FallenKingdomReads’ list of The Most Creative Forms of Magic in Fantasy Books.
Magic is an integral part of many fantasy books, and authors have come up with a wide range of creative and innovative magic systems. Here are some of the most unique and creative forms of magic in fantasy books, along with examples of books that use them.
Sympathetic Magic
This form of magic involves creating a link between two objects, so that whatever happens to one object also happens to the other. In Patrick Rothfuss‘ The Kingkiller Chronicle series, the protagonist Kvothe uses sympathetic magic to bind his blood to a piece of iron, allowing him to control and move it with his mind.
Naming Magic
This form of magic involves knowing the true name of something or someone, which gives the magician power over it. In Ursula K. Le Guin‘s Earthsea series, the magic users are trained to learn the true names of everything around them, allowing them to exert control over them.
Blood Magic
This form of magic involves using blood to fuel spells and rituals. In Brent Weeks’ Lightbringer series, some magic users have the ability to use their own blood to create powerful spells.
Glyph Magic
This form of magic involves inscribing magical symbols, or glyphs, on objects or surfaces to create magical effects. In Brandon Sanderson‘s Elantris and Stormlight Archive series, glyph magic is used to create powerful wards and defenses.
Elemental Magic
This form of magic involves manipulating the elements of nature – earth, air, fire, and water – to create magical effects. In Mercedes Lackey’s Elemental Masters series, magic users have the ability to control one of the elements and use it to create powerful spells.
Rune Magic
This form of magic involves using runes, or ancient symbols, to create magical effects. In Kevin Hearne’s Iron Druid Chronicles series, the protagonist Atticus O’Sullivan uses rune magic to create powerful wards and spells.
Chaos Magic
This form of magic involves manipulating and harnessing the chaotic energy of the universe. In Michael Moorcock’s Elric of Melniboné series, the protagonist Elric is a powerful sorcerer who uses chaos magic to fuel his spells.
Dream Magic
This form of magic involves manipulating the dreams of oneself or others to create magical effects. In Neil Gaiman‘s Sandman series, the protagonist Dream is the ruler of the realm of dreams and has the ability to manipulate them.
Shadow Magic
This form of magic involves manipulating shadows and darkness to create magical effects. In C.S. Lewis‘ Chronicles of Narnia series, the villainous Queen Jadis is able to use shadow magic to create powerful illusions.
Conclusion
Fantasy authors have come up with an endless variety of magic systems, each with their unique rules and restrictions. These creative forms of magic add depth and intrigue to fantasy books and are often integral to the plot and characters. Whether it’s sympathetic magic or shadow magic, these forms of magic continue to captivate readers and inspire new generations of fantasy writers.
