Where should your story take place?

Answer 1

This is dependent on a whole lot of things. It is very helpful to have your setting be an integral component of the story. If setting is an important part of characterization or plot or theme then there is a good possibility that your work will be deemed of 'higher class'.

For example, it greatly helps the novel Dracula to be (initially) base in Transylvania.

The same can be said for Moby Dick.

* Frankenstein

* Nightfall * Mission of Gravity * Left Hand of Darkness * Red Badge of Courage * The Open Boat The list can go on and on.

What you must do is consider what setting would be best to 'bring out' the 'virtues or vices' of your characters that you wish to exploit, or plot structures that you wish to engage.

For example: what if you wish to show the dehumanizing effect of industrialized society on the human spirit. Would it be well to place such a story in a rural setting? (Actually Adolph Huxley did this in Brave New World BUT the majority of such stories are in crowded slums: 1984, V for Vendetta, We, Repent Harlequin cried the Tick Tock Man...)

Both Frankenstein and Moby Dick are concerned with destructive obsessions and both at some point take place on a sailing ship. Maybe there is some aspect of sailing vessels that lean itself to the concept.

If you wish to share your plot, characterization, theme etc with us, perhaps we can make better suggestions.

Answer 2

Write about a place you know! Either pick a place that you have been personally, or about a place you like so much that you want to do the research that you'll need to make it seem as if you've been there.

Answer 3

Your story could take place in a variety of settings such as a small town, a bustling city, a mystical forest, or even in outer space. Consider the mood and themes of your story to determine the most suitable location that will enhance the overall narrative.