Comments on: Fables & Fairy Tales

By: Euphrasie

Euphrasie — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 19:02:18 +0000

I can deal with poor execution. Along with my ’suspension of disbelief,’ I seem to have a ’suspension of critical analysis’ mode. It can come in handy. But I super appreciate creative types who can execute a new idea well.

By: Chris

Chris — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 18:19:06 +0000

If we’re talking about taking an established idea and twisting it on its’ head, I’d like to point to L.E. Modesitt and the Recluce saga. His concept of Order and Chaos as a system of magic could, in some ways, also serve as a philosophy. I picked up the Magic of Recluce on a whim several years back, simply for the cover, and ended up having to read it three or four times just to wrap my head around the way Modesitt created an entire world so simple and yet so complex at the same time.

Also, big shout out for Fables, one of my favorite series in recent memories. I’ve heard that ABC is looking to adapt this into a show, which scares me.

By: Jeremy

Jeremy — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:42:42 +0000

execution does trump origianality, but a story needs both. An origianal story well executed, is obviously better than, an unorigianal story well executed. on the other hand a well-executed story is better than one that is simply, origianal.

By: Caroline

Caroline — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 16:39:21 +0000

I’ll take the well-executed story over originality any day. In fact, I love reading endless interpretations of fairy tales and fables; it feels closer to some of the old oral traditions. It’s interesting to explore what it is that connects the story- how many details can you change before it’s no longer Cinderella, and just another Marry-the-Prince fantasy?

By: Morgan

Morgan — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:12:19 +0000

I have to admit, poor writing drives me nuts. But if you’re looking for fresh takes on mythology/folklore, my vote goes to Juliet Marillier - I’m really enjoying the sub-genre of fantasy that is dubbed ‘historic fiction.’ If you’re interested in Irish folklore, that’s the way to go. If you’re looking for something a little more spicy, Jacqueline Carey’s Kushiel series does an interesting take on some Judeo-Christian themes. As for an interesting magic system - I believe Weis and Hickman’s Deathgate Cycle is the most in-depth I’ve seen a series go.

By: Mari

Mari — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:07:35 +0000

I’m not fussy: If I get any of the two, I’ll continue reading. If I had to choose, I’d probably prefer a good idea with poor execution to the opposite, simply because a good idea is more likely to stay with me for longer than excellent writing.

By: Max Lybbert

Max Lybbert — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 06:34:25 +0000

On the one hand, poor execution often distracts me. Especially if I’ve noticed the same flaws in my writing (for instance, too many asides, like this one).

On the other, I have managed to read through clunky translations of really good books, and become a big fan of the author. You haven’t seen poor execution until you’ve read a clunky translation.

So, to answer the question, I’m more forgiving of poor execution when I realize it’s not really the author’s fault. But there is a point where it distracts me too much to see the neat-o new creative ideas the writer is putting down on paper.

By: Brad

Brad — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 04:59:04 +0000

It’s not what you asked, but my answer has to be “both.” I’m not going to a read a book that doesn’t execute an original idea well. You don’t really need to worry about that, though! The Mistborn series was the most original system of magic I’ve ever seen, the science-guy in me loved it… heck, it was barely even magic! Instead, it was just awesome.

That said, I’d like to see more fantasy novels NOT take place in eras of castles and kings and whatnot. Of course, there’s always a place for these types of stories.