How to Study the Works of Other Fantasy Writers to Level Up Your Own Craft

“We stand upon the shoulders of giants.”

Maybe you’ve heard this quote before; it’s something I live by when working on my creative projects. It means that the works of others who came before us can lift us- and what we make- to the highest of heights. They’ve already done a huge portion of the hard work, and in a way, we pay respect to them by learning what we can from their expertise.

When it comes to writing your own fantasy works, be they short stories or full-length novels, reading is as essential as writing itself. But reading the genre intentionally – with a critical writer’s eye – is what transforms your understanding of story, style, and worldbuilding in ways that can directly elevate your own work. If you’re just starting out or honing your craft, studying the work of successful fantasy writers can give you invaluable insights and inspiration. Here’s how to approach reading fantasy in a way that goes beyond just being a fan of the story and helps you grow as a writer.

Step 1: Observe Worldbuilding with a Critical Eye

Fantasy worlds can feel vast and endlessly complex, but the most immersive ones are crafted with care and precision. When studying a work from another author, pay close attention to how the writer reveals the world to the reader. Is it done in small, tantalizing details or in sweeping descriptions? For instance, Tolkien slowly unveils Middle-earth by showing it through his characters’ perspectives, letting readers discover each location as the characters do. As you read, take notes on what stands out: the sensory details, the social systems, or the magic systems. Consider how the writer integrates these elements seamlessly into the story; by breaking down their worldbuilding techniques, you can understand how to create a world that feels both believable and enchanting. Think about the books you’ve read before and what sticks in your head about them.

Step 2: Analyze Characterization and Dialogue

Fantasy narratives often features a mix of characters, from wizards to warriors to regular people caught in extraordinary circumstances in fantastic settings. Notice how the writer brings these characters to life – not just through descriptions, but through actions, dialogue, and subtle clues that reveal personality. Think about what makes the protagonist relatable or the villain formidable. For example, in A Song of Ice and Fire, George R.R. Martin gives depth to each character by showing both their motivations and their flaws, making even minor characters memorable. As you read, consider how you can make your own characters feel as complex and real. Look at how the dialogue works to establish relationships, build tension, or reveal secrets, and ask yourself how you might bring these techniques into your own writing.

Step 3: Study the Structure and Pacing

Pacing and structure are crucial to maintaining reader interest, especially in longer stories or series. Observe how the author sets up the story’s rhythm. Are there quiet, introspective moments between high-stakes scenes? Do the chapters end with cliffhangers or satisfying conclusions? Take Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn series as an example; he balances worldbuilding with action and emotional arcs, using a mix of high and low-energy moments to keep readers engaged. As you read, notice how the author organizes their chapters and how the story’s momentum shifts. Think about how this structure could apply to your own work.; could you incorporate more tension by staggering action with quieter character moments? Even a simple scene where your protagonists are sitting around a campfire and having a conversation can reveal things like relationship dynamics, character traits, lore, and so much more.

Step 4: Look for Themes and Underlying Messages

Great fantasy often explores themes that resonate beyond the world of the story. As you study different works, identify the core themes and think about how they’re woven into the plot, setting, and character journeys. In The Lord of the Rings, themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the struggle against corruption are woven deeply into the characters’ quests. Understanding how themes can enrich a story can inspire you to think about what you want to say in your own work. What issues or values are important to you, and how could they manifest within a fantasy setting? There are readers out there who also share those values or concerns, and the way you present them can not only help your audience identify with characters, but it’s totally possible to change someone’s life by offering a new perspective or inspiration.

Step 5: Reflect on Style and Language Choices

Each writer brings their unique voice to their work, and noticing these stylistic choices can help you shape your own. Observe how authors use language – whether they lean toward the poetic or the straightforward, the whimsical or the darkly atmospheric. Take note of descriptive passages, dialogue flow, and the cadence of sentences. Neil Gaiman’s prose, for instance, often carries a lyrical, dreamlike quality that suits his blend of dark fantasy and folklore. You don’t need to copy another writer’s style (and nor should you- find you own!), but understanding how they achieve their tone can help you refine your own voice.

Bringing It All Together

As you study each book that you pick up, try to avoid pure imitation. Instead, use what you’ve observed to expand your own toolkit. Be intentional about applying techniques that resonate with you; don’t be afraid to experiment with pacing, character depth, or stylistic flair in your drafts. By reading with a writer’s mindset, you’ll start to see each book not only as a source of enjoyment but as a lesson in craft. The more thoughtfully you approach reading, the more you’ll grow – until, before you know it, your own writing reflects the wisdom of all those fantastical worlds you’ve explored. That is when you truly stand upon the shoulders of giants, and someday, aspiring authors will strive to stand upon yours.