What is a Background of a Story? Narrative Canvas

Within the immersive realm of narrative construction, the setting constitutes more than a mere backdrop; its intrinsic elements significantly influence plot development, character motivations, and thematic resonance. The Hero’s Journey, a paradigm articulated by Joseph Campbell, frequently leverages transformative backgrounds to catalyze the protagonist’s evolution. The narrative canvas extends far beyond rudimentary descriptions; it encapsulates intricate facets such as social contexts, historical frameworks, and cultural paradigms that profoundly impact the storyline. Therefore, understanding what is a background of a story involves a comprehensive analysis of how authors skillfully employ settings to enrich their narratives. World-building, often associated with speculative fiction, exemplifies the sophisticated construction of detailed backgrounds that provide depth and credibility to fictional universes.

The Unsung Hero of Storytelling: Crafting Immersive Backgrounds

In the realm of narrative artistry, the background often remains an unsung hero, quietly shaping the reader’s experience and imbuing the story with depth and resonance. While plot and character rightfully take center stage, it is the meticulously crafted background that elevates a narrative from mere entertainment to an unforgettable, immersive journey.

A well-developed background isn’t just decorative; it’s the bedrock upon which compelling stories are built.

Defining "Background" in Storytelling

Within the context of storytelling, "background" encompasses all the elements that contribute to the world in which the story unfolds, beyond the immediate actions of the characters.

It’s the tapestry of details that paints a vivid picture in the reader’s mind.

This includes the physical environment, the social and political climate, the history and culture of the world, and the underlying themes that permeate the narrative. It is the sum of all these parts which creates the authentic feel.

Setting vs. Background: Understanding the Nuances

It’s important to distinguish between setting and background.

Setting typically refers to the specific time and place in which a scene or story occurs – a castle, a futuristic city, or a bustling marketplace. Background, on the other hand, is a far broader concept.

Background encompasses the entire world of the story.
It is the history of that castle, the societal structure of the futuristic city, and the economic forces that drive the marketplace. Background provides the context within which the setting exists.

The Pervasive Influence of Background

The influence of background extends far beyond mere description. It profoundly impacts:

• Plot: A story’s background dictates the possibilities and limitations within the narrative, shaping conflicts and driving the plot forward.
• Character Development: Characters are products of their environment. Their motivations, beliefs, and actions are all shaped by the background in which they exist.
• Thematic Resonance: A well-crafted background can amplify the themes of a story, creating a deeper and more meaningful experience for the reader.

Key Elements of a Compelling Background

Creating a compelling background requires attention to detail and a holistic approach.

Several key elements work together to create an immersive and believable world.

These include:

• Setting: Establishing a sense of place through vivid descriptions.
• Worldbuilding: Constructing a cohesive and internally consistent world with its own rules and history.
• Atmosphere/Mood: Creating an emotional tone that permeates the narrative.
• Context: Providing the historical, social, and cultural factors that influence the story.
• Theme: Reinforcing the underlying message or idea of the story through background elements.

Foundational Elements: Building Blocks of Believable Worlds

To truly transport readers, a story requires more than compelling characters and a gripping plot. It needs a solid foundation – a meticulously constructed background that breathes life into the narrative and grounds it in a sense of reality, however fantastical. These foundational elements are the bedrock upon which memorable stories are built.

Let’s explore the key components that contribute to a strong and believable story background: setting, worldbuilding, atmosphere/mood, context, and theme.

Setting: The Stage for Storytelling

Setting is the physical and temporal location where the story unfolds. It’s more than just a backdrop; it’s an active participant in the narrative.

Vivid Descriptions and Sensory Details

A powerful setting is brought to life through vivid descriptions and sensory details. Engage the reader’s senses – sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch – to create a truly immersive experience. Instead of simply stating that a forest is dark, describe the oppressive silence, the damp earth underfoot, and the faint scent of decaying leaves.

Setting as a Character

A well-developed setting can even act as a character in itself. It can influence the actions and emotions of the characters, shape the plot, and even symbolize deeper themes. Think of the oppressive heat and isolation of the desert in The Alchemist, or the sprawling, dangerous cityscape of Gotham City in the Batman comics.

Worldbuilding: Crafting a Cohesive Reality

Worldbuilding goes beyond just the physical setting. It encompasses the creation of a cohesive and believable fictional world, complete with its own rules, history, cultures, and systems.

Consistent Rules and Internal Logic

The key to successful worldbuilding is consistency. The rules of your world, whether it’s a magical system or a complex social structure, must be internally logical and consistently applied. Any inconsistencies can shatter the reader’s suspension of disbelief.

Unique Cultures, Histories, and Systems

Give your world depth and richness by creating unique cultures, histories, and systems. Consider the societal norms, the political landscape, the dominant religions, and the technological advancements (or lack thereof). How do these elements interact and shape the lives of your characters?

Atmosphere/Mood: Painting with Emotion

Atmosphere and mood refer to the emotional tone that permeates the narrative. It’s the feeling that the story evokes in the reader.

Setting and Descriptive Language

Atmosphere is often created through a combination of setting and descriptive language. A dark and stormy night, described with chilling details, can create a sense of suspense and dread. Conversely, a sun-drenched meadow, filled with the scent of wildflowers, can evoke feelings of peace and tranquility.

Examples of Different Moods

Consider the desired emotional impact of your story and choose setting and language that support it. Examples include:

• Suspenseful: Dark alleys, sudden noises, and a sense of unease.
• Romantic: Candlelit dinners, soft music, and passionate glances.
• Eerie: Abandoned buildings, whispering winds, and a feeling of being watched.

Context: Understanding the Bigger Picture

Context refers to the historical, social, and cultural factors that influence the story. It provides a framework for understanding the motivations of the characters and the events that unfold.

Enhancing Character Motivations and Plot Events

Understanding the context enriches the narrative by clarifying character motivations and the significance of plot events. Knowing the historical and social pressures a character faces can help readers empathize with their choices, even if they don’t agree with them.

Historical Events Shaping Narratives

Historical events can also play a crucial role in shaping a narrative. A story set during World War II, for example, will be deeply influenced by the political climate, the social anxieties, and the moral dilemmas of that era.

Theme: The Underlying Message

Theme is the underlying message or idea that the story explores. A strong background can reinforce these thematic ideas, adding layers of meaning and resonance.

Background Elements Reinforcing Thematic Ideas

Choose background elements that symbolically represent your themes. A story about oppression, for example, might be set in a dystopian city with strict social controls and constant surveillance.

Symbolic Settings and Themes

Here are examples of settings that can symbolically represent themes:

• A dystopian city reflecting themes of oppression, control, and loss of individuality.
• A haunted house symbolizing the weight of the past, unresolved trauma, or hidden secrets.
• A vast, unexplored wilderness representing freedom, self-discovery, or the challenges of survival.

By carefully considering these foundational elements, writers can construct believable and immersive backgrounds that elevate their stories and leave a lasting impression on readers.

Enhancing Narrative Depth: Beyond the Surface

To truly transport readers, a story requires more than compelling characters and a gripping plot. It needs a solid foundation – a meticulously constructed background that breathes life into the narrative and grounds it in a sense of reality, however fantastical. These foundational elements, when skillfully interwoven, elevate a narrative beyond a simple sequence of events into a rich and immersive experience. We move now beyond the foundations, to the depth.

A well-developed background acts as a powerful engine for narrative depth, enriching the story on multiple levels and forging a stronger connection with the reader. It is the key to unlocking a world that feels both real and meaningful.

The Power of Backstory

Backstory is far more than just historical context; it’s the bedrock upon which character motivations and relationships are built. By understanding the formative experiences that have shaped a character’s past, we gain invaluable insight into their present actions and desires.

Effective backstory isn’t delivered through clumsy exposition. It’s woven organically into the narrative through carefully placed flashbacks, subtle dialogue cues, and evocative descriptions of the present-day setting. The art lies in revealing just enough to pique the reader’s curiosity without overwhelming them with irrelevant details.

Techniques for Unveiling the Past

Flashbacks, when used judiciously, can offer a powerful glimpse into pivotal moments in a character’s history. Dialogue can be a subtle yet effective tool for revealing snippets of backstory through casual conversations and reminiscing.

Finally, the present-day environment itself can serve as a constant reminder of the past, with certain locations or objects triggering memories and emotions.

Achieving Verisimilitude: The Ring of Truth

Verisimilitude is the quality of appearing real or true, and it’s essential for drawing readers into the fictional world. A consistent and detailed background is paramount to achieving this believability.

Every element of the world, from its geography and climate to its social customs and economic systems, must adhere to a set of internally consistent rules. This meticulous attention to detail minimizes plot holes and reinforces the sense that the world is governed by its own logical principles.

Immersion: Engaging the Senses

Immersion is the holy grail of storytelling – the state in which the reader becomes so fully absorbed in the story world that they forget they are reading a work of fiction. A rich and detailed background is crucial for achieving this level of engagement.

The use of sensory details – sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures – can bring the story world to life in a tangible way. Vivid descriptions of the environment, coupled with evocative language, can transport the reader to another time and place.

Suspension of Disbelief: A Willing Agreement

Suspension of disbelief is the tacit agreement between the writer and the reader to accept the fictional world as real, despite its inherent improbabilities. A convincing background is the key to fostering this willing suspension of disbelief.

By establishing a set of consistent rules and adhering to them throughout the narrative, the writer creates a framework of plausibility that makes it easier for the reader to accept even the most outlandish concepts.

Foreshadowing: Whispers of What’s to Come

The background can also be used to subtly foreshadow future plot developments. A recurring symbol, a seemingly innocuous detail in the setting, or a historical parallel can all serve as hints of what’s to come.

This type of subtle foreshadowing adds layers of depth and intrigue to the narrative, rewarding the reader for paying close attention to the details.

Symbolism: Layers of Meaning

Symbolism is the use of objects, places, or events to represent abstract ideas or concepts. A well-developed background provides ample opportunities for symbolic representation.

A seemingly ordinary location, like a crumbling mansion or a desolate wasteland, can take on a deeper meaning when viewed through the lens of symbolism.

Narrative Structure: Background as Framework

The background is not merely a backdrop; it can actively shape the narrative structure itself. The social, political, and economic forces at play within the story world can influence the characters’ decisions, drive the plot forward, and ultimately determine the outcome of the narrative.

The background can also provide a framework for organizing events. For example, a historical setting might dictate the timeline of events, while a fantastical world might introduce unique challenges and opportunities that influence the story’s trajectory.

Influencing Plot Devices

A carefully constructed background profoundly influences the deployment and effectiveness of plot devices.

For example, in a world where magic is commonplace, a magical artifact might serve as a powerful catalyst for the plot. In a dystopian society, the oppressive regime might force the characters to resort to desperate measures. The background shapes the possibilities and limitations of the plot, creating a cohesive and believable narrative.

Exemplary Settings: Learning from the Best

To truly transport readers, a story requires more than compelling characters and a gripping plot. It needs a solid foundation – a meticulously constructed background that breathes life into the narrative and grounds it in a sense of reality, however fantastical. These foundational elements, when skillfully crafted, transform a setting from a mere backdrop into an active participant in the narrative.

Let’s examine some iconic examples of settings from popular literature and media to understand how they contribute to the overall success of their respective stories. These are settings that are intrinsically linked with the narrative and resonate deeply with audiences.

The Shire: An Idyll in Middle-earth

The Shire, from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, serves as a powerful example of a setting defined by its contrast. Its quiet, pastoral beauty, and the simple, agrarian life of the hobbits stand in stark opposition to the looming darkness and epic conflicts of Middle-earth.

This contrast is not merely aesthetic. The Shire represents a sense of innocence and peace that must be protected from the encroaching evil. It acts as the emotional anchor of the story, the reason for fighting, and the ultimate symbol of what is at stake.

The detailed descriptions of the Shire’s landscape, its food, and its social customs create a palpable sense of place. We understand what the hobbits have to lose, making their journey all the more compelling.

Gotham City: A Crucible of Corruption

In stark contrast to the Shire’s bucolic charm, Gotham City, the home of Batman, embodies urban decay and moral corruption. It is a city defined by its shadows, both literally and figuratively.

Skyscrapers loom like menacing figures, alleyways breed crime, and the very air seems thick with despair.

Gotham is more than just a place; it’s a character in itself, a reflection of the darkness that Batman fights against. Its architecture, its social strata, and its history all contribute to a pervasive sense of unease and impending doom.

The city fosters the kind of villains that only it could. Gotham needs Batman, and Batman needs Gotham.

Hogwarts: A Sanctuary of Magic

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, from J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, presents a world of enchantment and wonder. Its sprawling castle, hidden staircases, and magical inhabitants create an immersive and whimsical environment.

But Hogwarts is more than just a pretty backdrop. It is a place of learning, growth, and belonging.

It is where Harry Potter discovers his identity and finds a surrogate family. The school’s traditions, its secrets, and its dangers all contribute to the rich tapestry of the Harry Potter universe.

Hogwarts becomes a character that helps shape the protagonist’s destiny.

Victorian England: A Stage for Social Commentary

Victorian England, as depicted in countless novels and films, offers a rich historical and social context for storytelling. The era’s strict social hierarchies, its rapid industrialization, and its moral complexities provide fertile ground for exploring themes of class, ambition, and social injustice.

From the smoky streets of London to the opulent estates of the aristocracy, Victorian England presents a multifaceted setting ripe with dramatic potential.

Writers often leverage this period to critique the social norms and power structures of their own time, using the past as a lens through which to examine the present.

The American West (1800s): Frontier of Opportunity and Conflict

The American West in the 19th century, with its vast landscapes and untamed wilderness, embodies both promise and peril. It is a place of exploration, opportunity, and conflict, where settlers sought their fortunes and Native Americans struggled to defend their way of life.

The setting shapes the narratives of survival, resilience, and the clash of cultures.

The harsh environment tests the limits of human endurance, and the constant threat of violence creates a sense of tension and uncertainty. The open frontier represents both freedom and danger, attracting those seeking a new beginning while simultaneously exposing them to immense challenges.

A Specific, Real City: Anchoring Fiction in Reality

While fantastical settings offer boundless creative freedom, grounding a story in a specific, real city can add layers of depth and authenticity. Choosing a city with a distinct character, history, and cultural identity can imbue the narrative with a unique flavor.

The key is to leverage the city’s specific features to enhance the storytelling. Its architecture, its neighborhoods, its local customs, and its hidden corners can all become integral parts of the plot and character development.

By blending familiar real-world elements with fictional narratives, authors can create a powerful sense of verisimilitude and draw readers deeper into their stories. For instance, using a city as a microcosm of a country.

By studying these exemplary settings, writers can gain valuable insights into the art of background construction. A well-developed setting is not merely a backdrop, but a dynamic force that shapes the narrative, influences the characters, and resonates with the reader long after the story ends.

Masters of Background Construction: Inspiration from the Pros

To truly transport readers, a story requires more than compelling characters and a gripping plot. It needs a solid foundation – a meticulously constructed background that breathes life into the narrative and grounds it in a sense of reality, however fantastical. These foundational elements, when skillfully executed, can elevate a narrative from mere entertainment to an unforgettable experience. Let’s delve into the approaches of some masters who have demonstrated unparalleled skill in crafting immersive and believable worlds.

R.R. Tolkien: The Architect of Middle-earth

J.R.R. Tolkien stands as a towering figure in fantasy literature, primarily due to his unparalleled ability to build comprehensive and believable worlds. Middle-earth is more than just a setting; it’s a fully realized ecosystem with its own languages, histories, mythologies, and cultures.

His meticulous approach to worldbuilding, evident in works like The Lord of the Rings, serves as a prime example of how depth and consistency can create unparalleled reader immersion. Tolkien’s dedication to linguistic detail, for instance, adds a layer of authenticity often missing in fantasy.

Ursula K. Le Guin: Exploring Themes Through Detailed Worlds

Ursula K. Le Guin’s science fiction and fantasy often serve as vehicles for exploring profound themes related to society, gender, and the human condition. Her Hainish Cycle is a testament to her ability to use worldbuilding as a means of examining complex philosophical questions.

Le Guin doesn’t just create settings; she crafts societies that challenge conventional thinking and invite readers to contemplate alternative ways of life. Her detailed worldbuilding enriches and elevates the thematic resonance of her work.

George R.R. Martin: Politically Charged Backgrounds

George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series is celebrated for its intricate political landscape and morally grey characters. The world of Westeros is steeped in history, with complex family lineages and power struggles that drive the narrative.

Martin excels at creating a sense of realism by depicting the brutal realities of medieval politics, where alliances shift and betrayals are commonplace. His detailed background adds depth and complexity to the story. It creates an environment where characters must constantly navigate treacherous social and political terrain.

Brandon Sanderson: The Art of Magic System Design

Brandon Sanderson is renowned for his meticulously crafted magic systems that adhere to strict rules and internal consistency. In series like Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive, magic is not just a convenient plot device. It’s a carefully defined system with its own limitations and consequences.

Sanderson’s approach to worldbuilding prioritizes logic and structure, ensuring that magic remains believable within the context of the story. This level of detail creates a sense of wonder and allows readers to fully invest in the world.

Robert McKee: Context and Setting as Pillars of Storytelling

Robert McKee, a renowned screenwriting guru, emphasizes the crucial role of context and setting in storytelling. In his influential book, Story, McKee argues that a well-defined setting is essential for creating believable characters and compelling narratives.

McKee advocates for understanding the social, historical, and cultural forces that shape the story world. This approach allows writers to create richer, more meaningful stories that resonate with audiences. The context informs the characters’ decisions, influencing the narrative’s direction.

Lajos Egri: Premise and Setting Intertwined

Lajos Egri, in The Art of Dramatic Writing, stresses the importance of a clear premise that drives the story’s conflict. Egri argued that the premise and the setting are closely intertwined. The setting should amplify and reflect the core premise of the story.

A well-chosen setting becomes an integral part of the thematic framework, enhancing the audience’s comprehension and emotional investment. Egri’s perspective underscores the necessity of aligning the external environment with the story’s internal message.

Resources and Communities: Fueling Your Imagination

To truly transport readers, a story requires more than compelling characters and a gripping plot. It needs a solid foundation – a meticulously constructed background that breathes life into the narrative and grounds it in a sense of reality, however fantastical. These foundational elements can seem daunting to conjure from thin air. Fortunately, a wealth of resources and communities exist to ignite your imagination and hone your world-building skills.

Professional Organizations and Societies

Writers don’t have to walk the path alone. Professional organizations provide structure, resources, and networking opportunities.

• Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA): SFWA isn’t just a guild; it’s a gateway to professional development for speculative fiction authors. Membership grants access to valuable resources, including legal advice, mentorship programs, and a vibrant community of peers. Critically, SFWA also advocates for fair treatment and compensation for authors within the publishing industry.

• World Science Fiction Society (WSFS): While not strictly a professional organization, WSFS plays a crucial role in promoting the genre and fostering a sense of community. The annual Worldcon, organized by WSFS, is a legendary gathering for science fiction and fantasy fans and professionals alike, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, learning, and celebration.

Research and Archival Treasures

Whether crafting a historical epic or a fantastical reimagining of our world, research is paramount.

• Historical Archives and Libraries: Primary source materials are the lifeblood of any compelling historical narrative. Delving into historical archives and libraries allows writers to unearth authentic details, understand cultural nuances, and avoid anachronisms that can shatter a reader’s suspension of disbelief. Online archives are becoming increasingly accessible.

Dedicated Worldbuilding Platforms

For those who prefer a structured approach to worldbuilding, dedicated platforms offer a comprehensive suite of tools.

• World Anvil: World Anvil stands out as a robust platform designed specifically for worldbuilding. It provides a centralized hub for organizing every facet of your fictional universe, from intricate timelines and detailed character biographies to comprehensive maps and encyclopedic entries on cultures, religions, and magic systems. The platform’s interlinking capabilities allow for easy navigation and ensure consistency across your world.

Writing Software and Organization Tools

Effective worldbuilding requires meticulous organization. Choosing the right software can streamline the process.

• Scrivener: Scrivener is more than just a word processor; it’s a powerful project management tool tailored for writers. Its ability to handle multiple documents, research materials, and outlines in a single, easily navigable interface makes it ideal for complex worldbuilding projects. Writers can organize their thoughts, track character arcs, and maintain consistency across sprawling narratives.

Visual Inspiration and Geographical Tools

Sometimes, inspiration comes from visual sources.

• Pinterest: Pinterest can be a treasure trove of visual inspiration for writers. Creating mood boards with images of landscapes, architecture, clothing, and character concepts can help to solidify the aesthetic of your fictional world. It’s a valuable tool for sparking creativity and ensuring visual consistency.

• Google Maps/Earth: These tools are indispensable for writers who need to research real-world locations or create believable fictional maps. Google Maps allows you to explore any corner of the globe from your desk, while Google Earth offers a more immersive, three-dimensional experience.

Online Forums and Communities

The collaborative spirit of online writing communities can be invaluable.

• Online Forums and Communities for Writers: Numerous online forums and communities cater to writers of all genres. These platforms provide a space to share ideas, ask for feedback, and connect with fellow worldbuilders. Platforms like Reddit’s r/worldbuilding, for example, offer a supportive and engaged community where writers can showcase their creations, seek advice, and participate in collaborative worldbuilding projects. The feedback alone can be worth the effort of participating.

So, that’s the gist of it! The background of a story is more than just window dressing. It’s the whole stage upon which your characters dance, influencing everything they do and how we perceive them. Hopefully, this gives you some food for thought as you build (or revisit) the worlds behind your own stories. Happy writing!