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The Charm of Old-School Fantasy
Fantasy genre boundaries
Fantasy literature has long charmed readers with its diverse collection of creatures and mythical beings, each occupying its unique world.
As a fan of old-school fantasy, I believe particular creatures belong together while others do not. This might sound strict, but it comes from my appreciation for the traditions that have defined the genre for decades.
I have tried to be open-minded and have tried some of the newer structural books. But I ended up lost and gave up pretty soon.
I have specific expectations when I read a fantasy book with (for instance) angels and demons.
Angels, with their ethereal grace and divine purpose, are locked in eternal conflict with demons, who represent chaos and venom. This contrast portrays good versus evil, light versus darkness.
Now, introducing a vampire into this celestial battle disrupts the established order for me. With their gothic charm and nightlife, vampires belong to a different kind of fantasy — one drenched in horror and romance. They feel out of place in an angelic story.
Similarly, faeries have their distinct place in the fantasy world.
These impulsive, often naughty beings are tied to nature and magic, living in enchanted forests and…