Some common search terms could be 'elf fantasy short fiction', 'dragon in short fantasy stories', 'wizard fantasy shorts'.
Common search terms might include 'dark fantasy short stories', 'fantasy love short fiction', 'epic battles in short fantasy'. Dark fantasy can offer a different and often edgier take on the genre. Fantasy love stories are popular as they combine the allure of love with the magic of the fantasy world. And epic battles are exciting and often a highlight in many fantasy short fictions.
You can start by looking at popular book search engines and seeing what terms are frequently used when people look for fantasy short fiction.
One common element in terms of fiction is the creation of characters. Writers develop characters with distinct personalities, goals, and flaws. Another is the setting. It can be a real - world place or a completely fictional world like Middle - earth in Tolkien's works. Plot is also crucial. It's the sequence of events that drives the story forward, often with a conflict that the characters must face.
Common terms for short stories could be point of view, which determines how the story is told; dialogue, which shows character interaction; and mood, which creates the atmosphere. These all contribute to making the story engaging.
The term 'genetic engineering' in science fiction can be really captivating. It involves manipulating the genetic code of organisms. In some sci - fi works, it can lead to the creation of super - humans or strange new species. For example, in the 'X - Men' franchise, mutants are the result of genetic mutations that give them special powers.
I think 'character' is really important. Characters drive the story forward. Then there's 'setting'. It sets the mood and context for the story, whether it's a spooky old mansion or a sunny beach. 'Conflict' is also crucial. It can be internal (within a character) or external (between characters or a character and their environment).
The term "intertextuality" might be among the more challenging ones. It refers to the relationship between texts, where one text refers to or is influenced by other texts. Understanding how different works are connected in this way requires a lot of knowledge about different literary works and their historical and cultural contexts. For example, many modern novels make references to classic works, and spotting these intertextual links can be tough.
The most common mythologies in fantasy fiction include Greek mythology due to its rich pantheon and famous tales. Norse mythology with its unique cosmology and powerful deities is also popular. Fairy tales can also be considered a form of mythology and are used extensively. They have magical elements like talking animals and enchanted forests. Asian mythologies such as Japanese and Chinese mythologies are also starting to be more commonly used, with their unique creatures like the kitsune in Japanese mythology and the dragon in Chinese mythology.
Some common ones are 'telepathy' which is sort of a medical - like concept as it involves the mind. Another is 'cyborg', which implies a combination of biological and mechanical parts, often related to medical enhancements. And 'clone' is very common, representing the idea of creating an exact genetic copy of a living being, which has a lot of medical implications.
Some common literary terms used in fiction are "character", which refers to the individuals in the story. "Setting" is another one, representing the time and place where the story occurs. And "plot", which is the sequence of events in the story.
Transformation is a frequently seen theme. Characters may transform physically or psychologically due to dark forces or magic. This could be a transformation into a monster or a more subtle change in personality. Additionally, the theme of the corrupting influence of power is common. Whether it's magical power or political power within a dark fantasy world, it often leads to the downfall of characters or entire civilizations.