Ah, epic fantasy. That marvellous genre that transports us from the mundanity of everyday life to realms where dragons soar, dark lords brood, and heroes embark on grand adventures.

But what exactly is it about these fantastical worlds that readers across the globe find so enthralling?

Today, we shall take a look at the influence and importance of Epic Fantasy, a genre that has inspired generations to dream of the impossible.  

Escaping the Rain, One Page at a Time

Let’s face it, the weather in the UK can be a bit dreich (that’s Scottish for ‘dreary’, for those not in the know). As the rain patters on our windows (and not to mention whatever’s going on this week in the news), we can’t help but long for a bit of escapism. And what better way to do so than by diving into a world where the sun shines bright, the grass is always green, and the only rain that falls is the sort that fuels the growth of magical plants?

Epic Fantasy provides us with the perfect portal to such worlds. We can traverse the vast deserts of Arrakis, scale the heights of the Misty Mountains, or even hitch a ride on a dragon as we leave the drizzle behind. And the best part? We can do it all from the comfort of our own homes, with a nice cuppa tea in hand.  

Inspiring the Next Generation of Adventurers (and Authors)

Epic fantasy has an uncanny ability to ignite our imaginations. Many of us remember the thrill of reading The Hobbit or The Chronicles of Narnia for the first time, our minds filled with images of daring quests and magical realms.

These tales of heroism and enchantment have a lasting impact, inspiring countless readers to embark on their own creative journeys. In fact, some of the most successful authors in recent years have been heavily influenced by epic fantasy. From George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire to Patrick Rothfuss’s The Kingkiller Chronicle, these works owe a great debt to the fantasy classics that came before them.

And let’s not forget the legions of fan fiction writers who have honed their craft by exploring the worlds of their favourite stories.  Who knows, perhaps the next Brandon Sanderson is currently scribbling away, inspired by the very books they once devoured as a child.  

Not Just for Dreamers: Epic Fantasy’s Cultural Impact

Epic fantasy is not merely a source of entertainment—it has also had a significant impact on modern culture. From fashion to architecture, the influence of these fantastical worlds can be seen in various aspects of our daily lives. Take, for example, the surge in popularity of medieval-themed events like renaissance faires and LARP (live action role-playing) sessions.  These gatherings allow enthusiasts to don the garb of knights and wizards, effectively bringing their favourite fantasy worlds to life. Meanwhile, the architectural designs of buildings like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and New Zealand’s Hobbiton showcase the genre’s impact on construction and design. In short, epic fantasy has shaped not only our imaginations but also the very world we live in.  

One World to Rule Them All (or Unite Them, At Least)

In today’s increasingly fractured world, epic fantasy serves as a unifying force (so long as you stay away from some of more extreme fan groups on Reddit). It transcends cultural barriers, as readers from different backgrounds can bond over their shared love for these tales. In this sense, the genre serves as a reminder of our shared humanity, a testament to the power of storytelling to bring people together. So, the next time you curl up with a hefty tome of epic fantasy, just remember—you’re not merely indulging in a spot of escapism. You’re partaking in a grand tradition that has sparked creativity, shaped culture, and united people from all walks of life. And that is a story worth celebrating.

If you love epic fantasy as much as I do, you can get the Ravenglass Universe starter library for free when you join my newsletter. https://subscribepage.com/ravenglassuniverse

The post Why Epic Fantasy Matters: A Look at its Influence and Importance first appeared on Jon Cronshaw.