Rationally Writing Episode 1 - What is Rational Writing?
Feb 13, 2016
Daystar Eld and Alexander Wales, both talented webserial authors, dive into the fascinating world of rational writing. They discuss the key characteristics that define this genre, emphasizing logical consistency and character motivations. The conversation highlights the importance of rational storytelling in technology-related narratives and critiques superficial sci-fi tropes. Additionally, they explore the evolving role of rationalism within geek culture and the significance of cultivating critical thinking through fiction, paving the way for deeper narrative explorations.
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Rational vs Rationalist Clarified
- Rational fiction refuses rule-of-cool shortcuts and earns its dramatic moments through plausible reasoning.
- Rationalist fiction centers on characters who explicitly examine and improve their thinking.
Rationalism Is A Distinct Taste
- Rational fiction overlaps with good writing but is not identical; you can have great art that deliberately breaks rational rules.
- Rational stories aim to expose rules and reasoning rather than rely on audience hand-waving.
Explain World Mechanics That Matter
- If you adapt an existing world, identify obvious unexplained mechanics and answer them to avoid hand-wavy inconsistencies.
- Explain how pivotal technologies would shape institutions and everyday behavior.