Fantasy: Part II

Last month we talked about the fantasy genre, and how many fantasy novels communicate some deeper meaning—some truth about life or human nature. The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan is a famous book that uses many fantastical elements to depict the life of a Christian. The main character, named Christian, goes on a journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City. Through realistic characters and events, the author shows the need for salvation and the importance of staying on the path of faith and right living.

The Pilgrim’s Progress is an allegory—a story with characters and events representing spiritual truths. Like the parables of the Bible, the book points to truths beyond itself. At the same time, the narrative method and dramatic scenes make it an interesting story. As you write, keep in mind that you should not shout your message or theme at your reader with every sentence. If your theme gets in the way of your plot, your reader may become bored. Keep your reader’s attention with exciting scenes and well-crafted dialogue.

A pastor as well as a writer, John Bunyan observed many kinds of people, all of them with different life stories. He gave his three main characters—Christian, Faithful,and Hopeful—different weaknesses, different strengths, and different experiences. Because of this character variety, every reader can find elements of himself somewhere in the story. When you are writing, remember to make your characters accessible to your readers. Give your characters personality traits and feelings to which your reader can relate.

If you have not read The Pilgrim’s Progress, consider checking it out of your local library. Ask a parent or teacher if they would recommend the original version or an abridged edition. Bunyan wrote his book for adults, but many versions of the book have been produced with young people of all ages in mind.

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