Timelines and Fiction: When Reality Meets Imagination

When we think of fiction, we often associate it with the here and now, the present moment in which it is published or created. However, a fascinating facet of storytelling is the ability of authors, filmmakers, and creators to transport audiences to alternate timelines far removed from their own publishing dates. This practice is not only common but integral to the breadth and depth of the literary and film world.

The Reality of Fictional Timelines

Indeed, most works of fiction either directly or indirectly explore settings and narratives that are distinct from the timeline within which they were written and published. This phenomenon is especially prevalent in genres such as historical literature, science fiction, and even certain westerns. These stories often reflect the alternating timelines of the past, future, or even a simultaneous convergence of multiple time periods within the same narrative.

Why is This So Common?

The reason for this phenomenon lies in the nature of fiction and human imagination. Authors and creators are not bound by the current reality; instead, they can slip effortlessly into the past, the future, or parallel timelines, thus crafting narratives that are timeless and transcendent. It is rare for any work of fiction to capture the exact pulse of the present moment and be published in real-time.

For instance, many classical novels and literary works have their roots in historical events long past. Authors of historical novels and biographies often spend years researching and immersing themselves in the historical context to accurately set their works. This process allows them to authentically depict past timelines, making the stories feel both current and lasting. Similarly, works of science fiction often predict or imagine future scenarios, creating a timeline that is vastly different from the here and now.

Examples Across Genres

Let's delve into some specific examples from various forms of fiction:

Books and Novels

Historical fiction, such as The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett, which is set in the 12th century, would not be as compelling or impactful if it were written only about the author's current historical context. Similarly, George Orwell's 1984, despite its name referring to a specific year, feels almost prophetic in its portrayal of a dystopian future.

Movies and Films

Everywhere We Go, a film set in a future where the human population has been relocated to space, showcases a creative and forward-looking timeline. The Martian, based on a novel by Andy Weir, sets its story on a distant Mars, a setting far removed from when the story was conceived and filmed.

TV Series and Video Games

In the case of TV series like The Expanse, which spans multiple millennia and even different timelines within the same show, the creators have the flexibility to explore diverse and extensive timelines. Video games, like Bioshock, which is set in a dystopian dystopia in 1960, illustrate a future that is well outside the present-day context.

The Impact of Timelines in Fiction

These alternative timelines in fiction have a profound impact on the way we engage with the stories, characters, and themes they present. They allow for a greater degree of depth and complexity, as well as the exploration of unintended consequences and unexpected outcomes.

For example, the timeline in The Walking Dead series spans decades, following the evolution of a post-apocalyptic world. This timeline not only serves to establish the context for the story but also allows for the development of long-term character arcs and dramatic shifts in the world's landscape.

Conclusion

Whether through the exploration of historical events, speculative futures, or parallel timelines, the concept of working with different timelines in fiction is far more common than we might initially think. This practice enriches the storytelling process, allows for greater creativity, and ultimately provides audiences with a richer and more compelling narrative experience.