* Realism: This genre focuses on portraying life as it is, with all its complexities and hardships. It often features gritty depictions of poverty, violence, and social injustice in urban environments. Examples include "The Jungle" by Upton Sinclair and "Native Son" by Richard Wright.
* Naturalism: This genre emphasizes the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior. It often depicts characters struggling against overwhelming forces, such as poverty, societal constraints, and fate. Examples include "Maggie: A Girl of the Streets" by Stephen Crane and "The Red Badge of Courage" by Stephen Crane.
* Social Realism: This genre uses literary techniques to highlight social and economic inequalities, and the struggles of marginalized communities. It often focuses on the lives of working-class people, immigrants, and other groups facing hardship. Examples include "How the Other Half Lives" by Jacob Riis and "The Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck.
* Crime Fiction: This genre often explores the dark side of urban life, including violence, corruption, and poverty. While not always focused on the brutal realities of everyday life, it frequently uses these elements as a backdrop for its stories. Examples include "The Maltese Falcon" by Dashiell Hammett and "The Godfather" by Mario Puzo.
* Grit Lit: This is a relatively new genre that specifically focuses on the harsh realities of life in urban settings. It often features characters dealing with poverty, addiction, violence, and other challenges. Examples include "The Wire" by David Simon (television series) and "The Savage Detectives" by Roberto Bolaño.
It's important to note that these genres can overlap, and many works of literature combine elements from multiple genres. Ultimately, the best way to find literature that conveys the brutal realities of daily life in urban and harsh settings is to explore different genres and authors.