How to write a myth

You write a myth the same way you write any story. This means that the characters and setting must be equally important to you, the writer, when writing a myth. Most importantly, edit and revise it to make it perfect. Here are some tips on how to write a myth.

1)     When you write a myth: find inspiration

Keep an idea notebook: as soon as a situation, a question, a dream inspires you, you can write down this flash and use it for your story. If you find yourself stuck in your story, taking a step back and letting your mind wander in a situation where it is efficient (walking, running, showering…) can be a good way to channel your inspiration.

2)     Start with a mystery

A mystery intrigues your reader, viewer or player. Plus, for a fantasy world, having a fantasy aspect is still pretty obvious. Think of our world and draw the parallel. The simple myths of a society’s creation, or its destruction, also help build a people’s culture. A myth can be part of the cultural heritage.

3)     When you write a myth: find a reason

Understand how myths and urban legends work. The story must appeal to readers, it must evoke their emotions in some way, and it must be plausible. One of the main things to keep in mind when writing a myth is that they are cautionary tales. Ask yourself, what do people learn from myth?

4)     Think of a hero

The hero of the story is usually someone impressive and admirable. Some heroes have “super powers”, or they are just very brave. Make a choice: Is your hero blessed, did he/she train hard, or was he/she just born that way? What kind of person would you admire, or who do you think best fits the real world?

When you write a myth, it can ultimately serve your plot. No matter how, it is a way to justify a storyline choice, to add a twist, a subplot (or even a part of the main plot) or to help the hero or hinder him. Think of the practicality of myths as the cornerstone of your story.