Are you building the right world?

Some of the best quotes aren’t from self-help books or business books, or world-renowned classics.

Some of them are from weird fantasy books.

If you’ve never read any of Brandon Sanderson’s work, or much fantasy in general, I would recommend taking a break from your regularly scheduled programming to indulge. (I would recommend starting with the Mistborn series)

In his book Think Again, Adam Grant proposes that the ideal point of view is that of a scientist. A person who is willing to reconsider facts. To come to different conclusions. Firm beliefs, loosely held.

While it seems counterintuitive, fantasy writing can provide incredible insights into human nature.

And I think it has something to do with Adam Grant’s thesis. With letting go of assumptions and being willing to change your mind. Taking a different perspective.

In fantasy world-building, the author is often having to start from scratch. Willing to throw out any and all assumptions about how the world works. (In Tress and the Emerald Sea, quoted above, the oceans are made of aerated plant spores that rain down from a series of moons. It’s crazy.)

They have the opportunity to create a world that brings the right story out of their character instead of the other way around.

When you don’t just get outside the box, but you throw the box out.

And the tape.

And the floor the box sat on.

And the gravity that tied the box to the floor.

You’re just left with you.

Does the box you’re in even exist?

Do you have the authority to shape your world? (yes)

Does the world you’re building lead to your best story?

be good

z