Writing The Fantasy Novel: Step 2

Setting Landscape of a Fantasy novel is integral to the believability of the world the author creates. When thinking of the setting of the novel the writer must keep in mind what is successful and how the characters will perform in the climate and seasons.

Seasons / Climate: If the world is an adaptation of an Earth like planet with a single moon, remember phases of the moon will affect tides, a tilted axis will effect season, and proximity to the poles will affect extreme temperatures. Even thought the land is fantastic, the rules governing climate should be recognizable and the need for shelter and food are always part of any journey.

Transport: If horses are a mode of transport, the author should know a few facts about them. If not, it is time for a little research. Horses need food, rest and care if working animals. They are expensive and in most feudal or primitive societies, they are valuable and expensive to purchase. Coaches are even more expensive, if they are available and carts have several benefits but again would be costly. Feed should be available for horses, whether ridden or carriage animals. Stallions are not the easiest horses to manage, though the romantic idea of a hero riding one is common.

If the troupe is walking, the average distance traveled should allow for footsore heroes. Boots made with leather soles are invariably slippery and a curse to walk distances in. Skin shoes would not last for many days of walking. Feet in boots begin to sweat and need attention, or health problems will slow the journey. At least the author should consider some of the realities of a long journey.

Shelter: Sleeping rough, involves mosquitoes, cold, damp conditions, hard ground and creepy crawling insects. Smoke from any fire always blows into the face of those crowding around for warmth or companionship. Bringing a few realities into the story can make the reader feel as if they are sharing the experience. It can add humor to a tense moment, or tension to a humorous one.

Giving an imaginary world a touch of reality can make the unreal more acceptable and if feeling lost and out of touch can give the reader some way of touching base and empathizing with the hero's journey.