{"id":6861,"date":"2024-12-13T13:25:14","date_gmt":"2024-12-13T18:25:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/degfhkjgfjhf.inkitt.com\/?p=6861"},"modified":"2024-12-16T03:35:04","modified_gmt":"2024-12-16T08:35:04","slug":"creating-creatures-in-science-fiction","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/writersblog-backend.inkitt.com\/creating-creatures-in-science-fiction\/","title":{"rendered":"Creating Creatures in Science Fiction"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n
We remember the strange things. When we discuss science fiction, we marvel over the bizarre landscapes and creepy creatures that crawl from the author\u2019s imagination.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Suspension of disbelief, however, rests a heavier burden on science fiction than similar genres, like fantasy, that also parade the unseen through the eye of imagination. Inspiration and realism, however, are not as far removed as you\u2019d think.<\/span><\/p>\r\n Features we find uniquely horrifying and wonderful come from nature. Too many long, spindly legs? Spiders. Giant, adorable eyes that project untainted innocence? Bush babies. To create unique creatures, it\u2019s best to start with reality and work out.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Ask yourself what features you like about your dog.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Then ask what changes might transform your sweet pup into a nightmare beast. Longer legs? More eyes? A secondary pair of jaws?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Every creature is shaped by its habitat, so think about the evolutionary perks your beast has developed. A towering stork-like bird might thrive in marshes, while a spider dog\u2019s limbs suit swampy edges. Don\u2019t forget plant life\u2014it could be wildly different in your world.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n No flowers? No grass? What kind of trees, if any? Factor in weather, seasons, and even celestial quirks. How do your creatures handle extreme heat, cold, or endless rain? Build a world that challenges and complements their survival!<\/span><\/p>\r\n If you have one monster, you need a supporting cast of creatures. Predators need prey, and you\u2019ll need a mix of both herbivores and predators. Omnivores have a place in the system, too. Where do scavengers come into play, and what horrifying differences do they feature from the norm?<\/span><\/p>\r\n Keep in mind, even apex predators have competition. Humans rule our version of Earth, but we still lose individual members to animals like lions, sharks, and \u2013 of course \u2013 microbes.<\/span><\/p>\r\n An alternate universe or alien planet is ultimately unknowable, but a bit of science helps with believability. For instance, massive insects need higher oxygen levels, which would impact your human characters\u2019 stamina, focus, and even lifespan.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n Research these details to add depth and make your world feel real. Think about your favorite sci-fi creature or alien world\u2014they inspire awe and terror. You can create that same magic for your audience!<\/span><\/p>\r\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" We remember the strange things. When we discuss science fiction, we marvel over the bizarre landscapes and creepy creatures that crawl from the author\u2019s imagination.\u00a0 Suspension of disbelief, however, rests a heavier burden on science fiction than similar genres, like fantasy, that also parade the unseen through the eye of imagination. Inspiration and realism, however,<\/p>\nFind Your Creatures<\/b><\/h2>\r\n
8 Main Rules You Should Consider<\/span><\/h2>\r\n
1. Tie Them to Their Environment<\/b><\/h3>\r\n
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2. Give Them a Purpose<\/b><\/h3>\r\n
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3. Establish Rules of Biology<\/b><\/h3>\r\n
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4. Consider Interactions with Characters<\/b><\/h3>\r\n
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5. Balance the Familiar with the Unique<\/b><\/h3>\r\n
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6. Think About Scale<\/b><\/h3>\r\n
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7. Focus on Specific Details<\/b><\/h3>\r\n
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8. Reflect the World\u2019s Themes<\/b><\/h3>\r\n
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Develop Your Creature’s Landscape<\/b><\/h2>\r\n
Look at Your Ecosystem<\/b><\/h2>\r\n
Drizzle Your Fiction with Science<\/b><\/h2>\r\n