Writing The Fantasy Novel: Step 1

Plots: According to some sources there are only three main plots.

The happy ending: Where the hero makes a sacrifice, a decision that seems to be wrong, but he does it for the sake of someone other than himself. This leads to a Happy ending.

The unhappy ending: Where the Hero makes the right choice, but fails to make the needed sacrifice.

Literary Plot: Or the literary plot where Fate plays the major role. Critical event occurs early in the story and the tale revolves around how the characters react to that initial event.

Seven Plots Most writers agree that there are Seven main Plots, beyond these three.

They are:

1. [wo]man vs. nature
2. [wo]man vs. man
3. [wo]man vs. the environment
4. [wo]man vs. machines/technology
5. [wo]man vs. the supernatural
6. [wo]man vs. self
7. [wo]man vs. god/religion

Theme: Nothing in life is black and white. Right and wrong, good and evil are often themes running through Fantasy novels. Theme is another topic the author should consider. Defining the main character's growth, often underlines the main theme. There can be several themes running concurrently, as subplots and minor characters play their part in creating a complex tale.

In Exiled: Winter's Plight, by Rosalie Skinner, the underlying theme is acceptance. The hero finds life doesn't play into his hands in the way he would like, and adapts in order to fulfill his destiny. Speaking to the author, the inspiration for the story came from caring for her chronically ill daughter. The author watched a young person's courage as illness dictated their destiny and their life's ambitions crumbled. Other themes follow the subplots and conflicts facing the minor characters, trust- betrayal, faith-grief fear-compassion all play their part in creating a complex and captivating saga.

Themes help the reader know where the author is taking them, beyond the words written in black and white, they can share the inspiration and introspection the author uses to add another dimension to their writing.

Voice: Once the author has the plot mapped a theme to work toward, they should find writing their Fantasy novel a pleasure. Writer's block is avoided with a well mapped plot and knowing the themes running through the tale will always allow the characters to speak. Finding the author's voice is important. To write as the author's feelings flow using words, they are comfortable with, discovering their pace and style is essential for genuine voice. Once recognized, the writer will gain confidence to write as they feel and their voice will give their words a realism and truth. Struggling to copy another author's style will destroy that personality and uniqueness.