The worst feeling in the world is knowing what you want to say but thinking no one will listen. I started using the fantasy worlds I created to give myself an escape. Lately, fantasy worlds seem too close to reality. Most modern popular fantasy features corrupt governments and a character who changes their world for the better.

Someone unexpected and viewed as inconsequential saves their people. Though there are losses, it’s for the greater good, right? The problem is, even if the main character momentarily loses faith they will make it out alive; you know they will continue with their journey to save their people. Imagine if the hero failed and their friend had to take on the quest. If magic and mythical creatures were real, I think many of the world’s issues would simply disappear. We wouldn’t need gun control if everyone had dragons.

The Truth Behind Fantasy

Fantasy allows your audience to notice issues like corrupt governments because the main character usually witnesses something awful that the people in power quickly cover up. Then the main character tells their trusted group of friends who help start a resistance. The resistance grows and takes down the corrupt system. Reality is more complex than that.

There usually isn’t one person speaking out against an injustice. It’s typically a group of people. Depending on how much influence the group carries with the general population, the more weight their position carries. People will believe anything if the right person has evidence to support their claim. I’m convinced Taylor Swift could lead a revolution. It is commonly said that celebrities lack the necessary knowledge to comment on current events.

Knowledge isn’t necessary. You just need enough people to follow you. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins portrayed this brilliantly when they had the winners of the past Games film videos to show on television. They knew the champions were respected by the people, and used their influence to persuade others to join their cause. Fantasy authors should incorporate more public influences outside of the government. I feel there should be more disagreement among peers. A common plot point is that everyone falls into line and joins the “right” side after discovering the truth. Why are childhood friends never on opposing sides? How come nobody has to deal with an eccentric neighbor who’s been truthful the entire time?

Common Experiences in Fantasy

I’ve noticed a change in fantasy where characters are having more relatable experiences.

Most characters don’t get sick unless they get some magical curse from the villain. I would love it if a character had a cold or a headache. Most characters in Young Adult Fantasy don’t go through puberty. They usually develop powers. Why can’t a character have acne? Although there are exceptions, I hope it becomes the norm. The world has transformed into a Dystopian novel. Why not add more realism to fantasy?