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Why Fantasy Is Going To Extremes (With Nghi Vo)
Nov 14, 2024
Nghi Vo, author of 'The City in Glass' and 'The Brides of High Hill', dives into the rigid dichotomy of today's fantasy literature: the clash between cozy narratives and dark, violent tales. She shares insights on navigating racial representation without centering whiteness, referencing influencers like Toni Morrison. The conversation highlights how fantasy can provide comfort in turbulent times while addressing modern challenges. Through her unique lens, Vo explores the duality of extremes in fantasy storytelling, inviting readers to embrace diverse perspectives.
50:41
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Quick takeaways
- The current fantasy landscape is polarized between cozy narratives and dark themes, reflecting readers' yearning for comfort or confrontation with reality.
- Authors face challenges in depicting white characters inclusively, aiming to move beyond stereotypes while honoring complex racial identities in their storytelling.
Deep dives
The Impact of Early Fantasy Reads
A foundation is built through early encounters with fantasy stories, shaping personal aesthetics and literary preferences. Classic titles like 'The Wizard of Earthsea' and 'A Mouse and His Child' left a significant impact on early readers, inviting them into worlds filled with complexity and darker themes. These formative tales often involve characters on quests for autonomy, tackling psychological struggles in unique and surreal ways that resonate deeply with young audiences. The nostalgic recollection of these works emphasizes how they foster a lifelong appreciation for fantasy, influencing authors' later storytelling styles.
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