The phrase describes literature centered around abrupt, challenging, and often overwhelming experiences where individuals must quickly adapt and learn to survive or succeed. These narratives typically involve characters thrust into unfamiliar or demanding situations with minimal support, requiring them to leverage their inner resources and resilience. A fictional depiction might portray a protagonist suddenly responsible for a failing business, forcing rapid acquisition of financial acumen and leadership skills.
Such stories offer readers valuable insights into adaptability, resourcefulness, and the human capacity for growth under pressure. They often resonate because they mirror real-life scenarios where individuals face unexpected adversity and must develop new skills to overcome obstacles. Historically, the trope has been employed to explore themes of self-reliance, the limits of human endurance, and the merits of experiential learning versus formal training.
