How to Become a Fantasy Writer: Exposition
Fantasy writing is a captivating genre that allows authors to unleash their imagination and build entirely new worlds filled with magic, mythical creatures and adventure. However, one of the most critical elements of writing fantasy is exposition. In this guide, we'll delve into the world of writing fantasy and examine the important role that exposition plays in creating a believable and immersive environment for your story.
What is Exposition in Fantasy Writing?
Exposition is a storytelling technique that provides the reader with essential information about the setting, characters, and plot of a story. In fantasy writing, it is a crucial component of world-building, which is the process of creating a believable and immersive environment for your story.
The Vital Role of Exposition in World-Building
Exposition serves as the foundation for your story and helps to set the stage for the reader. By providing the reader with key information about the world you've created, it gives them a sense of the kind of story they can expect and makes your world feel more alive and believable. A well-crafted exposition can be the difference between a world that feels flat and uninspired, and one that is rich and immersive.
Tips for Writing Effective Exposition in Fantasy
I believe Exposition is one thing that is better explained with practical examples. Hence the next part.
Be Specific and Detailed
The more specific and detailed your exposition is, the more believable your world will become. Paint a vivid picture of the geography, climate, and culture of your world by including specific details.
Example:
"The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien
"The road now plunged into a deep cutting, slanting downwards. When it finally emerged, it had widened, and it turned left, running along the dry bed of a narrow stream. To the right there was a chasm, with little plants growing in cracks in its sides, and great crags standing up above, shadowy and threatening in the dusk."
Exercise:
Write a descriptive paragraph about a location in your world, using specific details to bring the place to life. Focus on creating a sensory experience for the reader by including details about smells, sounds, and textures.
Show, Don't Tell
Instead of simply telling the reader what your world is like, show them through description and action. This will make your world feel more alive and engaging.
Example:
"The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien
"They had just begun to climb the long slope that led up to the main entrance, when Bifur gave a cry: 'Ware! Ware!' They all stopped short and listened. A deep rumble, booming like thunder underground, was coming after them. That doesn't sound like bears or wolves, thought Bilbo, even though he had never heard either bears or wolves make noises quite like that before."
Exercise:
Write a scene in which your main character travels to a new location in your world. Instead of simply telling the reader about the place, describe it through the character's actions and reactions.
Balance Description with Action
Finding the right balance between description and action is crucial. Too much exposition can slow down the pace of your story, while too little can leave your world feeling underdeveloped.
Example:
"A Song of Ice and Fire" series by George R.R. Martin
"The sound of hooves echoed through the darkness, growing louder with every passing moment. The riders are a fearsome sight, with their black armor and long black cloaks, the flaming red hearts on their breastplates. They are led by a tall man with a pale face and bright blue eyes, who seems to be searching for something in the night."
Exercise:
Write a scene that balances description with action. Start by setting the stage with a description of the location and characters, then introduce conflict or action to keep the scene moving. Try giving a paragraph to each of them, in turns.
Build Your World Around Your Characters
Your characters should be integral parts of the world you've created. Ensure that your exposition reflects their motivations, beliefs, and personalities to make them feel like real, fully-realized individuals.
Example:
"Stormlight Archive" series by Brandon Sanderson
"We are not like others," Kaladin said, leaning against a wall. "We are not content to live out our lives in comfort, avoiding danger and letting others suffer for us. That's what lighteyes do. It's what darkeyes are expected to do. We can't change the world by sitting and hoping for someone else to do it for us." Sylphrena flitted down to perch on Kaladin's shoulder, looking up at him with curiosity. "We are going to change the world?" Kaladin nodded, his eyes hard. "We are going to try."
Exercise:
Write a character profile for one of your characters, including details about their background, motivations, beliefs, and personalities. Then, write a scene in which the character interacts with the world in a way that reflects their personality.
Use Dialogue to Reveal Information
Dialogue is a great way to reveal information about your world and characters in a natural and engaging way. By including dialogue in your exposition, you can provide the reader with important information without sacrificing the flow of the story.
"Poppy War" series by RF Kuang
"If you want to survive in Nikan, you must first understand the gods," Rin said to her fellow recruits as they trained in the fields. "They are not distant, benevolent beings looking down upon us from the skies. They are real, tangible forces that shape our world every day." She lifted her hand and summoned a ball of flame, letting it dance between her fingers. "The gods are power. They are everything that we are not. And if you want to survive, you must learn how to wield that power."
Exercise:
Write a scene in which two characters have a conversation that reveals important information about your world. The dialogue should be natural and engaging, and should provide the reader with new insights into the setting, characters, or plot.
Now, you might be asking yourself:
How much exposition is too much?
Well, it depends on the story and the author's writing style. Too much exposition can slow down the pace of your story, but too little can make your world feel underdeveloped. Finding a balance that works for you and your story is key.
Let your imagination run wild and start building your own unique world today with the power of exposition.
Check out how to write a First Chapter, if you have not already.
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