Learning to Write Fantasy Novels Through the Lens of Fanfiction

Exploring the realm of fanfiction can provide valuable insights into crafting your own fantasy novel, even if the quality of fanfiction isn't always up to par. This article delves into how reading through fanfiction not only serves as a powerful tool for spotting flaws and pitfalls but also offers unique opportunities to observe how different interpreters reimagine the same fantasy universe. However, ultimately, to hone your craft, it is crucial to study established authors in the genre and immerse yourself in professionally edited works.

Spotting Flaws in Fanfiction

One of the most significant advantages of reading fanfiction is its ability to highlight common writing flaws. Fanfiction often lacks the polish and structure of professionally published works, making it easier to spot inconsistencies and errors in plot, character development, and worldbuilding. By carefully analyzing these pieces, aspiring writers can recognize areas for improvement and refine their own writing.

Understanding Diverse Interpretations of Fantasy Worlds

One of the most fascinating aspects of fanfiction is the diverse ways in which different authors engage with the same fantasy universe. For example, take the vast Harry Potter fandom, with its rich tapestry of stories and characters. While J.K. Rowling crafted the beloved Harry Potter series with meticulous attention to detail, thousands of fanfiction authors have taken these characters and settings to explore new realms, fill in gaps, and experiment with alternate timelines and scenarios. This diversity can be both daunting and inspiring for aspiring fantasy novelists, offering a glimpse into the vast creative potential within any established universe.

Choosing Established Authors as Mentors

Instead of relying solely on fanfiction for inspiration and guidance, it is more beneficial to study works by established authors. By examining the writings of respected fantasy authors such as Patricia Wrede, Robert E. Howard, Travis Baldree, and J.R.R. Tolkien, you can learn the intricacies of worldbuilding, plot development, and character creation. These authors have set the standard for fantasy literature, offering a wealth of knowledge and techniques that can be readily applied to your own writing.

Embarking on the Journey of Worldbuilding

One of the most critical aspects of writing a fantasy novel is worldbuilding. This involves creating a coherent and immersive setting, complete with its own rules, customs, and history. Fanfiction can offer invaluable insights into how different writers approach this task. Consider the following questions:

How does magic work? What are its limits and capabilities? Is literacy common? Are books readily accessible, or are they rare commodities? What is the state of infrastructure? Do all houses have bathtubs, or are public bathhouses more common? Do people have bathing habits? Do they bathe regularly, or only when necessary? Is witchcraft or wizardry respected or feared? How do people react to those with magical abilities?

The answers to these questions can provide a solid foundation for your worldbuilding. By considering these and similar questions, you can create a rich and believable fantasy world that resonates with readers.

The 3 R's: Reading, Writing, and Revising

To excel as a fantasy novelist, follow the 3 R's: Read, write, and revise. The more you read, the more you understand the structure, plot, and character development of successful fantasy novels. Writing allows you to put your ideas into practice, while revising enables you to refine and perfect your work. This ongoing cycle of learning and improvement is essential for any aspiring author.

Remember, writing a world like someone else's is only the first step. To truly excel, you must establish your own voice, story, and unique interpretation of the fantasy genre.