Writing a version of theogony similar to but not copying Hesiod's is not only challenging, but fun as hell! I love the grand metamorphosis of darkness, chaos, and nothingness to the world we see and know- in the land of make believe. My particular version, however, incorporates many of the creation myths rolled up into one with a whole new flavor: similar dissimilarity. What I mean is the starting point, or singularity if you will, is the same dark emptiness which is then 'sparked' by the primordeal deities spontaneously springing into existence. These entities being the basic forms, beings, and states of nature. Step two being the joining of these deities and at times the parthenogenesis of others to constitute the 'catalyst' deities through which the 'third generation' of gods will come into being and take power, thus finalizing the creation of the world.
The basic premise is undoubtedly Greek, with the world-forming aspect being strictly Nordic, and the the nitty-gritty being a combo of Greco-Roman, Nordic, Celtic, and several Oriental mythos being the real meat and potatoes of it all.
Then comes the creation of mankind and all other manner of creatures, beasts, monsters, animals, and all the fun stuff like that. It's that dirt underneath the fingernails kind of writing work that I love to do: creating entirely new worlds from the underworld to the heavens. The smallest most pathetic soul trapped in eternal torment to the highest and most powerful gods dwelling in paradise, makes for exhilarating writing!
One more thing, please check out my Prologue under A Bit More at the top of my page, and tell me what you think. Thanks.
So much fun playing with the gods. I like the dirt under the fingernail kind of writing best too.
ReplyDeleteIt's very satisfying writing a creation narrative to help the story along. I love the detail of explaining and showing how 'things came to be'.
ReplyDeleteFabulous post! Creating such a dynamic creation epic is truly 'meat & potatoes', as you stated. Can't wait to read it.... ~ Nadja
ReplyDeleteBy the way....The prologue is amazing! The graphic nature of the scene was conveyed very well with varied language, both dark and poetic, and the emotion was tangible. ~ Nadja
ReplyDeleteYep that is right up my alley… it’s very important to love what you’re writing about, the writing will shine because of it, and not to mention, it makes it easier to sit down and get some writing done.
ReplyDeleteNadja- It is deep core material essential to the story and in a sense, it's also the catalyst.
ReplyDeleteJeff- I agree, it makes it so much easier to write when you've got all of your facts and details straight so you don't change a thing that contradicts an earlier statement.
Congrats on finding that spark! I've found several scenes and research items this week that make me chomp at the bit to write too. Have a super week!
ReplyDeletehttp://fateandfaith-julee.blogspot.com/2011/05/follow-friday-and-my-first-attempt-at.html
This all sounds fantastic Julius. It sounds like a rich and exciting background. Keep up the good work.
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