Why I Love Writing Fantasy Books: A Journey into Otherworldly Realms
There’s something magical about writing fantasy books that keeps me constantly inspired. For me, writing fantasy is not just a creative outlet but a way to escape into worlds of my own making. The real world can feel overwhelming at times, and I love crafting realms where readers can forget their troubles, even if just for a while.
The Joy of World-Building
One of the most exciting aspects of writing fantasy is the freedom to create new worlds. I draw heavily from my research into Celtic and Norse mythology, combining these ancient tales of magic, mythical beasts, and legends with a sprinkle of steampunk influence. There’s something fascinating about merging the traditional with the futuristic—the clash of ancient lore with the wacky inventions of steampunk gave me a unique base to build my worlds.
World-building is like piecing together a puzzle, weaving together mystical creatures, old gods, and fantastical inventions. Every bit of research—from the folklore of dragons and fairies to the intricate mechanisms of airships—becomes another layer in the complex tapestry of my fantasy universe.
Exploring Magical Themes and Lore
I’ve always been captivated by mystical beasts, wizardry, and dragons, and researching their origins in real-life lore is one of the most enjoyable aspects of my writing process. There's something timeless about these creatures and themes that resonates deeply with readers. When I delve into Celtic myths, or discover fascinating tidbits of Norse legend, I get inspired to blend these ancient stories with my own unique spin, creating something both familiar and new.
Influences and Inspirations
My love for fantasy writing is deeply influenced by the works of Terry Pratchett, Garth Nix, and Philip Pullman. These authors helped shape my writing style, and their ability to create vivid, imaginative worlds left a lasting impact on me. Their books are a masterclass in balancing deep, meaningful themes with lighthearted moments of magic and adventure, something I strive to emulate in my own stories.
The Magic of Writing Fantasy
For me, the most thrilling part of writing is when I become completely immersed in the world I’ve created. It feels as though the story unfolds in front of me, like a carpet rolling out as I follow my characters through their adventures. When I’m really in the flow, I lose track of time—there are moments where I look back at what I’ve written and it’s almost as though the world came to life on its own.
The folk lore and magical beasts—dragons, fairies, and wizards—are among my favorite elements to write about. They give my imagination free reign, allowing me to construct worlds where anything is possible. Fantasy writing lets me break the boundaries of reality, while still grounding my stories in the rich history and myths that I’ve researched.
Why I Write Fantasy: An Escape for Readers
Ultimately, I write fantasy because I want to give others a chance to escape into a different world. With the craziness of the world we live in, fantasy offers a much-needed reprieve, even if only for a few chapters. I hope my readers can get lost in the magic, adventure, and wonder of my books, leaving behind the stresses of everyday life, if only for a moment.
The Creative Freedom of Fantasy
Contrary to popular belief, writing fantasy requires a great deal of research—from understanding the lore behind mythical creatures to studying historical periods for inspiration. However, the beauty of fantasy lies in the creative freedom it offers. Once the foundation is built, I can take the story anywhere, as long as it follows the rules of the world I’ve established. This freedom allows me to explore complex narratives, surprising twists, and evolving characters, all while staying true to the universe I’ve constructed.
My Favorite Character: Captain Augustus Volatus
Among the many characters I’ve created, Airship Captain Augustus Volatus holds a special place in my heart. He’s a bumbling, somewhat clueless character on the surface, but when it really matters, he manages to get the job done. Augustus embodies the unpredictable nature of fantasy—the way characters can grow, evolve, and surprise you, even as their creator.
Why Fantasy Matters
I believe fantasy is an essential genre because it encourages readers to explore their own creativity. Everyone experiences a fantasy world differently, depending on their background and imagination. Some readers like to race through a book, while others enjoy lingering in the tiny details, fully immersing themselves in the world I’ve created.
For many, fantasy is an escape, offering solace from the pressures of reality. Whether you're battling mythical creatures or flying on a magical airship, the beauty of fantasy is that you can travel far beyond your armchair without ever leaving it.