Category: Blog

10 Signs You’re in a Zombie Apocalypse: A Survivor’s Checklist

Discover the top 10 signs that you might be living in a zombie apocalypse. From deserted streets to unusual neighborly behavior, this guide helps you identify the hallmarks of a world overrun by zombies, essential reading for survival enthusiasts.

As a devotee of zombie fiction, you’re doubtless well-versed in the signs of an impending apocalypse.

However, in the unlikely event that you’re caught unawares, here are ten definitive signs that you’re living through a zombie apocalypse.

After all, forewarned is forearmed – quite literally in this scenario.

  1. The Sudden Lack of Morning Traffic: You wake up to find the streets eerily empty.

The usual symphony of honking cars is replaced by an unsettling silence, broken only by the distant, forlorn groans.

It’s like Bank Holiday Monday, but every day, and with more cannibalism.

  1. Your Neighbour’s New Diet: Speaking of cannibalism, Mrs. Higgins next door no longer waves cheerily over the fence.

Instead, she’s developed an alarming new diet that seems to consist exclusively of passersby.

It’s one way to address the issue of noisy tourists, I suppose.

  1. Unorthodox Fashion Choices: The living dead aren’t known for their sartorial elegance.

If you see more and more people shambling about in torn, blood-stained clothes, it might not be a new fashion trend.

It’s either the zombie apocalypse or an extremely avant-garde runway show.

  1. Mobile Networks Down: Unable to update your social media status or call for a pizza, you realise that mobile networks are down.

In the zombie apocalypse, the only ‘tweets’ you’ll hear are the ominous cawing of crows over desolate streets.

  1. The 24/7 News Cycle Becomes the 24/7 ‘We’re All Doomed’ Cycle: News channels switch from their regular programming to a constant stream of distressing reports from around the globe.

It’s like election coverage, but somehow even more apocalyptic.

  1. Unexplained Power Outages: As if to add insult to injury, the power grid fails.

Now you can’t even binge-watch your favourite zombie series for tips.

You’re left in the dark, both literally and figuratively.

  1. The Sudden Relevance of Your ‘Zombie Survival Guide’: That book you bought as a joke is now your most prized possession.

You find yourself consulting it for tips on barricading your home – practical DIY at its most extreme.

  1. Gardening Tools Become Weapons of Choice: Suddenly, your garden shed is an armoury.

That spade you once used for planting petunias is now a means of survival.

Who knew gardening could be so… intense?

  1. Supermarkets Turn into Scenes from a Dystopian Movie: The weekly grocery run becomes a fight for survival.

Supermarkets are either deserted or overrun by zombies perusing the aisles for fresh produce, and by fresh produce, I mean you.

  1. The Sheer Number of Walking Dead Jokes: Despite the grim circumstances, you can’t help but notice that everyone’s become a comedian, cracking jokes about ‘legless’ and ‘armless’ zombies.

It seems dark humour is a coping mechanism in the end times.

So there you have it, ten signs that the zombie apocalypse is upon us.

Keep your wits about you, your garden tools sharp, and perhaps most importantly, maintain a sense of humour – you’re going to need it.

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The Enduring Influence of Jack Vance’s Dying Earth on Modern Fantasy

Delve into the captivating world of Jack Vance’s Dying Earth series and its significant impact on modern fantasy literature. Discover how Vance’s unique blend of whimsy, elaborate world-building, and innovative magic system has shaped the genre’s evolution


In the labyrinthine annals of fantasy literature, few works have cast as long and as quirky a shadow as Jack Vance’s ‘Dying Earth‘ series.

Its influence percolates through modern fantasy much like a fine, yet slightly unnerving, wine.

The series, set in a far, far future where the sun is a mere flicker on the brink of eternal night, blends sorcery and super-science in a way that makes you question whether Vance was writing fantasy, sci-fi, or inventing a new genre entirely.

And let’s not forget the magic system, where spells are so mind-bogglingly complex, they would give even the most astute Hogwarts graduate a migraine.

Indeed, the echoes of Vance’s work can be seen in the spellcasting of Dungeons & Dragons, where wizards must memorize spells and then forget them upon casting, much like trying to remember the lyrics to Bohemian Rhapsody after a few pints.

This idiosyncratic approach to magic, where one must essentially cram for a supernatural exam, has been adopted, adapted, and applauded by fantasy enthusiasts worldwide.

Furthermore, the ‘Dying Earth’ presents a peculiar mélange of high-falutin language and low-brow shenanigans.

Characters converse in a manner so florid and verbose that it makes Shakespeare seem like he’s writing in text-speak.

Yet, these same eloquent characters are as likely to pick your pocket as quote a sonnet, blending the grandiose with the gutter in a dance of the sublime and the ridiculous.

This narrative style, simultaneously grand and sly, has inspired a generation of fantasy writers to be bold with their prose and sneaky with their plot twists.

Vance’s work is also a masterclass in world-building, painting a universe so rich and textured that it feels like a tapestry woven by a slightly deranged, yet highly skilled, medieval monk.

His vision of a far-future Earth, teetering on the brink of entropy, sets the stage for tales that are as much about the peculiarities of human (and non-human) nature as they are about grand adventures.

It’s a setting where you’re as likely to encounter a melancholy robot as a sorcerer lamenting the loss of a particularly potent spell, like someone mourning the discontinuation of their favourite brand of tea.

The ‘Dying Earth’ series has, in its own peculiar way, expanded the horizons of fantasy literature.

It has shown that the genre can be more than just dragons and knights, but a space where the imagination can run wild in a playground of the bizarre and the brilliant.

Vance’s ‘Dying Earth’ series has not just left an impact on modern fantasy; it’s given it a good, hard, albeit loving, kick in the behind.

It’s a reminder that fantasy can be as deep as it is whimsical, and that sometimes, to find the truly extraordinary, one must be willing to take a stroll through the absurd.

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The Trope of the Underdog in Fantasy Literature

Explore the captivating world of underdogs in fantasy literature, where unlikely heroes from Frodo Baggins to Vin take center stage. Discover how these relatable characters, with their struggles and triumphs, add depth and resonance to fantasy tales, making them more engaging and inspiring for readers.

In the grand arena of fantasy literature, where heroes are often as muscular and shiny as a knight’s armour, the underdog stands out like a sore thumb – albeit a determined, plucky sore thumb.

The trope of the underdog is as prevalent in fantasy as misplaced magic wands, offering a narrative arc as satisfying as finding a secret room in a haunted castle.

A Hero Unlikely to Win, But Tries Anyway

The underdog is typically as well-equipped for their journey as a knight heading into battle armed with a teaspoon.

They’re the farm boy who’s more familiar with pigs than dragons, the scrawny apprentice who can barely lift a sword, or the unassuming hobbit who’s never ventured beyond their front garden.

These characters embark on quests that seem about as well-advised as a stroll through a dragon’s den wearing armour made of gold.

Why We Root for the Underdog

There’s something inherently appealing about cheering on someone who’s about as likely to succeed as a snowball in a furnace.

Perhaps it’s their tenacity in the face of insurmountable odds, or maybe it’s just human nature to support the little guy.

After all, who hasn’t felt like an underdog at some point, battling the metaphorical dragons of our everyday lives?

Notable Underdogs in Fantasy

Frodo Baggins in ‘The Lord of the Rings‘: A hobbit who’d much rather be at home but ends up carrying the most dangerous item in the world.

Neville Longbottom in ‘Harry Potter‘: The boy who was almost the Chosen One, but turned out to be a hero in his own right, proving that bravery comes in different forms.

Vin in ‘Mistborn‘: A street urchin who discovers she has powers that could change the world, despite her initial disbelief in her own abilities.

The Underdog’s Journey: A Reflection of Real Life

The underdog’s journey often mirrors our own struggles.

They don’t just face external foes; they battle self-doubt, fear, and the disbelief of those around them.

Their victories are as much about overcoming their inner demons as they are about defeating the dark lord or evil empire.

The Impact on Fantasy Literature

The underdog trope has nudged fantasy literature away from the omnipotent, flawless hero towards more relatable, flawed characters.

It’s introduced a level of humanity and vulnerability to fantasy that allows readers to see a bit of themselves in the characters.

It reminds us that sometimes, the greatest power lies not in strength or magic, but in resilience and the courage to keep going, even when the odds are about as favourable as a picnic in a troll’s cave.

The Lasting Appeal of the Underdog

In the world of fantasy literature, the underdog continues to reign supreme, a testament to the enduring appeal of seeing the least likely amongst us rise to the challenge.

They remind us that heroism comes in all shapes and sizes, often emerging from the most unlikely of places.

In celebrating the underdog, fantasy literature doesn’t just tell us a story; it gives us hope – hope that even the smallest among us can change the world, armed with nothing but courage and a teaspoon.

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Lost Civilisations and Fantasy: Graham Hancock as Story Fuel

Discover the intriguing impact of Graham Hancock’s theories on modern fantasy literature. This post explores how his ideas about ancient civilisations and lost knowledge inspire fantasy authors to craft captivating, boundary-pushing narratives.

In the labyrinthine library of modern fantasy literature, ancient myths and forgotten histories mingle with tales of magic and wonder.

One name stands out as an unlikely yet fascinating muse: Graham Hancock.

Hancock is known for his controversial theories on ancient civilisations and lost worlds.

His work has rippled through the fantasy genre.

It inspires authors to look beyond the known and into the realms of what-if.

Let’s embark on a journey, not to uncover lost civilisations, but to discover how Hancock’s unconventional ideas have left their mark on the fantastical worlds we escape to.

Ancient Mysteries: Hancock’s Historical Concoction

Before we dive into the fantastical, a quick detour into the real (or unreal, depending on whom you ask).

Graham Hancock’s work, such as “Fingerprints of the Gods,” posits theories of advanced ancient civilisations and cataclysmic events that have shaped human history.

While mainstream archaeology might raise an eyebrow (or two) at his hypotheses, there’s no denying their allure for storytellers.

Lost Worlds and Hidden Knowledge: Fuel for Fantasy

Hancock’s portrayal of lost worlds and forgotten advanced civilisations has provided a treasure trove of inspiration for fantasy literature.

Authors have long been drawn to the idea of ancient, hidden knowledge and civilisations that have achieved wonders beyond our current understanding.

In weaving these elements into their narratives, fantasy writers create worlds where the line between the possible and the impossible is tantalisingly blurred.

The Appeal of the Outlandish: Stretching Imagination’s Limits

One might argue that Hancock’s theories themselves read like fantasy.

This blurring of history and imagination challenges authors to stretch the limits of their creativity.

In a genre where readers are always hungry for originality, Hancock’s work serves as a reminder that sometimes the most engaging stories are those that dare to venture into the realm of the ‘unbelievably true.’

Cataclysms and Apocalypses: Echoes of Ancient Disasters

Hancock’s emphasis on global cataclysms and their impact on human history resonates deeply within the fantasy genre.

The concept of world-altering disasters, whether through natural or magical means, is a common trope in fantasy literature.

Hancock’s work inspires authors to explore the implications of such cataclysms on societies, cultures, and the very landscape of their fictional worlds.

Mysteries Uncovered: The Quest for Lost Truth

At the heart of Hancock’s work is the quest for lost truth, an idea that is inherently compelling in storytelling.

This notion has inspired fantasy narratives centred around uncovering hidden histories and unravelling the secrets of ancient powers.

It’s the literary equivalent of finding a hidden tomb, except the mummies might just be metaphorical (or not).

The Hancock Effect in Fantasy Literature

Graham Hancock’s work, with its blend of history, mystery, and a dash of the controversial, has undoubtedly left its mark on modern fantasy literature.

His exploration of ancient civilisations, lost knowledge, and cataclysmic events has provided a rich source of inspiration for authors seeking to craft narratives that captivate and intrigue.

In the world of fantasy, where the past is often as magical as the future, Hancock’s theories remind us that sometimes the most fantastic stories are buried not in the pages of a book, but in the sands of time.

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Fantasy Writing Lessons from ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’

Explore how ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’ inspires fantasy writing. Delve into its dark humour, unique characters, and narrative craft, and discover how Lemony Snicket’s work can influence your own fantastical storytelling adventures.

Lemony Snicket’s “A Series of Unfortunate Events” chronicles the woeful adventures of the hapless Baudelaire orphans, Violet, Klaus, and Sunny, as they desperately try to escape the clutches of the evil Count Olaf.

With its signature melancholic tone and absurd dark comedy, “Unfortunate Events” shows fantasy writers how to craft stories that are clever, quirky, and brimming with depth.

Snicket’s world captivates through the tribulations of its tragic heroes.

Their futile struggles against misfortune teach us that fantastical stories need not rely on epic battles and chosen ones. Instead, pairing the fantastic with the mundane can create captivating contrasts.

So let’s don our most stylish eyepatches, gather suspicious-looking spyglasses, and delve into the Baudelaires’ unlucky lives.

If we are fortunate enough, we may just discover how to spin a yarn as inventive as Mr. Snicket himself.

  1. The Craft of Unreliable Narration

Lemony Snicket acts as an unreliable narrator, frequently interjecting his own views and leading the reader astray.

Fantasy authors can dabble in this narrative style to foster intrigue and lend a unique voice to their storytelling.

  1. Striking a Balance Between Darkness and Humour

The series skilfully balances sombre themes with whimsical humour.

In fantasy writing, blending humour into more sombre narratives can offer respite, enrich character development, and maintain the story’s appeal.

  1. Creating Vivid and Quirky Characters

“A Series of Unfortunate Events” teems with quirky and memorable characters.

Fantasy authors can take inspiration from this, crafting characters who are not just central to the plot but also unforgettable for their peculiarities and complexity.

  1. Constructing an Engrossing World with Meticulous Details

Set in an ambiguous and timeless locale, the world of “A Series of Unfortunate Events” brims with detail and imagination.

Fantasy writers can strive to build worlds that are equally engrossing, focusing on minute details that animate the setting.

  1. Employing Metafictional Elements

The series frequently breaks the fourth wall, with Snicket reflecting on the art of storytelling itself.

Fantasy authors can weave in metafictional elements to introduce another dimension to their narrative, engaging readers in a dialogue about the essence of stories.

  1. Harnessing Themes and Symbolism

The series abounds with themes of morality, resilience, and the essence of evil. In fantasy writing,

integrating themes and symbols can deepen the narrative, prompting readers to ponder the story’s broader implications.

  1. Adopting a Gothic and Mysterious Ambience

“A Series of Unfortunate Events” possesses a distinctive Gothic ambience, enhancing its allure and mystery.

Fantasy authors can cultivate a unique atmosphere in their worlds, be it Gothic, whimsical, dark, or ethereal, to establish the tone of their story.

“A Series of Unfortunate Events” provides a treasure trove of inspiration for fantasy authors with its mix of dark humour, distinctive characters, and inventive storytelling.

By integrating these elements, writers can craft fantasy tales that captivate and intrigue, much like the entrancing misfortunes of the Baudelaire orphans.

How will the series’ blend of humour, Gothic atmosphere, and narrative innovation shape your fantastical narratives?

Share your views, and let’s discuss how a tale of misfortune can inspire the craft of fantasy storytelling.

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Exploring Glen Cook’s “The Black Company”: A New Era in Fantasy

Delve into Glen Cook’s “The Black Company” series, a seminal work in fantasy literature that introduced gritty realism, complex anti-heroes, and a darker narrative style. Discover how this series paved the way for modern grimdark fantasy, challenging traditional heroics and reshaping the genre.

In the sparkling realm of fantasy, where heroes were as clean and shiny as a new suit of armour, Glen Cook‘s “The Black Company” series stomped in with muddy boots.

Cook took the high fantasy playbook, ran it through a shredder, and pieced it back together under a much dimmer, more dubious light.

His series, with its morally ambiguous characters and grim narrative, heralded a new era in fantasy, where the lines between good and evil weren’t just blurred – they were smudged beyond recognition.

A Different Breed of Hero: The Anti-Hero’s Rise

Before “The Black Company”, fantasy heroes were often as morally spotless as they were physically impossible.

Cook introduced us to a ragtag band of mercenaries, each with enough moral baggage to fill a dragon‘s hoard.

These weren’t your knights in shining armour; they were soldiers for hire, with motivations as complex and murky as the series’ shadowy settings.

Cook’s protagonists paved the way for the likes of Joe Abercrombie’s “Logen Ninefingers” and George R.R. Martin’s “Tyrion Lannister”, changing the fantasy hero prototype from gleaming paragon to grizzled survivor.

Narrative Style: First Person, First Rate

Cook’s decision to narrate the series from the perspective of the company’s physician, Croaker, was a masterstroke.

This first-person point of view added a gritty realism to the tale, like hearing a war story from a veteran in a dimly lit tavern.

It gave readers a front-row seat to the action and the anguishing moral dilemmas that came with it, sans the traditional heroic gloss.

The Mercenary Outlook: Cynicism as a Lens


The series’ cynical outlook was a breath of fresh (albeit slightly putrid) air in the often too-saccharine fantasy atmosphere.

Cook’s depiction of mercenaries as pragmatic survivors in a world rife with corruption and intrigue was more reflective of historical reality than the noble quests typical of the genre.

This shift towards a more realistic, jaded view of heroism and warfare resonated with readers, influencing countless authors to adopt a similar, unvarnished approach to their fantasy worlds.

Influence on Modern Fantasy: A Legacy of Grit


“The Black Company” didn’t just contribute to the birth of grimdark fantasy; it helped redefine what the genre could be.

Its influence can be seen in the wave of fantasy novels that eschew traditional heroics in favour of more complex, morally ambiguous narratives.

Cook’s series showed that fantasy could be as unflinching in its portrayal of human nature as any work of gritty historical fiction, setting a new standard for realism and character complexity in the genre.

The Dark Path Well Travelled

Glen Cook’s “The Black Company” series left an indelible mark on the fantasy landscape.

It led readers down a darker path, one where the lines between hero and villain, right and wrong, were as murky as a fog-covered battlefield.

In doing so, it opened the doors to a new realm of fantasy, where the only true constants were change and moral ambiguity.

The series stands as a testament to the genre’s capacity for evolution and its unending quest to explore the deeper, darker recesses of the human experience.

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From Mead Halls to Magic: Beowulf’s Timeless Influence on Fantasy Literature

Explore the legendary saga of ‘Beowulf’ and its profound influence on fantasy literature. Discover how this ancient epic has shaped heroes, villains, and narratives in modern fantasy, echoing through time to inspire a genre rich in mythic tales and legendary adventures.

In the shadowed, fire-lit mead halls of fantasy literature, where heroes and monsters clash in tales as old as time, one epic stands as a towering figure: “Beowulf.”

This ancient Anglo-Saxon poem, recounting the deeds of its eponymous hero against the monstrous Grendel, his mother, and a dragon, has resonated through the ages, weaving its way into the very fabric of modern fantasy.

Let’s don our mail shirts and delve into the dragon’s lair to explore how “Beowulf” has shaped the genre we love.

A Hero’s Tale: The Story of Beowulf

Before we embark, a quick refresher for those who haven’t recently set foot in Geatland.

“Beowulf” is the tale of a hero who comes to the aid of Hrothgar, the king of the Danes, whose great hall is under attack by the monstrous Grendel.

After slaying Grendel and later his vengeful mother, Beowulf returns home to become king of the Geats, eventually meeting his end in battle with a dragon.

The Archetypal Hero: Beowulf’s Legacy

Beowulf is the quintessential hero – brave, strong, and honorable – and his story lays the groundwork for the archetypal fantasy hero.

From Tolkien’s Aragorn to George R.R. Martin’s Jon Snow, echoes of Beowulf resound in characters who face overwhelming odds and monstrous adversaries with courage and strength.

Monsters and Dragons: A Bestiary’s Origin

“Beowulf” is rich with monstrous figures, from Grendel and his mother to the fire-breathing dragon.

These creatures have become staples in fantasy literature, inspiring the creation of countless literary beasts and villains.

The poem serves as a reminder that our fascination with the monstrous and the otherworldly is as ancient as storytelling itself.

The Hero’s Journey: Beowulf’s Narrative Influence

The narrative structure of “Beowulf,” with its themes of heroism, monster-slaying, and the fight against inevitable decline and death, has influenced countless fantasy stories.

The epic’s blend of action, adventure, and introspection has become a template for the fantasy genre, guiding authors in their creation of compelling, resonant narratives.

A Dark and Ancient World: Setting the Scene

The world of “Beowulf,” with its dark, foreboding landscapes and its mead halls echoing with song and story, has influenced the settings of many fantasy novels.

This atmospheric backdrop has inspired authors to create worlds that are rich in history and lore, imbued with a sense of age and mystery.

The Moral Landscape: Good vs. Evil

The battle between good and evil is central to “Beowulf,” and this theme has remained a cornerstone of fantasy literature.

The epic’s portrayal of Beowulf as a virtuous hero battling against dark, malevolent forces has shaped the moral landscape of the fantasy genre, reinforcing the timeless appeal of the struggle between light and darkness.

The Enduring Echoes of Beowulf

“Beowulf” has left an indelible mark on the world of fantasy literature.

Its themes, characters, and narrative structure have become integral to the genre, inspiring generations of writers and readers alike.

In the realm of fantasy, where heroes embark on epic quests and face fearsome foes, the spirit of “Beowulf” lives on, as powerful and resonant as it was in the smoky mead halls of yore.

In this ancient epic, we find the roots of the stories we continue to tell and cherish – tales of heroism, adventure, and the eternal battle between good and evil.

Fall of Wolfsbane by Jon Cronshaw (Ravenglass Legends, book 1)

Embracing the Morally Grey: A New Era in Fantasy Literature

Explore the rise of morally grey protagonists in fantasy literature, where characters challenge traditional notions of heroism. Delve into the world of complex, flawed heroes who reflect the nuanced realities of morality, shaping a new, more relatable and thrilling landscape in modern fantasy fiction.

Once upon a time in fantasy literature, heroes were as pure and straightforward as a glass of milk in a monastery.

Then came the rise of the morally grey protagonist, as welcome in the genre as a goblin at a fairy convention.

These characters brought a complexity to fantasy that was previously reserved for tax legislation, making the line between good and evil as blurry as a drunkard’s vision.

From White Knights to Grey Squires

Gone are the days when a hero’s armour shone brighter than their morals.

Modern fantasy has embraced protagonists who are less ‘knight in shining armour’ and more ‘person in mildly tarnished chainmail’.

These are characters who might save the world, but only after they’ve finished their pint and had a long think about whether the world is worth saving.

The Lure of the Grey

What is it about these morally ambiguous characters that captures our imagination?

Perhaps it’s their relatable nature.

After all, who among us is without sin, or at least a few parking tickets?

Or maybe it’s the unpredictability they bring to a story – a welcome reprieve from the good old days when you could predict a hero’s actions with the reliability of a train timetable.

Examples in the Wild

Take George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, where characters frequently change sides, and you’re never quite sure who to root for.

Or Joe Abercrombie’s “The First Law” trilogy, starring a barbarian with a conscience and a torturer with a heart.

These characters are as morally consistent as a politician’s promises.

The Appeal of the Dark Side

The rise of the morally grey protagonist also reflects a shift in societal norms.

In an age where we’re used to seeing heroes fall and villains rise on the evening news, these characters offer a mirror to our own world – albeit a slightly smudged one.

They remind us that life is rarely black and white, but an endless spectrum of greys.

Impact on the Genre

This new breed of protagonist has revolutionised fantasy literature, leading to richer, more complex narratives.

It’s an evolution from fairy tale simplicity to a genre that recognises the multifaceted nature of humanity.

And let’s face it, it’s just more fun to read about a hero who might save the princess or might just pawn her crown for a quick buck.

Long Live the Grey!

The rise of morally grey protagonists in fantasy literature marks a maturation of the genre.

These characters, with their complex motivations and questionable morals, offer a more nuanced exploration of the human condition.

They prove that sometimes, the most interesting path isn’t the high road or the low road, but the winding path that meanders somewhere in between.

In the end, isn’t that a bit like life itself?

Exploring the Trope of the Hero’s Journey

Explore the intricacies of the Hero’s Journey in fantasy literature with this in-depth guide. Delve into each stage of this classic narrative structure, and discover how it shapes the worlds and characters of your favorite fantasy tales. Ideal for avid fantasy readers and literary enthusiasts.

Ah, the Hero’s Journey, a beloved trope as classic as a cup of strong tea and as ubiquitous as rain in Manchester.

It’s the secret sauce behind most fantasy tales, the narrative equivalent of a full English breakfast – satisfying and familiar, with just enough variety to keep you coming back for more.

The Ordinary World

Let’s start with The Ordinary World, which is anything but ordinary for the hero.

Here, our protagonist is as blissfully unaware of their grand destiny as someone who’s just stepped on a piece of Lego in the dark.

It’s a life of mundane routines and unfulfilled daydreams, much like queuing for a bus in the drizzle.

The Call to Adventure

Then The Call to Adventure arrives, typically at the worst possible moment, like a tax bill or a surprise visit from the in-laws.

It disrupts the hero’s comfortable, if slightly dull, existence, offering them a chance to change their story from a pamphlet to an epic novel.

The Refusal of the Call

Inevitably, our hero will experience The Refusal of the Call.

Who wouldn’t? It’s the narrative equivalent of being asked to give up Sunday roasts for kale smoothies.

But, much like the allure of a bank holiday sale, the call is too enticing to ignore for long.

Meeting with the Mentor

Then comes the Meeting with the Mentor, where our hero encounters someone older, wiser, and often more inclined to spout cryptic advice than a fortune cookie.

This mentor equips our protagonist with the tools, knowledge, or moral support needed to face the trials ahead, kind of like a fantasy version of a YouTube DIY tutorial.

Crossing the Threshold

Crossing the Threshold is next, where the hero steps into a world as different from their own as Marmite is from jam.

This is the point of no return, like accidentally sending a risky text and watching in horror as the ‘read’ receipt appears.

Tests, Allies, and Enemies

In Tests, Allies, and Enemies, the hero faces challenges that make a trip to IKEA on a Saturday seem like a walk in the park.

They gather allies – a fellowship, if you will – who are as varied as British weather and as dependable as a soggy paper bag.

Enemies also appear, often in the form of villains with more complex backstories than a soap opera character.

Approach to the Inmost Cave

The Approach to the Inmost Cave (not an actual cave, usually) is where our hero prepares for their biggest challenge yet, akin to gearing up for a full day of British summer (sunscreen, umbrella, and a winter coat, just in case).

The Ordeal

The Ordeal is the moment of truth, a test as harrowing as deciding whether to put the milk in before the tea bag.

Our hero confronts their greatest fear, which is often something deeply personal, like running out of tea or losing Wi-Fi.

The Reward

Surviving the ordeal, the hero experiences The Reward, gaining a prize of immense value, be it a magical object, knowledge, or a personal revelation, often accompanied by the realization that the return journey is going to be as easy as convincing a Brit to skip the queue.

The Road Back

The Road Back sees our hero deciding to return to the Ordinary World.

This decision is as weighty as choosing the lesser of two evils, like picking between washing the dishes or vacuuming.

The Resurrection

Upon The Resurrection, the hero faces a final test, often more dangerous than a last-minute dash to the shops on Christmas Eve.

This is where the transformation is completed, with the hero emerging as polished and refined as a scone at afternoon tea.

The Return with the Elixir

Finally, The Return with the Elixir.

Our hero comes back to the Ordinary World, but they’re as changed as a London boozer after a hipster makeover.

They bring something to improve their world, be it a magical elixir or a newfound understanding, much like returning from holiday with exotic spices that will sit in the cupboard for years.

In essence, the Hero’s Journey is about transformation.

It’s a wild ride from the ordinary to the extraordinary and back again, a bit like British politics but with more dragons and fewer debates.

It’s a narrative as comforting as a cuppa, and just like a good book or a rainy day, it’s something we return to time and time again.

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Crafting Epic Fantasy: 7 Writing Lessons from TOOL’s Progressive Metal

Discover how TOOL’s complex music inspires fantasy writing in our blog. Explore their intricate narratives, deep themes, and powerful imagery to craft fantasy stories with a blend of philosophical depth and atmospheric storytelling


In the rich and varied world of fantasy literature, where authors craft epic narratives and explore mystical realms, inspiration can arise from diverse artistic expressions, including music.

TOOL, a band renowned for their complex and layered compositions, introspective lyrics, and thematic depth, offers a source of inspiration for fantasy writers.

Their approach to music – blending the philosophical, the emotional, and the surreal – provides valuable insights for crafting compelling fantasy narratives.

Let’s explore what fantasy authors can learn from the enigmatic world of TOOL.

1. Crafting Complex, Layered Narratives

TOOL’s music is known for its complexity, both in terms of musical structure and lyrical content.

Fantasy authors can draw inspiration from this, creating narratives that are layered and intricate, inviting readers to uncover deeper meanings with each read.

2. Exploring Deep Philosophical Themes

The band often delves into profound philosophical and existential themes.

Fantasy writers can similarly incorporate significant themes into their stories, using their fantastical worlds as a backdrop for exploring complex ideas and questions about life, existence, and consciousness.

3. Creating a Unique Atmosphere

TOOL’s music creates a distinctive atmosphere, often described as immersive and transcendent.

In fantasy writing, establishing a unique and consistent atmosphere is crucial, as it sets the tone for the story and enhances the reader’s immersion in the world.

4. Developing Rich Symbolism

The band’s use of symbolism in their lyrics and album art is notable.

Fantasy authors can use symbolism to add depth to their narratives, creating motifs and symbols that resonate with larger themes and add layers of meaning to their stories.

5. Balancing the Abstract with the Concrete

TOOL often balances abstract, esoteric concepts with more concrete, relatable themes.

In fantasy writing, balancing the fantastical and the abstract with relatable characters and themes can make a story more engaging and accessible to readers.

6. Embracing Long-Form Storytelling

Many of TOOL’s songs are long and unfold gradually.

Fantasy authors can embrace this long-form storytelling approach, taking the time to develop their world, characters, and plot in a way that is thorough and compelling.

7. The Power of Visual Imagery

TOOL’s music videos and album art are as iconic as their music, often featuring surreal and powerful imagery.

Fantasy authors can learn from this the importance of visual elements in storytelling, using descriptive language to paint vivid images in the reader’s mind.

TOOL’s approach to music – characterized by its complexity, thematic depth, and atmospheric storytelling – offers rich lessons for fantasy authors.

By incorporating these elements into their writing, authors can craft fantasy stories that resonate with the intellectual and emotional depth of TOOL’s music.

How will TOOL’s profound themes, complex structures, and powerful imagery inspire your journeys into the realms of fantasy literature?

Share your thoughts, and let’s discuss how the transcendent world of a progressive metal band can influence the craft of fantasy storytelling.

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