#SettingAsCharacter

[heroickseraph]

How World Building Helped Me

In the world of fiction, settings serve as the canvas upon which the author can paint the story. They aren't just mere physical locations; they are living, breathing entities that contribute to the narrative's atmosphere, themes, and overall impact. They do not exist in real life - only in the narrative of the author who created them. Thus, they have a deeper meaning to them. The beauty of cultural diversity is its ability to shape these settings, infusing them with unique traditions, beliefs, and ways of life that transport the readers to unfamiliar yet captivating worlds.

Let's imagine a fictional village somewhere in the Himalayas. In this village, the reader can be transported to a place where the majestic peaks of the mountains loom in the distance, and the colorful prayer flags flutter in the crisp air. Harmony manifested itself with an architectural blend of wood and stone, adorned with intricate carvings that tell the stories of generations past. The inhabitants, dressed in traditional clothing, gather at the central square for a vibrant festival celebrating their cultural heritage. The atmosphere is quiet and one can hear the soothing chirping of birds.

It is important to note here that introducing a certain fictional character adds extra depth to the context. It becomes easier to understand cultural diversity through the eyes of people who practice these cultures.

Here, the influence of diversity is profound. The setting becomes a character in itself, influencing the entire plot and the interactions of the story's protagonists. The tranquility of the Himalayan backdrop sets a different tone compared to the hustle and bustle of a crowded city. The cultural context of this environment shapes the characters' daily lives, their values, and the challenges they face. By introducing certain elements in the piece of writing, the reader can become accustomed to the new setting just by using his imagination.

Some fictional characters from certain settings are sometimes introduced to other ones. That creates an opportunity for the writer to explore the cross-cultural exchange. Let's assume that a tourist from a metropolitan city visits the Himalayan village. That introduction can open many doors to a wider and richer narrative. The interactions between the tourist and the villagers can further highlight the description of the setting.

The cultural diversity embedded in the setting enriches the story's themes and messages. Whether it's a tale of love, resilience, or self-discovery, the cultural landscape becomes an integral part of the narrative. Readers are not only involved in the plot but also gain a deeper portrayal of the cultural values that shape the characters' lives. This immersion allows readers to appreciate and connect with the cultural elements, fostering empathy and curiosity about worlds they might not have encountered otherwise. After all, the Himalayan village on paper doesn't have to completely resemble the real villages in the Himalayan mountains. However, certain rules have to be respected to maintain the authenticity of the setting.

The setting's cultural authenticity is paramount. Any author must embark on research journeys, read books by authors from the culture they're portraying, and engage in conversations with individuals from that culture - if possible. This dedication to accuracy ensures that the setting doesn't fall into the trap of stereotypes or misrepresentations but instead becomes a window into a unique world that readers can explore and respect.

In essence, world-building is the medium where the magic of cultural diversity truly shines in fiction writing. It's where the pages come alive with the colors, sounds, and stories of different cultures. These settings aren't just backdrops; they are vehicles for cultural exploration, understanding, and appreciation. The next time you lose yourself in a novel set in a far-off land, remember that you're not just reading a story—you're embarking on a journey into the heart of a different culture, and in doing so, you're expanding your own horizons as well.