  Fantasy
This week: Does Size Matter? Edited by: Robert Waltz  
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A book is the only place in which you can examine a fragile thought without breaking it, or explore an explosive idea without fear it will go off in your face. It is one of the few havens remaining where a man's mind can get both provocation and privacy.
~Edward P. Morgan
My test of a good novel is dreading to begin the last chapter.
~Thomas Helm
If there's a book you really want to read but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.
~Toni Morrison |
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Does Size Matter?
How small is too small? How big is too big?
I'm talking about stories, people. Minds out of gutter.
I often discuss science fiction and fantasy together here in this newsletter, but sometimes, it's important to remember one major difference between modern science fiction and modern fantasy: The modern age of science fiction was given birth by the short story, while the modern age of fantasy was given birth by a massive trilogy of novels.
Now, of course, fantasy short stories abound, as do science fiction novels. And yet, it seems that most people who write fantasy can't seem to stop at one book - no, to realize their world, they have to write trilogies, and trilogies of trilogies or more.
And that's a lot of work. Most of us stick to short stories. Sometimes these short stories share a world; sometimes, they don't. And yet, the appeal of longer works can't be denied. Since Tolkien, there's been (just to name a few) Eddings, Jordan, Donaldson, Brust, Pullman, Lackey, Martin, and many other fantasy writers who have made their name by writing works that are epic in scope, fully-realized fantasy worlds.
There's nothing wrong with writing short stories, but it seems that in the fantasy genre at least, there's an advantage to writing longer works set in a consistent, imagined world.
In this issue of the Fantasy newsletter, I highlight (below) several longer works from Writing.Com Authors. I hope you'll take the time to check out one or more of them. |
Last month, I asked for reader submissions of longer works. Here's what you came up with:
The author writes: A sci-fi story set in San Francisco. It's about a supernatural disaster occuring when scientists try to prevent an earthquake. It's full length, 12 chapters and a prologue but is in need of some views and feedback. Great newsletter, thanks.
The author writes: I read the end of this newsletter and was ecstatic to see that you were requesting links to people full-length novels! This is Sylvester & Tuette: Cursed Doubt. Be assured that the novel is complete with 40 chapters. I've only added 10 as that's all I've edited for writing.com format (with all the italics I so desperately love!). I'll be adding the rest of the chapters over the next couple of days with the novel completely uploaded by the beginning of next week, definitely.
I'm very excited for this opportunity! Thank you, even if it's simply considered!
[It appears the entire novel is indeed posted now.]
The author writes: This is my novella. I divided each chapter into a static item. I hope you like it.
~LeMarr
The author writes: Nice NL, Robert! Here's a nice long one for you. It's almost 10,000 words; hope that's long enough. It's also a sci-fi/romance mix.
For those of you with shorter attention spans, a few shorter offerings in fantasy and science fiction:
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Have an opinion on what you've read here today? Then send the Editor feedback! Find an item that you think would be perfect for showcasing here? Submit it for consideration in the newsletter!
https://www.Writing.Com/go/nl_form
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Some comments from last month's Romance crossover issue, "Fantasy Newsletter (April 14, 2010)" :
scribbler  :
I completely agree. You shouldn't write stories with a genre in mind. We only need a genre so the book store knows where to put the book once it's published.
And even then, they often get it wrong!
Raine :
As you said, romance is the most human of desires. Whether it's on a planet far, far away or in another realm of reality between elves and gnomes, the need to love and be loved crosses cultural boundaries. As the romance genre has proven for the past decade, fantasy and sci-fi blend quite well with romance. Paranormal romances, fantasy romances and the like are the norm now. I don't see any reason why sci-fi and fantasy can't do the same. Han and Leia fell in love. Aragorn and Arwen. Why not fall in love?
Because it can only lead to pain, suffering, and losing your house! Just kidding 
Ladyoz :
Do I use elements of romance in my fantasy writing? Absolutely. For me, there is no more compelling way to electrify character interactions than to chuck in some passion. It's something every single one of us can relate to. Thanks for another great newsletter 
No, thank YOU for reading and commenting!
LJPC - the tortoise :
Hi Robert! Dang hot...er...good newsletter you wrote there! I think crossing genres is exciting and wish others would do it more often. I can't write romance worth a dang though!  -- Laura
Hey, Tortoise - newsletters are 13+ - you can say 'damn' 
Lorien :
Hey Robert. You don't need to post this comment, but I figured I'd answer your question. Every long thing I've written is GC  , but if you're looking for excellent long items, especially in speculative fiction, try Lynn McKenzie . Her newest is "Invalid Item" , but I think you'll enjoy "Invalid Item" too.
Hope this helps! Lorien
It does help, and I am posting your comment anyway because as you can see above, Lynn submitted that first item herself - and this will help readers who may be looking for more 
StephBee - GOT Survivor 
Robert, there's a demand for the combo. I'm currently writing a science fiction/speculative, set in the future on a space station with romantic elements. It will be out with Desert Breeze Publishing in DEC 2010. I think by blending genres you really can tap into two bases to build more readership.
Congrats on getting published!
And that's it for me for May! Thanks for all the submissions and feedback. Remember, you can always suggest an item (yours or another's) for inclusion in the newsletter by using the form below. We can't promise to include it, but it can't hurt! Until next time,
DREAM ON!!! |
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Fantasy: May 12, 2010 Issue [#3730]
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