Fairy tales provide timeless life lessons hidden in fantasy. Putting a modern spin on this classic genre while preserving its magic takes thoughtful planning. Follow these tips to write an enchanting contemporary fairy tale:
Choose a traditional tale to reinterpret – Select a classic fairy tale that resonates with you and brainstorm ways to translate it to a modern setting. How can you reimagine elements like the villain, quest, and morals?
Create relatable protagonists – Rather than princes and princesses, create everyday modern heroes and heroines readers can identify with. Give them realistic personalities, struggles, and flaws amidst the wonder.
Build a magical modern setting – Blend fantastical elements into real urban landscapes like enchanted city parks, supernatural nightclubs or bewitched high schools. Tap into local myths and legends.
Reframe the quest – Give the protagonist relevant modern-day obstacles to overcome like defeating standardized test scores rigged by an evil corporation or rescuing a date gone awry thanks to a mischievous matchmaking app.
Root morals in current issues – Let your fairy tale speak to a contemporary social issue like combatting school bullying, protecting the environment, or overcoming addiction through courage and compassion.
Weave in subtle magic – Sprinkle in small moments of wonder like Chance Meetings with helpful strangers, lucky coincidences, and clever magic disguises rather than over-the-top enchantments.
Build to an epic climax – Allow your hero to finally harness their inner courage, strength, and wisdom to defeat villains in a gripping third act challenge.
End with hope – While staying true to reality, close your tale by restoring justice and leaving readers uplifted.
With imaginative worldbuilding, brave but flawed characters, and meaningful modern-day themes, you can craft a fairy tale fit for the 21st century.
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G.S. Wright 