Creating a captivating world for your novel involves more than just imagination; geography and setting are key to making your story come alive. Whether your setting is a bustling city, a forsaken wasteland, or an enchanting forest, the geography of your world shapes the plot, character development, and reader engagement. In this installment of “Building a Kickass World,” we’ll look closely at geography and how to use it effectively in your writing.
Understanding Your Geography
When you start to build your world’s geography, consider the terrain that will influence your story significantly. Is it mountainous, flat, or filled with vast oceans? Local geography impacts not only the scenery but also the culture of your characters. For instance, communities often form around rivers for trade or thrive in fertile valleys. The Great Plains of North America, with their wide stretches of flat land, promote agriculture and the movements of nomadic tribes, while the Alps inspire tales of isolation and adventure.
To better visualize your world, create maps as visual aids. Even a rough sketch can clarify distances, routes, and regions. There are numerous map-making apps like Inkarnate or Wonderdraft that offer features for crafting detailed landscapes. By examining how different terrains interact, you can gain insights that inspire various narratives. The fantasy realm of Middle-earth from J.R.R. Tolkien features inter-connected locations—from the Shire's rolling hills to the treacherous Misty Mountains—that define the adventure's flow.
Climates Matter
Climate can significantly shape the mood and feel of your story. A harsh desert backdrop often symbolizes struggle, while a lush tropical paradise promotes themes of happiness and connection. Weather patterns can influence character experiences, too. For example, a drought could threaten a village's survival by 30%, compelling characters to make critical choices about resource management or relocation.
Consider how shifts in seasons affect your world. A frigid winter might lead to communal gatherings, where characters must collaborate to survive, or a sudden monsoon season could unite a community in rebuilding efforts. When a storm disrupts a crucial moment, it can ramp up tension and create chaos. Every environmental detail can be a powerful plot device, serving to propel the story forward and deepen emotional connections.
Cultural Influence of Geography
Geography not only defines the landscape but also influences the cultures within it. The available resources shape local economies and social practices. For instance, a region with plentiful forests, like the Pacific Northwest, might focus on timber and crafts. On the other hand, coastal areas often revolve around fishing and trade, as seen in the bustling harbors of countries like Japan or Norway.
Allow your characters to embody their environments. A community isolated in the mountains may value self-sufficiency and perseverance, reflecting the ruggedness of their homes. In contrast, inhabitants of a thriving trade city might be more cosmopolitan, exposing themselves to diverse ideas and cultures. This cultural integrity makes characters resonate more deeply with readers, as they feel relatable and genuine.
Crafting a Realistic Setting
A well-constructed geography is vital for building reader immersion. Using sensory details enhances your setting's believability. What are your characters smelling? Is there the earthy scent of rain or the salty tang of the sea breeze? Vivid descriptions paint a picture that brings your world to life, engaging readers on multiple levels.
Invoke powerful language to help readers feel like they are stepping into your world. Describing a bustling marketplace, rich with the aromas of various spices, or a tranquil landscape, where characters hear the rustle of leaves, creates a vivid setting. For example, instead of merely stating, "The town was busy," consider describing it as, "The town buzzed with life, as vendors called out their wares, blending sights, sounds, and scents into an intoxicating melody."
Key Takeaways for Worldbuilding
Geography and setting serve as foundational aspects of worldbuilding that are essential for storytelling. To captivate readers, focus on creating thoughtfully constructed terrain, factoring in climate, letting culture shine through your characters, and incorporating sensory elements. A compelling setting transforms ordinary words into a rich, immersive experience. So, grab your pen or digital tool, and start building a world your readers won’t forget!
Click for Part One, Part Two, or Part Three, and check out next month's final in this series, Part Five!
What are you in the mood for?
Happy Reading!
Always,
Ana
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