Deep Into the Forest

Valentine’s Day Eve finds me in the woods, but not in a bad way. I’m about a third done with my new fantasy book. It’s been fun immersing myself in what I would classify as a traditional fantasy, albeit I’m writing in first person.

I’ve noticed a few things along the way. First, to use or not to use “medieval speak”, such as thee, thou, milady, forsooth, etcetera. I’ve decided not to. As my sister says, we don’t really know if people spoke that way, it’s hard to do well and consistently, and, even when you do accomplish it can be irritating for the reader.

Second, where are we, exactly? Old earth? OK, but that limits you to say, dragons. Most fantasy writers ask the reader to imagine an alternate earth somewhere out there or a parallel timeline. You know, where there are dragons. :-) I’ve decided to do that. Which opens up its own can of worms, such as, are there worms? And should they be in a can?

What I’ve chosen to do is try not to be too earth-like. So, while I may use the word apple, I don’t have my apples coming from a known orchard or dipped in Kraft caramel coating. My criteria? If it’s too distracting or jumps out at me when I re-read I choose another word.

Lastly, how does the magic work? I think this one is very important. Are people born with magic or must you learn it...or both? Does it bubble up from some sort of magical font? Ride in on a comet? There are some who believe fantasy is easier to write than Sci-fi because you don’t have to explain the science, but I disagree. Magical boundaries and criteria are just as important.

At least, they are in my book. Tally ho and all that rot.