What Do You Dislike About Fantasy Worlds and Why?

Fantasy literature and cinema have long captivated readers and viewers with their imaginative and often aspirational worlds. However, not every aspect of a well-crafted fantasy universe is without flaws, especially when it comes to how these worlds represent real-world issues and operational logistics. In this article, we explore some common issues in fantasy worlds and the reasons why they might be seen as problematic by many fans of the genre.

Using Fantasy to Address Real-World Issues

One frequent point of contention among fantasy enthusiasts is when authors use fantastical scenarios to address real-world issues, often taking a starkly unsavory position. A prime example of this criticism can be seen in Christopher Nolan's 2012 film The Dark Knight Returns. In this adaptation, the narrative frequently highlights the widespread misery of Gotham's populace, culminating in a scene where individuals living in the city sewers rise to the surface to protest against the authorities. Despite their disadvantaged position, these individuals are labeled as a "mob" or "Bane's army" by both the captions in the film and in Wikipedia articles. The authorities are unable to handle the situation, and it is Batman, portrayed as a wealthy millionaire fighting crime as a side venture, who ultimately resolves the conflict with his advanced gadgetry.

The message conveyed through this storyline is strikingly clear: the protagonists, as economic elites, are seen as the ones who must restore order to a chaotic populace, which is primarily defined by their socioeconomic status. This resonates heavily with the context of the movie's release, 2012, which was still fresh in the minds of many Americans amid the memory of the Occupy Wall Street movement. The implication is that while the protesters are poor and thus moral questionable, the protagonists are justified in their forceful, elitist response to public unrest. However, it is important to note that not all fantasy works take such a divisive stance.

Logical and Logistical Flaws

Another common critique of some fantasy worlds is the lack of logistical infrastructure required to sustain that world. In many settings, it is unclear how the population manages basic needs such as food, water, and energy without some form of infrastructure. For instance, in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, Hogwarts students write on parchment, implying that goats and cows provide the material. This raises questions about the supply chain and ecosystem that supports such a magical need. Who actually farms and manages these animals? Does the world have a surplus of parchment, or is the supply precarious?

A similar issue arises in the Star Wars universe, where travel between worlds and time dilation come into play. If characters travel through space, it's not clear how they account for the time dilation effects described by relativity. Do they use advanced technology to equalize the time difference, or do they simply ignore the effects? These logical inconsistencies can detract from the overall believability of the story, making it harder for readers and viewers to lose themselves in the world.

Ecosystems and Governments in Fantasy Worlds

Fantasy worlds often present a simplistic view of ecosystems, frequently featuring one or two overarching ecosystems dominating an entire world. This is particularly problematic when considering the ecological complexity of real-world environments, where multiple ecosystems coexist in various scales. In many fantasy novels, the existence of a single ecosystem aligns with the world's lore and magic, but it can feel artificial and disconnected from the real-world understanding of biodiversity.

Similarly, the governance structures in these worlds often follow a straightforward, often monarchial or singular power structure, retaining a single ruler or small group of elites. This can be seen as unrealistic, especially in comparison to the complexity and diversity of real-world government systems. Why, for instance, do fantasy worlds with magical capabilities and advanced cultures fail to develop more dynamic and complex governmental systems? This simplicity can make the world feel unconvincing to readers and viewers who are well-versed in the intricacies of real-world politics.

Conclusion

Fantasy worlds offer a fascinating escape from reality, allowing creators and readers to explore new ideas and possibilities. However, it is important to consider the logical and ethical implications of certain narratives, particularly when they address real-world issues. By striving for more realistic, believable, and diverse world-building, fantasy authors can enhance the depth and richness of their creations, making the stories more engaging and impactful for their audiences.

Through a critical look at these common issues, fantasy enthusiasts can continue to refine the genre, ensuring that it not only entertains but also challenges and reflects on the complexities of our own world.