Yes, I think it is more common in fantasy stories, and I understand the impulse! But maybe I'm skewed by reading more fantasy stories than general fiction?
I guess I expect a bit more "wordiness" in fantasy stories, for the sake of lyricism or magic-weaving. But in science fiction? I think it is even more important to make the reader work for it :P
Good advice, Neil, especially in fantasy worlds where one feels sort of compelled to explain everything and everyone! 🥰
Yes, I think it is more common in fantasy stories, and I understand the impulse! But maybe I'm skewed by reading more fantasy stories than general fiction?
I guess I expect a bit more "wordiness" in fantasy stories, for the sake of lyricism or magic-weaving. But in science fiction? I think it is even more important to make the reader work for it :P
Really interesting and useful post, Neil! I greatly enjoyed it!
Thank you Nicolas!
I've always admired the way that Dune (the novel) opens with gradually released information, all of it important, but none of it overwhelming.
My copy's in a box in my basement, but the "gradual release" sounds like the way to do it :)
I've read it three times. It's my favorite fantasy. I was always surprised that my creative writing students doing world building had never read it.
I'm surprised too! There is SO MUCH in it :)