The Difference Between Magical Realism and Fantasy
The debate between magical realism and fantasy fiction is ongoing, and frequently, an emotional affair. The late British author Terry Pratchett, responsible for the meritorious Discworld series, captures the conflict: “(magical realism) is a polite way of saying you...
The Symbolism of the Guy Fawkes Mask: Politics, Revolution and Whistleblowers
“Remember, remember; the Fifth of November… Gunpowder, treason and plot. I see no reason why gunpowder treason Should ever be forgotten…” The 5th of November Song Such is the opening to the nursery rhyme for Guy Fawkes night, November 5th, where English celebrate the...
The Challenges (And Conflicts) Between Novelists & Historians
At this present moment, historians and artists fail to understand each other. Not only is this due to fundamental differences in approaches, but also in the goals and expectations placed on them. One of the most successful books about the Holocaust in children’s...
The History Wars Over Vladimir The Great: Ownership Between Russia & Ukraine
A monument speaks to the people of a civilisation: their past, present and future. This is why some statues, such as Cecil Rhodes in Oxford, have proved both controversial and inspiring. The Anglosphere has undergone years of historical revisionism by fanatics who are...
The Problem With Fantasy Subgenres
Ever since the inception of the internet, the concept of ‘subgenres’ in fantasy has emerged into common view, with some ranging from ‘epic fantasy’ to grimdark to historical. This makes sense: so many fantasy books are published and translated each year and it helps...
Gilead by Marilynne Robinson: The Finest Novel So Far This Century
A literary masterpiece is not only well-written and has complex characters, but engages with the reader by offering them a unique and rewarding experience through philosophy, history, faith and a national language. This is the reason why I acclaim Dostoevsky’s Crime...
The Apocalypse In The 21st Century
Apocalyptic thinking has dominated the 21st century. But it’s not a new phenomenon. Concerns and fears of the end times have shaped much of human history, whether one looks at the Norse prophecy of Ragnarök, a Mayan calendar or manuscript culture around 1000 A.D....
Why The Harry Potter Fandom Is So Creative
The Harry Potter fandom is one of the most noteworthy aspects of the Wizarding world. This isn’t always positive – one can only look at how some fans have treated J.K Rowling for voicing sensible views on women’s spaces. However, this is one aspect and not every...
Yes, You Should Reread Novels
It’s a fantastic idea to re-read novels. I’m currently revisiting Elizabeth Kostova’s The Historian, a vampire thriller. The story is excellent: from the references to Vlad The Impaler to the depiction of Istanbul as well as the historical commentary on the Byzantium...Welcome To Snowy Fictions
Frequent essays on literature, history & culture. Dedicated to liberty.
