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Brandon Sanderson Reveals Why Elves and Dwarves Don't Exist in His Fantasy Realm

Update An Imaginative Evolution in Fantasy Writing Brandon Sanderson, a name that resonates in the sphere of contemporary fantasy literature, has built an impressive career by avoiding the traditional tropes associated with the genre. In his recent YouTube discussion, Sanderson outlines why his narratives eschew iconic characters like elves and dwarves, a choice that speaks to his desire to push the boundaries of fantasy storytelling. Emerging from Tolkien's Shadow Starting his journey as a writer in the early 2000s, Sanderson found himself under the towering influence of J.R.R. Tolkien. The impact of Tolkien's worldbuilding, particularly after the success of Peter Jackson's film adaptations of the Lord of the Rings, cast a long shadow over the fantasy genre. Many works relied heavily on Tolkien's established norms, prompting Sanderson to voice his initial discontent through a provocative essay claiming that Tolkien had stifled creativity in fantasy. Over the decades, he has revisited these sentiments, reflecting on how the genre might evolve even further. Creating a Unique Fantasy Universe One of Sanderson's core beliefs is the importance of innovation in fantasy writing. While he acknowledges that dragons and other fantastical beasts have an undeniable appeal, he strives for deeper, more human-focused storytelling over creature-centric narratives. As he poignantly states, "Fantasy should be the most imaginative genre. It’s the genre where you can do anything.” For Sanderson, the goal is to create new races and cultures that circumvent the traditional framework laid out by Tolkien and others. This desire for originality serves as the hallmark of his writing, promising readers experiences that feel fresh and engaging. More Than Just Magic and Monsters Sanderson's approach emphasizes character depth and complexity in a manner that often prioritizes human emotions and relationships over fantastical elements. Drawing draws inspiration from the notion that stories should reflect nuanced human experiences—whether through adversity, triumph, or the sheer complexity of life. This modern take on fantasy fosters a more relatable connection for readers who may find themselves disenchanted with cliches and predictability. Shifting Perspectives on Traditional Tropes As he reflects on his past dismissals of genre norms, Sanderson acknowledges a prevalent issue in fantasy: while many writers lean heavily on established tropes, the genre itself offers unprecedented opportunities for exploration. His growth as a writer is reflected in his evolving understanding—while he initially sought to reject Tolkien's influence, he now believes there is room for all forms of storytelling. He encourages writers and readers alike to embrace their passions, stating, "write your book, read your book, read what you love, write what you love.” This evolution in thought suggests that even those previously deemed 'overdone' can find avenues for refreshing reinterpretation. The Future of Fantasy Writing As the genre continues to mature, Sanderson hopes it will shed its reliance on a narrow spectrum of influences. He sees epic fantasy on the precipice of a golden age—an era where the genre might be as diverse and expansive as science fiction has become. This anticipation aligns with an increasing interest in unique narratives, as displayed by a growing number of successful films and series adapting original works, many of which are based on Sanderson's own creations. Encouraging New Voices Ultimately, Sanderson's approach is not merely about rejecting traditional fantasy elements but about paving the way for new voices and fresh ideas. His work embodies a statement against creative stagnation, encouraging writers to explore their own unique perspectives, thus enabling the evolution of the genre itself. As readers look for new and innovative stories to captivate their imaginations, Sanderson's commitment to crafting unique and engaging narratives offers a compelling glimpse into what the future of fantasy literature can hold. Engaging with contemporary works and adapting personal philosophies, Sanderson stands as a paragon of the imaginative potential that fantasy writing can achieve through originality and character focus. For those eager to explore rich and thoughtful worlds beyond convention, Sanderson's stories serve as an invitation into an expansive realm of literary possibilities.