
Worldcasting Podcast
Fireside Chat: B.K. Bass
May 30, 2020
B.K. Bass, Writing Chair at Worldbuilding Magazine and Editor-in-Chief of Kyanite Publishing, shares insights on worldbuilding in sci-fi, fantasy, and horror. The conversation touches on balancing planning with spontaneity in writing and how the digital landscape changes what it means to be a successful author. Bass emphasizes the importance of humor and sensory details in immersive storytelling. He also delves into the essence of the cyberpunk genre, providing practical tips for writers to develop their unique voices.
26:47
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Quick takeaways
- Worldbuilding techniques vary widely among authors, with some preferring extensive planning and others developing their worlds organically throughout the writing process.
- Contemporary literature trends focus more on character-driven narratives and personal experiences, reflecting a shift towards deeper emotional engagement in storytelling.
Deep dives
The Art of Worldbuilding
Worldbuilding is a crucial aspect of writing in genres like science fiction, fantasy, and horror, and the methods employed can vary significantly from one project to another. Some authors create extensive backgrounds before writing, while others prefer to develop their worlds organically as they progress. For instance, one author discussed how their series was inspired by previous works, leading to a dark fantasy setting where characters were anthropomorphic beings exploring a maritime city filled with pirates. This contrasts with another project that took over two years of meticulous planning to develop a vast epic fantasy world with significant lore and history.
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