Worldbuilding is essential for long form creative writing.
Recently I’ve been studying a lot of world build by novice and expert authors and I noticed some common mistakes.
Here are a few elements that must always be kept in mind when creating a new world.
1: The Foundation: History and Culture – Delve into your world’s past, weaving intricate histories, conflicts, and cultural traditions. A rich tapestry of history adds depth and believability, giving your world a sense of lived-in reality.
2: The Heart of the World: Inhabitants and Communities – Populating your world with diverse characters, each with unique stories and motivations, breathes life into your creation. Develop intricate communities with their own customs, languages, and social structures.
3: The World’s Essence: Environment and Geography – Describe your world’s physical landscape in vivid detail, from towering mountains to sprawling forests. Consider the impact of climate, natural resources, and geographical features on your world’s inhabitants and their way of life.
4: The Magic System (if applicable) – If magic exists in your world, create a consistent and well-defined system with its own rules and limitations. This ensures that magic serves as a tool within your world, not a deus ex machina.
5: The Intangible Details: Laws, Beliefs, and Technologies – Define your world’s legal system, religious beliefs, and technological advancements. These details add layers of complexity and make your world feel more real.
6: The World’s Rhythm: Daily Life and Society – How do your characters spend their days? What are their social norms and expectations? Delve into the mundane aspects of life in your world to create a vibrant and immersive experience.
7: The Unseen Forces: Conflict and Tension – Introduce conflict and tension to drive your narrative forward. This could be in the form of political struggles, social unrest, natural disasters, or even supernatural threats.
8: The Power of Details: Consistency and Authenticity – Pay attention to the small details, such as the names of places, the dialects spoken, and the types of food available. Consistency and attention to detail make your world feel more believable and immersive.
9: Show, Don’t Tell – Instead of simply telling your readers about your world, show them through vivid descriptions, engaging dialogue, and captivating scenes. Let your readers experience your world through the eyes of your characters.
10: Invite Your Readers to Explore – Encourage your readers to delve deeper into your world by leaving some mysteries unsolved or providing hints of hidden depths. This will keep them engaged and eager to learn more.