What is fantasy?

This is a question I've been asked many times when it comes to writing. What is fantasy? What comes to mind when you hear the word 'fantasy'? Perhaps its wizards and witches, elves, magical far-off lands, mystical potions, or creatures that don't exist in our own world. While all of those things are common elements found in fantasy stories, the genre itself goes much further than that.

According to childliterature.net, fantasy is "events occur outside the ordinary laws that operate within the universe. Magic is central to the fantasy genre. Fantasy stories often involve journeys and quests."

Essentially, fantasy includes an alternate version of reality, or an entirely new world altogether. It can be as simple as changing certain parts of the real world, or building one from scratch. For example - your story could take place in New York City, where everything is exactly the same except the people there have psychic powers.

The setting isn't what makes a story 'fantasy', but it often plays a role in some way. As opposed to a unique take on reality itself, many fantasy writers create their own worlds - sometimes even brand-new species, languages, customs, and creatures.

In short, fantasy is hard to define. While elves, dragons, and magic spells are common themes found in fantasy stories, they don't always have to be! The reason fantasy is so popular is because of the freedom you have to pour your imagination into it. Don't be afraid to think outside the box!

(Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone)

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