Because I probably won’t stop at just one.
I am 3/4s (I am hoping) through in writing Book 2 of the Agartes Epilogues, as well as having finished the outline for the entire series (there will only be three books. Three. With standalone spinoffs. Maybe.) I am only now starting to realize how difficult writing epic fantasy is.
I should say ‘good’ epic fantasy, but I don’t want to make it sound like I have a strong opinion of my work (I try to make it good, which could mean anything, and that’s about it). Then again, though, bad epic fantasy is pretty difficult to write, too.
I mean, just think of all the plot threads…the drama, the political intrigue, a (fake) world’s scale of events. You’re trying to keep track of this large cast of make-believe characters, and have them orchestrate this grand story that is supposed to offer a measure of significance, or moral lesson, or at least some sort of amusement. This has led me to believe, particularly on my worst days (when staring at a blank piece of paper and downing half a bottle of rum is not enough to kick my creative juices into gear) that people who write epic fantasy are a little mad.
Still, I love this genre. I am particularly vocal about all its shortcomings (as my writing group can attest to), but I will devour it in whatever form or shape it comes in…books, movies, JRPGs, other video games. It can be so frustratingly derivative and predictable, but amazing when done right.
Do you like sarcasm, drama, and lots of talking before sword fights? Do you sometimes wish your epic fantasy had more feelings? Then please support my hungry brood and give The Agartes Epilogues a try! It’s like a soap opera with dragons!
