Writing Excuses 20.35: Deep Dive into “All the Birds in the Sky” - Using the Lens of Where
12 snips
Aug 31, 2025 Discover the transformative role of setting in storytelling, where locations become living characters influencing emotions and growth. Dive into the dynamic interplay of urban and natural landscapes, with San Francisco as a backdrop for social activism and personal evolution. Explore how detailed sensory elements enrich the reader's experience, making unfamiliar places feel authentic. Plus, get practical tips to elevate your narrative environments with a fun writing exercise!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Context Anchors Place
- Charlie Jane Anders uses local, specific details to ground readers in place even if they haven't been there.
- Contextual mentions (like Boston transit quirks) let unfamiliar readers still understand the setting.
City As Story Engine
- Rich, believable San Francisco details make the city feel lived-in and authentic.
- Place shapes the technological vs. magical conflict and characters' goals.
Memorable Small Details
- Unnecessary, distinctive details create memorable settings more than generic descriptors.
- Small, odd specifics (sign languages, penguins, etc.) make places stand out in readers' minds.
