How to Write for a Living

308: How to keep the magic alive in your writing (with Walter Rhein)


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Season 3, episode 8 is here!

In this episode, Walter Rhein and I dive deep into the world of fantasy writing - where stories begin, how they evolve, and why imagination still matters in an increasingly practical world.

Worldbuilding, villains, the power of silliness - this conversation explores what makes great fantasy resonate and how writers can keep the spark of creativity alive as they grow older.

What we covered:

- The real connection between nature, folklore, and the fantasy worlds we create

- How mythology from different cultures shapes modern fantasy storytelling

- Why dialogue and shorter stories are powerful tools for testing your ideas and growing faster as a writer

- The difference between good and lazy worldbuilding, and why overplanning kills creativity

- What makes a truly great villain, and why the best ones make you question yourself

- How writing with (and for) children can reignite your sense of wonder and play

- Practical advice for new writers on starting a fantasy novel, finding momentum, and making writing fun again

Make sure to subscribe to Walter’s publication before you go!



This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thedavidmcilroy.substack.com/subscribe
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How to Write for a LivingBy David McIlroy

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