Avid readers know that some stories seem to rely more on setting than others. Sometimes, the setting is so prominent it feels like a character. In other books, the setting is a bare-bones backdrop to the story.

But no matter how subtle, the setting has more impact on your story than you may realize because it’s where your characters live. They must act within it and react to it regardless. These factors range from everything from geography, to the current events of their time to available technology.

Can you imagine Scarlett O’Hara reacting to World War I rather than The War Between the States? Or the Crusades? Of if she lived in Ohio instead of Georgia?

What if Batman lived in Mayberry, North Carolina, instead of Gotham? (Today’s photo is proof that it could happen!)

While a great romance, mystery or other timeless story will touch hearts regardless of the setting, I would still caution writers not to be too cavalier when choosing settings. Not only do your characters have to live in your setting, but you also have to live with it. Be sure you love the place and time period you choose.

Your turn:

What is your favorite setting to write?

What is your favorite setting to read?

What setting would you find most difficult to write?

 

[Today’s photo found at http://forums.officer.com/t118008/]