Haunter: could the genre also be a generally magical environment confined in some ways by the real; that is, the system of magic has an underlying, unbreakable structure to it? That is, it's not simply waving a wand and reciting some words, but there's a, I don't know, physics to it? A give-and-take, is what I've most often seen. The reason I'm so curious is because I have an idea for a fantasy in the works that has that specific issue--the magic has a very complex structure to it that is bound by a kind of realism.

 I suppose we could have a whole discussion about the flaws of genre unto itself, but it's still interesting to pick apart.

I suppose it could be extrapolated that way, but from what I've seen, elements of the real are prominent, usually in setting. Logic, however, is what is lacking from normality. Kind of like Surrealism, but with some sense of structure. (Wikipedia probably says it better than I could ever say it: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magical_Realism#Literature)

...generally typified by a generally realistic environment twisted in some way by supernaturality.

Haunter: could the genre also be a generally magical environment confined in some ways by the real; that is, the system of magic has an underlying, unbreakable structure to it? That is, it's not simply waving a wand and reciting some words, but there's a, I don't know, physics to it? A give-and-take, is what I've most often seen. The reason I'm so curious is because I have an idea for a fantasy in the works that has that specific issue--the magic has a very complex structure to it that is bound by a kind of realism.

 I suppose we could have a whole discussion about the flaws of genre unto itself, but it's still interesting to pick apart.

Allie: I'm horribly jealous you got to go to Rome. I want to go there someday myself--I hear it's beautiful--and yes, there is such history to the place. I took a course on Roman history last semester, and it really opened my eyes to the world. Once you start studying things like Latin, Greek, or Roman history, you realize how much of this world we took from earlier times. Definitely worth studying, and by no means "super corny." I encourage you to keep studying it!

Bet I don't prove you wrong, Inkblot Scribe, I just find them "horribly" entertaining.  As for studies in Greek and Latin?  Well, I took "Latin Foundations" in high school, but found I knew a lot more about the subject, or at least an equal amount as my teacher.  I personally just love reading Greek mythology, hearing it, learning it, etc.  I did get to go to Rome last year (for a day) and was completely blown away by the history.  I know it sounds super corny, but walking along the streets just takes you back; highly recommend it, even if you don't like ancient societies. 

Haunter in the Dork, is this the same concept you have in regards to Dark Magical Realism? I'd like to know about what you mean by that more. It sounds interesting.

It's a hard genre to classify, but its generally typified by a generally realistic environment twisted in some way by supernaturality. Either insidiously watching from the wings, as a single horrible, ever-present variable or as an impending threat. It's kind of a wide umbrella, I must admit, but it's fun to play with.

Thanks for your contributions, guys. I'm always interested to see how prolific the fantasy genre is. I'll admit, I have my fantasy streaks here and there too, though now I seem to be sticking mostly with soft sci-fi and historical. I also tend to play with what I like to call the real surreal, that is, creating surreal elements within the story that aren't manifested by the supernatural. I don't know why, but I find it exponentially more creepy when a story has a mysterious element that seems supernatural, but isn't. You'll surely see more of this in my work later on. Haunter in the Dork, is this the same concept you have in regards to Dark Magical Realism? I'd like to know about what you mean by that more. It sounds interesting.

And Allie, you're of course very welcome in this circle. Don't fret if you feel you're "not up to par" with other writers--we're glad to help you develop your writing, no matter what level of writing you're currently at. I'm currently holding back from laughing about your interest in romance novels, I'll admit, but I'm biased--my ex was a fan of the most terrible kinds of romance novels. I bet you can prove me wrong and redeem the genre.

 Also, if you have an interest in Greek mythology--have you done any studies in Latin or Greek language? I'd highly encourage it, if you have the interest!

Hey, I'm new, But (the dreaded but) (and this sounds random) I was wondering if I could join your circle.  I don't pretend to be any good, and I have dreams of being great but no real hopes of accomplishing them, but all the same I have "tried" to write a few "novels" so far.  I'm personally a fantasy and, don't laugh, "romance" writer (not like the romances in the romance section of borders just little "teenage" whimsical renderings).  I started when I was a freshman in high school, and finished then, at least one work.  It's not very good, really reminiscent of some lame events, but I find myself fascinated by "revisin" mythology, particularly Greek, to suit my own needs and whims.  

The novels I write always seem to be fantasy or related to fantasy in some way. My first novel attempt was sort of science fiction-ish fantasy, the second attempt was straight fantasy, the third (which I finished and am seeking publication for presently) was contemporary fantasy with strong veins of science fiction in it, and the novel I'm working on now is... well, I guess you could call it post apocalyptic fiction The fantasy bits in it don't come until a ways in.

I can't really say that I'm too much of a novelist, but when I write, I fall into that ol' standby of mine. Dark Magical Realism, Surrealist Horror, Thriller, Fantasy... some abomination cobbled together from all of the above.  

Novelists unite: What is your favorite kind of novel to write? Mystery? Sci-Fi? Western? And why that specific genre?