The Dos and Don’ts of Writing Science Fiction
Humans are a curious bunch, and they try to find ways to feed their wonders. That is why science fiction thrives in the literary industry, making it a great choice of genre you can write in. Science fiction is a creative masterpiece that forges tons of benefits to its readers. Books that belong to this genre have come a long way. Their creative and innovative narratives and plot twists are remarkably unique and noteworthy. One book that proves this idea is Cyberbrain, authored by one of the most talented authors, Benoit Blanchard. This book is a dark science fiction novel that will keep readers at the edge of their seats. It introduces new mind-blowing science novelties that will spark ideas and knowledge within the readers.
Just like Benoit Blanchard’s book, sci-fi offers something beyond pleasure and entertainment to the readers. It also helps in improving mental stimulation. Having a passion for writing a book in this genre is a must. But because of how advanced it can be, the writing process is a long and hard one. To help you out, the following are some of the dos and don’ts to help you navigate some of the common pitfalls:
Do List Down Your Ideas
Remember that a great sci-fi novel is full of big and unique ideas. Thus, when something pops out of your mind, make sure that you write them down. Unlike any other genre, the greatness of this one depends on a great conceit. The best ideas come to writers in the most random times—during showers, on a walk, or while talking to someone. You don’t necessarily have to do this before you start your actual process. You can list down your ideas in the time frame of the writing process. This way, you can help yourself not fall into the hole of creative block, which most authors struggle with.
Do Focus on Worldbuilding
Worldbuilding is the very element that can help transport your readers to your imagination or the world that you have created in your mind. Even in other genres, worldbuilding is the determinant of the success of your story. Thus, you need to make this a top priority. The world you are going to create is something that lives, and all your characters should also be living there. Cyberbrain by Blanchard has proven the author’s creativity and ability to think outside the box.
Don’t Overlook Character Development
Your characters are the ones that will give life to your story. Hence, giving time to focus on them is significant. Don’t get caught up in focusing on your plot and building your world. Always put in mind that developing your characters is equally important as other elements. One tip for developing your characters is to not focus on your main characters but also those supporting characters. One way or another, these supporting characters are going to be the ones that will steal the heart of your readers. Just think of Ron and Hermione on J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter series or Vanessa on Blanchard’s Cyberbrain.
Don’t Write Hard Science
Sci-fi also needs to make sure that the general audience will be able to connect with the story. That is why don’t let the whole narrative be dependent on science. In other words, don’t let science get in the way of developing a good story. But you need to incorporate a grasp of physics and science. If you do this, you are focusing on making your story relatable and comprehensible. Before you start writing, you make sure that you are thinking of a soft science approach.
Do Create Remarkable Plot Twists
Readers fall hard for those books with the most creative plot twists. It is a big factor in making them remember your book and you as the writer for the rest of their lives. When you create your story, never forget to forge some little plot twists so that they will want to anticipate what’s going to happen next. They will grip your audience’s attention, keeping them engaged in your story.
Ultimately, no matter how complicated and lengthy the process of sci-fi writing can become, it can be enjoyable as well. Long as you have a sense of passion for it, you are good to go.
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