Myth and World Building

[tashiro]

I've had a conversation with Cat (and others) about the Supernatural series, and world building.  Specifically, Cat feels that the creators of Supernatural 'didn't do their homework', and while this may be true, I think for the setting, it doesn't matter that much.  The other thing is, the series doesn't really explain where monsters come from, or

Comments

Two Cents

[marinredwolf]

I find specific explanations are less important to my enjoyment than the feeling that there is a coherent, consistent explanation.

Revelations that come along the way because characters learn more are good for immersion, as the audience can see bits "behind the curtain" at the same time. Dresden Files does that over the course of the series. Predator offered interesting glimpses via character deduction and monster behavior without resorting to blatant a "here's how things work." On the other hand, it's jarring to go through a book or something (Geist comes to mind) where the audience is told constantly that supernatural rules are not working the way they have for known history.

Tangentially, this is sort of why I never liked your Furryfaire afterlife theory. You said, more or less, "what happens depends on what faith you belong to," which is pretty much saying everyone is right, even if their beliefs conflict. And if there's any ultimate cohesion to that, it wasn't apparent, instead leaving me with the distinct feeling that where was no "unifying theory."

As a storyteller, you can have a plan and that's fine. Or you can bullshit all you want - just be sure you do it well. ;)