Join Dan, Mary Robinette, Howard, and Patrick Rothfuss as they discuss creating timeless urban fantasy and compelling secondary world fantasy without complex magic systems. They explore the art of crafting immersive worlds, character development, and the impact of world changes in fantasy writing.

In this discussion, fantasy author Patrick Rothfuss, known for his Kingkiller Chronicle series, shares insights on crafting beautiful prose that resonates with readers. The conversation explores elements like word choice, sentence structure, and the significance of dialogue in storytelling. Rothfuss and the hosts emphasize the importance of concise writing, encouraging writers to embrace brevity for emotional impact. They also celebrate poetry, highlighting Gwendolyn Brooks and urging listeners to engage with diverse forms of expression to enhance their creativity.

Patrick Rothfuss, bestselling author of the Kingkiller Chronicle, joins the hosts to explore the art of revision. He shares techniques for gaining perspective on drafts and emphasizes the importance of identifying weaknesses. The conversation dives into the balance between narrative structure and emotional engagement. They discuss maintaining character dynamics and the role of tension in storytelling. Rothfuss also offers practical strategies for condensing text and enhancing clarity, essential tools for any writer looking to refine their craft.