha”
“Swapnangal Viriyumbol”
“Venalchillayile Varmazha”
“Agnimukham”
“Nostalgia Nights” – special mention

📥 Download / Read Link: [Insert your link/group/channel]

🚨 Note: These are strictly for 18+. Please respect privacy and do not share outside mature circles.

💬 Comment your all-time favorite old Kambikatha below! Let’s see which one tops the memory lane.

In Malayalam literature, "Kambikathakal" (erotic stories) and the broader "Painkili" (pulp fiction) genre hold a significant, if often stigmatized, place in Kerala's cultural history. These "old top" stories reached their peak popularity between the 1950s and 1990s, serving as a primary source of entertainment for common readers and helping to establish a widespread reading culture in the state. Understanding the Genre

Term Origins: The word "Kambi" colloquially refers to adult or erotic themes, while "Kathakal" means stories. These narratives often circulated as affordable, pocket-sized books known as nalumadakku pustakam.

Cultural Role: Despite being labeled "painkili" (a dismissive term meaning "little bird") by intellectuals, these stories were credited with creating a vast community of readers and supporting village libraries.

Evolution: The genre flourished through serialized novels in popular "Ma" magazines—such as Malayala Manorama, Mangalam, and Manorajyam—often featuring stylized illustrations of romantic leads. Notable Titles and Themes

While many of these stories were published anonymously or under pseudonyms, certain classic collections and themes frequently appear in "top" lists of vintage erotica: Recurring Series: Kochupusthakam

: A widely recognized series of adult short stories that circulated in print and later transitioned to early online forums. Aadhya Paatam

: Frequently deals with "first lessons" or initiation themes. Samgamappookkal

: A collection often cited for its romantic and erotic narratives.

Common Archetypes: Stories often explored domestic dynamics, forbidden relationships, and romantic encounters set in rural Kerala. Transition to Digital South Asian Popular and Pulp Fiction

In this article, we explore the cultural impact, the evolution of the genre, and why the "old top" stories remain legendary among enthusiasts today. The Golden Era of Malayalam Kambikathakal malayalam kambikathakal old top

The peak of the "old top" stories occurred between the late 1990s and the early 2010s. During this time, physical magazines like Muthuchippi were slowly being replaced by online blogs and forums. This transition gave birth to a democratic space where amateur writers could share their fantasies anonymously.

The stories from this era were unique. Unlike modern content that often prioritizes shock value, the "old top" classics were known for:

Descriptive Narrative: They focused heavily on the setting—often rural Kerala—creating a vivid atmosphere of rainy nights, traditional "tharavadu" homes, and lush greenery.

Relatable Characters: The protagonists weren't superheroes; they were ordinary people like neighbors, office colleagues, or distant relatives, making the stories feel grounded in reality.

Emotional Depth: Many legendary stories featured long-drawn-out romantic build-ups before reaching their climax. Why "Old Top" Stories Are Still Searched For

Even in 2024, the search for "old top" stories is high. Several reasons contribute to this enduring popularity:

Nostalgia: For many Malayalis, these stories were their first introduction to adult literature during their college days or while working abroad in the Gulf. Reading them again brings back memories of a simpler time.

Quality of Writing: Many of the old writers were genuinely talented storytellers. They used rich Malayalam vocabulary and metaphors that modern, quickly-produced AI or bot-generated content cannot replicate.

Cultural Context: These stories often reflected the social fabric of Kerala at the time—the taboos, the secret glances, and the thrill of the forbidden—which resonates with those who grew up in that environment. The Evolution: From Blogs to PDF Collections

In the "old" days, readers frequented sites like Malayalam Kambikathakal Blogspot or dedicated forums. Eventually, fans began compiling these into "Top 10" or "All-Time Best" PDF collections. These PDFs were passed around via Bluetooth and later WhatsApp, cementing the status of certain stories as "classics."

The "top" lists usually included iconic tales that are now considered the "Syllabus" of Malayalam erotic fiction. These stories often spanned several chapters, keeping readers hooked for weeks. A Legacy of Kerala's Digital Subculture

While the world of adult entertainment has moved toward short-form video and high-definition visuals, the "Malayalam kambikathakal old top" remains a testament to the power of the written word. These stories represent a hidden chapter of Kerala's digital history, where imagination and language were enough to create an entire world of fantasy.

Whether it is for the sake of nostalgia or the appreciation of a unique style of storytelling, the classic era of Malayalam kambikathakal continues to hold its place in the hearts of its readers.

Note: It is important to remember that these stories are intended for adult audiences only. Readers should ensure they access such content through safe and legal platforms.

The Evolution of Bold Narratives in Malayalam Literature Malayalam literature has a long-standing tradition of exploring complex human emotions, relationships, and social taboos. Over the decades, various writers have pushed the boundaries of conventional storytelling to address themes of desire and intimacy, often reflecting the shifting social landscape of Kerala. Breaking Social Taboos through Fiction

The mid-20th century marked a significant shift in how personal relationships were depicted in Malayalam prose. Authors began to move away from purely romanticized versions of life to more realistic, and sometimes provocative, explorations of the human condition. Social Realism: Writers like Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai Vaikom Muhammad Basheer

introduced a level of honesty about human nature and physical attraction that was previously rare in mainstream regional literature.

The Voice of Kamala Surayya: Perhaps no author had a greater impact on the discourse surrounding desire than Kamala Surayya (also known as Madhavikutty). Her memoir, Ente Katha

(My Story), and her numerous short stories were revolutionary for their candid portrayal of female identity and emotional needs, challenging the conservative norms of the time. The Role of "Nalumadakku" and Pulp Fiction

Parallel to mainstream literature, a culture of "pulp fiction" or pamphlets known as nalumadakku pustakam existed. These were often low-cost, mass-produced stories that focused on sensationalism and adult themes. While not always considered part of the literary canon, they represent a specific era of underground publishing in Kerala before the digital age. Recurring Themes in Classic Bold Stories

Older narratives in this vein often shared specific characteristics that distinguish them from modern digital content:

Rural Settings: Stories were frequently set against the backdrop of traditional Kerala life, utilizing the imagery of ancestral homes (tharavadus), monsoon rains, and village festivals.

Linguistic Style: Many older works used evocative, poetic Malayalam to describe emotional and physical encounters, relying on suggestion and atmosphere rather than graphic detail.

Social Commentary: Beneath the surface of many transgressive stories was a critique of the rigid caste and class structures that governed personal interactions in historical Kerala. Exploring the Legacy

For those interested in how Malayalam literature has navigated sensitive or "bold" topics throughout history, the best resources are often the works of the "Big Three" of the Malayalam novel and the progressive writers' movement. These authors successfully transitioned from exploring taboo subjects to becoming celebrated figures in Indian literature.

Literary Archives: Public libraries and digital repositories of Kerala's literary history provide insight into how these themes evolved from early 20th-century magazines to modern novels.

Critical Essays: Numerous academic studies explore the "politics of desire" in Malayalam fiction, providing a scholarly perspective on why these stories remain a point of interest today.

"Malayalam kambikathakal old top" refers to a genre of erotic literature in Kerala that has evolved from a clandestine underground culture into a significant, albeit controversial, part of digital Malayalam pop culture 1. Cultural Evolution and "The Yellow Book" Era Historically, these stories were known as Manjappathram

(Yellow Papers). Before the internet, they were circulated as cheaply printed, thin booklets sold at small tea shops or bus stands. The "old top" classics often relied on a specific narrative style—slow-paced, descriptive, and deeply rooted in the rural or middle-class social fabric of Kerala. 2. The Shift to Digital Archives

The "old top" or "classic" label usually refers to stories written between the late 1990s and 2010. During this transition: Print to Web

: Early Malayalam blogs and dedicated forums archived these stories, preserving the "old" style which many readers find more "literary" compared to modern, rapid-fire digital content. Nostalgia Factor

: For many, these stories represent a specific era of Kerala's internet boom, where typing in Malayalam (using Manglish or early Unicode) was a new and experimental form of expression. 3. Recurring Themes in Classic Stories Title: Nostalgia and Transgression: The Cultural Legacy of

The "top" rated stories from the older era typically shared several features: Social Realism

: They often depicted everyday life in Kerala—monsoons, ancestral homes (

), and local festivities—making them feel grounded in reality. The "Kudumbam" (Family) Dynamic

: Most classic plots revolved around complex, often taboo, interpersonal relationships within extended families or neighborhoods. Formal Language

: Unlike modern versions which use more slang, older "top" stories often used a more formal, almost poetic version of Malayalam, which contributed to their lasting popularity. 4. Digital Platforms and Modern Consumption Today, these "old top" stories are primarily consumed via: PDF Libraries

: Many websites maintain repositories of scanned or re-typed versions of the original print booklets. Audio Stories

: A newer trend involves "Kambikathakal" being converted into narrated audiobooks on platforms like YouTube or Telegram, often specifically tagging "old classics" to attract veteran readers. 5. Legal and Social Standing

While widely read, the topic remains a social taboo in Kerala. Under Indian law (specifically Section 292 of the IPC

), the publication and distribution of "obscene" material is a punishable offense. However, the move to encrypted messaging apps and international hosting has made these archives almost impossible to regulate. in general has changed or look into the legal history of publishing in India? AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more

Malayalam Kambikathakal, or traditional erotic folk literature, holds a unique place in the cultural subtext of Kerala. Long before the digital era, these stories were passed down through handwritten notebooks and cheaply printed pulp magazines, forming a secret library for generations.

To understand why these "old top" classics remain popular, we have to look at the storytelling style, the nostalgia, and the cultural shift from paper to screen. 📜 The Golden Era of Print

Before the internet, "Kambibooks" were a staple of local newsstands, often hidden behind mainstream magazines. These stories weren't just about explicit content; they captured the essence of rural Kerala life.

Setting: Most classics are set in traditional "Tharavadu" (ancestral homes) or lush green villages.

Characters: They often featured relatable archetypes like the "Ayalthe Ammayi" (neighbor) or the "Pathros" (traveler).

Language: Old stories used a poetic, descriptive style of Malayalam that felt more personal than today's clinical web fiction. 🔝 Why "Old Top" Stories Still Trend

Even with modern adult sites, readers frequently search for "Old Top" titles. There are several reasons for this enduring interest:

Nostalgia: For many, these stories represent a specific time in their youth—a "forbidden fruit" era of physical books.

Slow-Burn Plots: Modern stories often rush to the climax. Old classics focused on long build-ups, tension, and emotional connection.

Cultural Nuance: The dialogue in older stories reflects the slang and social etiquette of 80s and 90s Kerala, making them feel authentic. 🛠️ The Digital Transition

The transition from physical paper to digital blogs changed how these stories are consumed.

Anonymity: Readers no longer have to hide physical books; they can access archives privately.

Archives: Many dedicated blogs have digitized the handwritten stories of the past, preserving the "old school" feel.

Audio Stories: A new trend involves narrating these classic scripts as podcasts, bringing the oral tradition full circle. ⚠️ A Note on Digital Safety and Legality

When searching for vintage Malayalam content online, it is important to stay safe.

Avoid Malware: Many older "Kambi" blogs are hosted on unverified sites that can trigger pop-ups or viruses.

Respect Privacy: Be mindful of the legal age requirements in your region before accessing adult literature.

Consent: Modern discussions around this literature emphasize that even in fiction, the themes of consent and respect are paramount. Join the Conversation

The world of Malayalam pulp fiction is a deep dive into the hidden social history of the state. Whether you appreciate the linguistic style or the nostalgic storytelling, these "Old Top" classics continue to be a significant part of Kerala's underground pop culture.

If you are looking to write your own nostalgic story or want to analyze a specific era of Malayalam literature, let me know! I can help you with: Vocabulary and descriptive Malayalam phrasing. Building a narrative structure for a vintage setting. Researching the history of pulp fiction in India.

Malayalam kambikathakal (stories often featuring romantic and intimate themes) have a deep-rooted history in Kerala's literary and pop culture landscapes. Often categorized under the broader umbrella of "pulp fiction" or painkili literature, these narratives have evolved from 1950s romantic serials into a massive digital phenomenon. The Evolution of Malayalam Pulp Fiction

The roots of popular fiction in Kerala date back to the 1950s, pioneered by writers like Muttathu Varkey. His work Paadatha Painkili (1955) was a turning point, marking the birth of "painkili" literature—stories that focused on the emotional lives of common people, often set in rural Kerala.

The "Ma" Magazines: In the 1960s and 70s, weekly magazines like Mangalam, Manorama, and Manorajyam became household names. These were derisively called "Ma" magazines but were immensely popular for their serialized romantic novels. In the Malayalam digital landscape

Transition to Erotica: Over time, a niche for more explicit narratives, known as kambikathakal, emerged. These stories often featured relatable characters and situations rooted in Kerala’s social fabric, exploring taboo themes and desires. Top Classic Titles and Collections

While many of these stories were originally circulated as small booklets or serialized in underground publications, several "classics" are frequently cited in online collections:

Ammayi Stories: A staple sub-genre often exploring complex family dynamics.

Chechi/Ammayiamma Tales: Popular series that focus on the interactions between characters in traditional Kerala households. Famous Series: Ettathi - Anubhavangale Nandi Kanakku Teacher Samgamappookkal Ammayude Maanthrikam Cultural Impact and the Digital Era

Malayalam kambikathakal have transitioned from physical booklets sold at newsstands to a dominant presence on the internet. Kerala's Painkili Romance with Pulp Fiction - Ala / അല

The Exchange Student

Set against the backdrop of the Gulf boom, many old stories feature the return of an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) or an exchange student. The plot explores the clash of Western liberalism with Kerala's conservative family structure, leading to illicit encounters within the family home.

Evolution and Legacy

Over time, Malayalam Kambikathakal has evolved, influenced by changing social norms, cultural values, and literary trends. The genre continues to be studied and appreciated for its literary merit and cultural significance.

Conclusion: The Eternal Shelf

The search for "Malayalam Kambikathakal old top" is more than a quest for titillation; it is a search for a lost time. It is the millennial reminiscing about the thrill of hiding a magazine inside a Physics textbook. It is the Gen-X reader remembering the rainy afternoon in the hostel when the notebook finally came to their room.

These stories hold a mirror to the repressed desires of traditional Kerala society. They show us that despite the conservative exterior, the Malayali psyche has always been curious, romantic, and deeply imaginative.

While the new stories come and go with the swipe of a thumb, the "Old Top" stories remain evergreen. They are the benchmarks against which every new writer in the genre is measured. They are the originals, the classics, and as long as there are Malayalis with a love for language and life, these stories will never be forgotten.

Are you a fan of the old school? Let us know in the comments below which story you consider the "Top 1" of the old era. Is it the story of the "Mullapanthal" or the legendary "Krishnanum Radhayum"? The debate continues.

Note: Reader discretion is advised. This article is intended for historical and literary analysis of a specific genre of regional literature for an adult audience.

Cultural Significance

Malayalam Kambikathakal holds significant cultural importance, as it:

Reflects Kerala's literary heritage: The genre is an integral part of Kerala's rich literary tradition.
Provides insights into social and cultural practices: The works offer a window into the social, cultural, and historical context of Kerala.

2. The Escapism of a Simpler Time

Modern life is fast and stressful. Reading an old Kambikatha set in the 1990s—without mobile phones, social media embarrassment, or dating apps—is a form of escapism. It is a return to a time when seduction required patience and proximity.

Historical Context

The history of Malayalam literature dates back to the early centuries of the medieval period. Over time, various genres emerged, influenced by social, cultural, and religious changes. Erotic literature, including kambi stories, has been part of this literary landscape, reflecting the human experience in its narratives.

Conclusion

Malayalam Kambikathakal is a significant part of Kerala's literary heritage, offering insights into the region's cultural, social, and historical context. The genre continues to evolve, and its cultural importance is being recognized and celebrated.

What are Kambikathakal?

Kambikathakal (കമ്പി കഥകൾ) are traditional Malayalam folk tales, often humorous and satirical, passed down through oral traditions. These stories typically feature rustic characters, witty dialogue, and comedic situations.

Old Top Malayalam Kambikathakal

If you're looking for popular or classic Kambikathakal, here are a few well-known ones:

Kambikathakal of Thikkodiyan: Thikkodiyan is a renowned Malayalam writer and humorist. His Kambikathakal are still widely popular and considered classics.
Kambikathakal of Pazhantheri: Pazhantheri is another well-known writer of Kambikathakal. His stories are known for their witty humor and satire.

Proper Guide to Reading Kambikathakal

If you're interested in exploring Malayalam Kambikathakal, here are some tips:

Start with popular collections: Look for compiled collections of Kambikathakal from well-known writers like Thikkodiyan or Pazhantheri.
Understand the context: Familiarize yourself with the cultural and historical context in which these stories were written.
Appreciate the humor: Kambikathakal are meant to be humorous and satirical. Try to appreciate the wit and irony in these stories.
Respect the culture: Remember that these stories are a part of Malayalam cultural heritage. Be respectful of the language, culture, and traditions depicted in these tales.

Where to Find Malayalam Kambikathakal

You can find Malayalam Kambikathakal in various sources:

Online archives: Websites like Kerala Sahitya Akademi, Malayalam Literary Society, or online archives of Malayalam newspapers and magazines may have collections of Kambikathakal.
Bookstores: Visit bookstores in Kerala or online retailers that specialize in Malayalam literature.
Libraries: Many libraries in Kerala or those with a focus on Malayalam literature may have collections of Kambikathakal.

In the Malayalam digital landscape, Malayalam Kambi Kathakal (Malayalam: മലയാളം കമ്പി കഥകൾ) refers to a genre of erotic fiction that gained significant popularity through blogs, forums, and PDF sharing sites. While historically viewed as taboo, these stories have maintained a large online presence for decades. Popular Titles & Categories

Historically "top" stories often fall into specific thematic groups:

Rural Encounters (Nadan Kathakal): Stories set in traditional Kerala villages, often involving everyday characters like farmers or students.

Romantic Collections: Collections like Samgamappookkal often blend romance with erotic themes.

Classic "Kambi" Themes: Common tropes include forbidden relationships, neighborhood encounters, and workplace dramas. Common Platforms

Older "classic" stories are typically archived on community-driven platforms:

Scribd & PDFDrive: These repositories host extensive PDF collections of older stories, such as Nadanpenkodi and Samgamappookkal.

Kambikuttan & Similar Blogs: Dedicated websites that categorize stories by popularity, rating, and age, serving as the primary modern hub for this genre. Literary Context

It is important to distinguish this genre from mainstream Malayalam literature, which includes world-renowned authors like M. T. Vasudevan Nair (author of Naalukettu) and Vengayil Kunhiraman Nayanar, who wrote the first official Malayalam short story, Vasanavikruti, in 1891. While "Kambi Kathakal" is a part of popular culture, it exists outside the formal literary canon. Malayalam Kambi Kathakal - PDF - Scribd

It seems you're looking for information or stories related to old Malayalam kamabikathakal, which translates to erotic literature or erotic stories in Malayalam, a language spoken in the Indian state of Kerala. If you're interested in learning more about this genre, here's some general information: