Genre-Specific Writing Tips for Sci-fi and Fantasy Writers

by Zena Dell Lowe @ZenaDellLowe

Whether you're crafting a sci-fi epic, a heartwarming romance, or a spine-tingling thriller, each genre has rules that must be adhered to if the writer hopes to shine. Understanding the nuances of your genre is crucial because it allows you to meet and exceed your readers' expectations. Today, let’s dive into genre-specific tips for writing sci-fi and fantasy.

The Importance of World-Building for Writers

World-building is the cornerstone of sci-fi and fantasy writing. While all genres require some level of world-building, sci-fi and fantasy demand immersive, intricate worlds that feel tangible and unique. It's not just about setting; it’s about crafting societies, ecosystems, histories, and systems of power or magic that shape your characters and drive your plot.

To create a compelling world, the first thing you need to do is define its rules. Why? Because the rules you establish will shape everything else—from the conflicts your characters face to the boundaries of what’s possible in your story. By grounding your world in consistent principles, you create a foundation of believability that allows readers to suspend disbelief and dive fully into your narrative.

Five Types of Rules in World-Building

Your world’s rules dictate how everything operates, from physical phenomena to societal norms. Here are five key categories to consider:

1. Physical Laws. Define how the physical world operates. Does gravity work differently? What role does technology play? For instance, Isaac Asimov's Foundation series hinges on the meticulously crafted "Three Laws of Robotics," which govern human-robot interactions.
2. Magic Systems. If magic exists, it needs rules. Establish how it works, its limitations, and what it costs. Brandon Sanderson’s Mistbornseries features a magic system based on ingesting metals, with each metal providing a specific ability. These rules are crucial to the story's conflicts and strategies.
3. Social Structures. Create hierarchies, power dynamics, and cultural norms. Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games uses the division between the Capitol and the districts to create societal tension that drives the series.
4. Economic Systems. How do trade, resources, and currency function? Frank Herbert’s Dune is a prime example, with the scarcity of spice fueling interstellar politics and economics.
5. Religious Beliefs. Includes gods, rituals, and moral codes. Neil Gaiman’s American Gods uses the tension between old gods and new as a thematic and narrative driver.

Building Culture: Four Examples

World-building isn’t just about rules; it’s about making your world feel alive. Culture adds depth, showing how people interact with and adapt to their environment. Here are five standout examples:

1. Wakanda in Black Panther. A seamless blend of advanced technology and traditional African culture. Wakanda feels real because it incorporates cultural traditions alongside futuristic tech.
2. The Wizarding World in Harry Potter. From Hogwarts to Quidditch, J.K. Rowling creates an entire magical society, complete with customs and quirks, that feels as vibrant as the real world.
3. The Fremen in Dune. Their survival techniques and water conservation methods reflect a culture shaped by the harsh desert environment of Arrakis, grounding Herbert’s world in realism.
4. The Capital in The Hunger Games. Its opulent fashion, shallow entertainment, and oppressive political power contrast sharply with the districts, highlighting themes of inequality and rebellion.

Three Tips for Creating History

The past shapes the present, even in fictional worlds. Crafting a rich history adds layers of depth to your narrative.

1. Timeline Creation. Map out key events that shaped your world. These events can inform your plot and add historical weight to your story. For instance, J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Silmarillion establishes the ancient history behind The Lord of the Rings.
2. Legend and Lore. Myths, legends, and historical figures bring texture and meaning. In The Lord of the Rings, Isildur’s story provides critical context for Frodo’s quest to destroy the One Ring.
3. Cultural Impact. Show how historical events influence societal norms and character motivations. Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Timeuses past prophecies and wars to shape the current conflicts.

Summary and Actionable Steps

World-building is an art that can elevate your sci-fi or fantasy story to new heights. To master it:

• Start with the Rules: Define how your world operates and stick to the rules.
• Build Culture: Add depth by exploring customs, traditions, and societal norms.
• Create History: Develop a backstory that enriches the current narrative.

As you craft your worlds, remember that they should serve the story, not overshadow it. Ground your fantastical elements with relatable characters and compelling stakes. When done right, your world will transport readers, immersing them in a realm they’ll never want to leave. 

Happy writing!

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Zena has worked professionally in the entertainment industry for over 20 years as a writer, producer, director, actress, and story consultant. Zena also teaches advanced classes on writing all over the country. As a writer, Zena has won numerous awards for her work. She also has several feature film projects in development through her independent production company, Mission Ranch Films. In addition to her work as a filmmaker, Zena launched The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe, a podcast designed to serve the whole artist, not just focus on craft. In 2021, Zena launched The Storyteller’s Mission Online Platform, where she offers advanced classes and other key services to writers. Zena loves story and loves to support storytellers. Her passion is to equip artists of all levels to achieve excellence at their craft, so that they will truly have everything they need to change the world for the better through story.

To find out more about Zena or her current courses and projects, check out her websites at WWW.MISSIONRANCHFILMS.COM and WWW.THESTORYTELLERSMISSION.COM