Worldbuilding and Writing Tips

Overview

This lecture is a comprehensive Q&A session on worldbuilding, with additional discussion about character viewpoint, writing techniques, and practical aspects of becoming a professional science fiction and fantasy writer.

Worldbuilding in Real-World and Fantasy Settings

• Real-world settings allow shortcuts in explanation (e.g., readers understand wormholes or football without detail).
• Research accuracy is more critical in real-world settings; mistakes are more easily noticed and can damage believability.
• Use respectful research, especially with real cultures and beliefs, to avoid appropriation or stereotypes.
• Contrast elements between worlds to highlight uniqueness and help readers understand differences.
• Use conscious choices in worldbuilding; avoid unintentional errors or biases.

Character Viewpoint and Description Techniques

• Robert Jordan and George R.R. Martin anchor every description tightly to the viewpoint character.
• Mention the viewpoint character’s name early in scenes to orient readers.
• Use character-specific metaphors and descriptions to establish viewpoint and voice.
• Show versus tell: balance action-based "showing" and concise "telling" depending on narrative needs.
• Use contrast between your character and others to highlight unique traits without resorting to clichés like mirror descriptions.

Integrating Worldbuilding and Plot

• Embed important worldbuilding through scenes, other viewpoints, or character actions, even if main characters aren’t interested.
• Avoid introducing major new elements late in the story (a “gorilla in the phone booth”); foreshadow early if possible.
• Use epilogues to seed future storylines without disrupting the current climax.

Tools and Research for Worldbuilding

• Combine reading, expert consultation, and online resources for research.
• Use wikis to organize worldbuilding data and maintain consistency (e.g., character, location, and plot details).
• Beta readers and experts help identify inaccuracies or gaps in research.
• Invest sufficient time upfront in research for accuracy, especially in complex subjects (e.g., psychology, physics).

Writing Process, Pacing, and Battle Scenes

• Alternate action scenes (“scene”) with reflective or reaction scenes (“sequel”) to balance pace and allow breathing room.
• For battles, create fantastical elements to control rules and avoid real-world logistical pitfalls.
• Borrow structures from real battles or history for realism, but adapt them to fit your world’s rules and themes.

Graphic Novels, Geography, and Miscellaneous Tips

• Write graphic novels in screenplay format, then collaborate with artists for panel layout.
• Study basic geology, psychology, and art to create more original and believable worlds.
• Use "Sanderson’s Zeroth Law": Err on the side of what’s awesome and then back-justify with logic.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Worldbuilding — Creating the setting, rules, cultures, and history of a fictional world.
• Viewpoint (POV) — The character’s perspective through which the story is told.
• Gorilla in the Phone Booth — Introducing a major, unexpected element late in a story, which can disrupt narrative flow.
• Contrast — Using differences within the world or characters to highlight important features.
• Scene/Sequel Structure — Balancing high-action scenes with slower reaction scenes for pacing.
• Show vs. Tell — The narrative choice between demonstrating information through action ("show") or stating it directly ("tell").

Action Items / Next Steps

• Prepare questions for the upcoming business of writing Q&A, focusing on publishing and contracts.
• Continue writing and practicing techniques discussed (e.g., viewpoint anchoring, pacing).
• If interested, read recommended books on writing (e.g., Stephen King's On Writing, Scott Meredith's Writing to Sell, Save the Cat, Orson Scott Card's books).
• For students: consider coursework in geology, psychology, linguistics, or art to support worldbuilding skills.