Think about the characters first. Maybe a hero who has a strange power like the ability to communicate with the dead. Then build a world around that character. If they can talk to the dead, perhaps there's a whole underworld that exists parallel to the living world, and there are rules and politics in that underworld that the hero has to navigate.
Consider concepts like time and space. What if time runs backwards in a certain part of the fantasy world? Or what if there are spaces that are portals to different dimensions? You could also play with the idea of dreams. A character might enter a dream world every night that is more real than the waking world and has to solve problems there to keep the two worlds in balance.
Look at nature for inspiration. For instance, a forest could be a magical place full of fairies and hidden paths. Or a waterfall could be a portal to another world. You can also think about different mythologies and incorporate elements from them, like Greek or Norse mythology.
To develop good ideas for fantasy short stories, think about the relationships between characters. For example, a friendship between a human and a magical being could be the basis of a story. The conflict could be that the magical being is hunted by other humans because of its power. Another way is to think about how magic affects the world. If magic is a finite resource, how does that change society? Does it lead to wars? Or does it create a caste system where those with magic are at the top? By exploring these aspects, you can come up with engaging and unique ideas for your fantasy short stories.
Read a lot of fantasy books. By immersing yourself in different fantasy worlds, you can get inspiration. For example, if you read about a unique magic system in one book, you might be able to adapt it in your own way. Another way is to look at nature. Think about how the changing seasons could be translated into a magic cycle in your story. Also, daydream. Let your mind wander and think about what if scenarios. What if there was a world where people could fly? How would that change society?
One way to develop ideas for a good fantasy story is to start with a simple concept like a magical object. Then, think about what this object can do, who made it, and why it's so important. Let's say it's a crystal that can grant wishes. But there's a catch - every wish comes with a terrible price. You can build your story around different characters who discover this crystal and how their lives are changed by it. Also, daydreaming can be very helpful. Just let your mind wander and imagine strange and wonderful things.
Read a lot of existing fantasy stories. This can inspire you. For instance, if you read about a magical ring in one story, you might think about creating a story around a magical bracelet. It gives you a starting point.
Read a lot of existing fantasy stories. This exposes you to different concepts and tropes that you can then put your own spin on. For example, if you read about a magical school, you could create a school that floats in the air or is underwater. Another way is to look at real - world myths and legends. Take elements from them and blend them into your fantasy world. For instance, you could use the idea of a phoenix from Greek mythology and make it a central part of your story, perhaps as a protector of a magical kingdom. Also, daydreaming can be really helpful. Let your mind wander and think about strange and wonderful things like a city made of clouds or a race of people who can communicate with plants.
Look at real - world mythology for inspiration. For instance, Greek mythology has all kinds of gods, monsters, and heroic tales. You can take elements from it and put your own spin on them. Maybe create a story where modern - day humans accidentally stumble upon a hidden world based on Greek mythology.
To develop conflict ideas for a fantasy story, start with the setting. If your story is set in a world divided by a great chasm, the two sides could be in conflict over resources or different beliefs. You can also play with the concept of fate. A character who is fated to be a great hero but wants a normal life creates an internal conflict. Additionally, think about hierarchies. In a world of magic, there could be a conflict between the high - level mages who hoard knowledge and power and the lower - level mages who want equality. It's all about creating opposing forces and desires within your story world.
Read other fantasy stories. They can inspire you with different settings, characters, and plot twists. For example, if you read about a dragon in one story, you could think about how to make your own version of a dragon, like a dragon made of ice or one that can speak in riddles.
Look at nature for inspiration. For instance, the way a forest changes throughout the seasons can give you ideas. In a fantasy story, a forest could transform into different magical landscapes in each season, like a spring forest full of singing flowers, or a winter forest where the trees are made of ice. You can also think about real - life mythologies and give them a new twist.
One way is to start with a unique setting. For example, a world where magic and technology coexist. Then, create interesting characters with distinct personalities and goals. They could be a brave wizard trying to save the world or a curious inventor exploring the secrets of magic - technology fusion. Also, think of a captivating plot, like a mystery that the characters need to solve.