this changed my perspective on WRITING MAGIC!

Summary

This video script explores the concept of 'hard' and 'soft' magic in storytelling, challenging the binary classification and suggesting a spectrum approach. The speaker advocates for considering the function of magic in a narrative, whether it's to evoke wonder or solve plot problems. Using humor, like the 'metaphysical taco' for superpowers, the script illustrates how magic systems can be more fluid and engaging when their rules and revelations are tailored to the story's needs, rather than strictly adhering to predefined hard or soft categories.

Takeaways

• 🧙 The concept of 'hard' and 'soft' magic systems is discussed, suggesting that these terms may not be as useful as focusing on the function of magic within a story.
• 🌟 A magic system's primary functions are to either look cool and immersive or to solve problems within the narrative.
• 🌮 The 'metaphysical taco' is used as a humorous example to illustrate how a magic system can appear 'hard' with clear rules but still be 'soft' in practice due to its open-ended nature.
• 📚 The speaker argues that magic systems exist on a spectrum from 'hard' to 'soft', determined by their function and the level of detail revealed to the reader.
• 🎭 The magic system's classification as 'hard' or 'soft' is influenced by the perspective of the audience, the writer's understanding, and the characters within the story.
• 🌈 Magic systems that serve to create a sense of wonder tend to be on the 'soft' side, as they are more about world immersion and less about specific rules or problem-solving.
• 🔍 Conversely, magic systems designed to solve problems are often 'harder', requiring internal logic and consistency that the audience can understand and anticipate.
• 📉 The level of detail about a magic system often increases with the stakes of the problems it's used to solve, to avoid the perception of a Deus ex Machina.
• 💡 The speaker emphasizes that writing about magic systems is subjective and encourages writers to experiment with different approaches to find what works best for their story.
• 📖 References to works like 'The Lord of the Rings', 'The Name of the Wind', 'Avatar', and 'One Piece' are used to illustrate different magic system functions and their classifications.

Q & A

What is the main point the speaker is trying to make about magic systems in storytelling?

The speaker argues that the classification of magic systems as 'hard' or 'soft' is not as important as understanding their function within a story. They emphasize that the purpose of a magic system should be to either create a sense of wonder or to solve problems within the narrative.

What does the speaker mean by 'metaphysical taco'?

The 'metaphysical taco' is a humorous and fictional example used by the speaker to illustrate how a magic system could be both 'hard' (having clear rules) and 'soft' (being loose and unrestricted) at the same time. Eating a taco grants superpowers, but the specifics of what powers and how they work are left open to interpretation.

How does the speaker differentiate between 'hard' and 'soft' magic systems?

The speaker suggests that 'hard' magic systems have clear, defined rules, akin to a science, while 'soft' magic systems are mystical, loose, and unrestricted. However, they also propose that the distinction is not binary and that magic systems exist on a spectrum between these two extremes.

What is the significance of the speaker's mention of Gandalf from 'The Lord of the Rings'?

The speaker uses Gandalf to illustrate the concept of 'soft' magic, where the character can perform magical acts without a clear explanation of how or why. This approach leaves more to the imagination and contributes to a sense of wonder.

How does the speaker relate the function of magic in storytelling to the concept of 'Deus ex Machina'?

The speaker warns against using magic to solve problems in a way that feels unearned or unexplained, which can lead to a 'Deus ex Machina' scenario. This term refers to a sudden, unexpected resolution to a plot that feels contrived or unmotivated.

What role does the audience's perspective play in determining whether a magic system is perceived as 'hard' or 'soft'?

The speaker suggests that the audience's perception of a magic system's hardness or softness is influenced by how much they understand about the system and the rules governing it. If the audience knows few details, the system may seem softer, whereas more information can make it appear harder.

Why does the speaker argue that magic systems should not be solely focused on problem-solving?

The speaker believes that while magic can be used to solve problems in a story, it should also serve to create a sense of wonder and immerse the reader in the world. A balance between these functions can lead to a more engaging and dynamic narrative.

What does the speaker mean when they say that magic systems can 'integrate themselves with the world'?

The speaker is suggesting that when magic is deeply intertwined with the world's lore and setting, it becomes more than just a tool for characters. It contributes to the atmosphere and wonder of the story, often leading to a 'softer' magic system where the specifics are less important.

How does the speaker view the role of character knowledge in the perception of a magic system?

The speaker points out that characters within a story may perceive the magic as 'hard' if they understand its rules and mechanisms, while the audience may still perceive it as 'soft' if they are not privy to the same level of detail.

What advice does the speaker give regarding the creation of magic systems in stories?

The speaker advises writers to consider the function of magic in their story, whether it's to create a sense of wonder or to solve problems, and to find a balance that works for their narrative. They also encourage experimentation and adaptation of concepts like 'hard' and 'soft' magic to suit the individual story's needs.