Should humans be “in the know?”

There is one decision that nearly all fantasy authors who write about humans must consider before they even start writing or typing their book. This one decision is based on a very simple question…

Should humans be “in the know?”

Basically, it’s the question of whether or not us normal, magicless, mortal human beings should even be aware that magic exists. In one scenario, humans are not allowed to know about magic. In this case, an author will somehow explain away the humans’ lack of magical knowledge. This often coincides with the creation of a paranormal police system. In some cases, magic will be relegated to a different realm. Many times, it is simply stated that fantastical creatures are careful not to expose themselves for fear of humans trying to destroy them. Authors have devised a multitude of ways in which the magicless population remains ignorant.

In the other scenario, humans are aware of magic. This might be because everyone has magical powers. In many of the books I’ve read, some sort of magical apocalypse has occurred in which magic is exposed to everyone. In other books, the magical and non-magical are segregated. 

Either way, I have found that this one detail is integral to the plot of many stories. Whether the character grew up in a society where they knew they would have magical powers, or grew up in a traditionally non-magical way and were eventually blindsided by the discovery of magic, this detail is certainly critical for most novels. It is certainly something to be aware of when reading your next fantasy book.

Fairy truly yours,

Grace W. Wong