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WRITING GLOSSARY

What is Fantasy?

Fantasy fiction uses supernatural, magical, or impossible elements as core story material.

Definition

Fantasy fiction uses supernatural, magical, or impossible elements as core story material. Worlds may be secondary (invented) or our world with hidden magic, depending on subgenre.

Example

A quest to destroy a cursed artifact in a kingdom ruled by sorcerers is classic fantasy.

Related terms

Common mistakes

  • Thinking fantasy requires medieval Europe, elves, and dragons every time.
  • Explaining every magic rule upfront instead of revealing them through conflict.
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