

If you ever find yourself staring at a blank page, waiting for inspiration to hit, then you’re not alone. Fantasy writing invites us into worlds beyond our own, filled with magic, adventure, and limitless possibilities. Sometimes, all it takes to ignite your imagination is a simple prompt to set you on your creative journey. This collection of 20 fantasy writing prompts is designed to inspire you, help you break through writer’s block, and explore new narrative landscapes.
Whether you’re crafting an epic saga or a whimsical short story, each prompt is crafted to spark your creativity in unexpected ways. Let’s dive into this treasure trove of ideas and see where your imagination takes you!
1. A Secret Garden of Forgotten Dreams

Imagine a hidden garden where the dreams of those who have lost hope grow into vibrant flowers. Each flower represents a dream unfulfilled, waiting to be discovered. What happens when a curious character stumbles upon this magical place?
This prompt opens up avenues for exploring themes of hope, redemption, and the power of dreams. You could introduce a character who tends to the garden and helps visitors reclaim their dreams, or perhaps someone who unwittingly destroys it. As you jot down your ideas, consider using the Smarpau Notebook A5 lined journal. Its 360 pages of thick, college-ruled paper are perfect for brainstorming and capturing your thoughts as your story unfolds.
Delve into questions like why the dreams faded away, what challenges the character faces in nurturing these dreams, and how the dreams manifest physically. To inspire even more creativity, you might want to explore the 500 Fantasy Writing Prompts. This collection of prompts can provide a wealth of ideas that complement your new garden narrative.
As you write, reflect on how the garden could change based on the character’s actions and decisions. For deeper insights into crafting your setting and characters, consider the Art of World Building Workbook: Fantasy Edition. This resource can guide you through the process of building an immersive fantasy world that echoes the themes of your story. Happy writing!
Product Recommendations:
• Smarpau Notebook A5 lined journal
• 500 Fantasy Writing Prompts
• Art of World Building Workbook: Fantasy Edition
2. The Last Dragon of Eldoria

In a land where dragons once roamed freely, only one remains. This dragon, older than time, possesses the secrets of the universe. However, the kingdom now sees it as a threat rather than an ally.
What happens when a brave soul decides to approach the dragon? Are they seeking wisdom, or do they have a hidden agenda?
As you delve into this prompt, consider exploring the rich history between dragons and humans. What wisdom does the dragon offer? How does the character’s perception of the dragon evolve throughout their encounter?
To help spark your creativity, you might find the Fantasy Writing Prompt Journal useful. With 500 fantasy writing prompts, it’s a perfect companion to generate fresh story ideas that can enhance your narrative about the last dragon of Eldoria.
Additionally, the Writer’s Idea Book offers a space for jotting down your thoughts and expanding on your character development. This resource can help you explore the complexities of understanding, conflict, and the balance between fear and respect in a world where legends live.
Engaging with these products can elevate your storytelling, allowing you to craft a compelling tale that resonates with readers.
Product Recommendations:
• Fantasy Writing Prompt Journal
• Writer’s Idea Book
• The Ultimate Guide to Writing Fantasy
3. Time Traveler’s Dilemma

What if you could travel back to any moment in history, but each time you return, the present changes drastically? This prompt challenges your character to make tough choices about what moments to alter or preserve.
Consider the implications of their actions:
– How does changing one event ripple through time?
– What personal stakes does the character face?
– Is there a villain trying to exploit the time travel for their gain?
As you delve into this scenario, a great way to capture your thoughts and ideas is with a writing journal. The Smarpau Notebook A5 is perfect for organizing your notes and plotting out the complex timelines that come with time travel narratives.
Additionally, if you’re looking to deepen your understanding of fantasy writing techniques, consider the fantasy writing guide. This comprehensive resource offers invaluable tips and strategies that can help you navigate the blend of fantasy and science fiction in your story.
For inspiration, immerse yourself in the incredible narratives found in time travel fiction anthology. This collection features stories from renowned authors that can spark your imagination and provide insight into the complexities of time travel storytelling.
This scenario blends fantasy and science fiction, pushing you to think about causality and personal morality while weaving an engaging story.
Product Recommendations:
• Smarpau Notebook A5
• fantasy writing guide
• time travel fiction anthology
4. The Music of the Elements

In a world where each element has its own music, people are born with the ability to harness these sounds. Imagine a character discovering they can create melodies that summon storms, grow plants, or calm fires. This unique talent opens a plethora of intriguing questions: what implications does this power have? Are there factions that want to control it? How does the world react when this ability is revealed? And what personal struggles does the character face with their newfound fame?
To delve deeper into these themes, consider enhancing your writing with the Writer’s Idea Book, which offers a master list of plot ideas and creative exercises to help you explore the narrative possibilities of this prompt.
Additionally, to enrich your characters’ emotional depth and expression, the Emotion Thesaurus: a Writer’s Guide to Character Expression can be an invaluable resource. It provides insights into how your characters might feel and react to their extraordinary abilities and the fame that comes with it.
Finally, if you’re looking to strengthen your overall writing skills in the fantasy genre, “Writing Fantasy & Science Fiction: How to Create Out-of-This-World Novels and Short Stories” is a great tool, guiding you through the complexities of crafting compelling stories in magical realms.
This prompt opens the door for a rich exploration of culture, music, and the elemental bonds that tie us together, and with these resources, you’ll be well-equipped to bring your imaginative ideas to life.
Product Recommendations:
• The Writer’s Idea Book
• The Emotion Thesaurus: a Writer’s Guide to Character Expression
• Writing Fantasy & Science Fiction: How to Create Out-of-This-World Novels and Short Stories
5. A World Without Color

Imagine a world stripped of color, where emotions are muted and creativity is stifled. One day, a child discovers a hidden ability to restore color through their drawings. To help bring this creative journey to life, consider using an Artway Studio – casebound A5 sketchbook. This sketchbook features 92 sides of 170gsm cartridge paper, perfect for capturing the vibrant scenes as the child unleashes their imagination.
As the child navigates their newfound gift, they will face various challenges. How does society react to their ability to inject color back into a gray world? Are there others who wish to keep the world gray for their own reasons? The story could delve into these conflicts, making it essential for the child to express themselves fully. A set of KALOUR colouring pencils could enhance their drawings. With 72 soft core pencils, this set is ideal for blending and shading, allowing for the exploration of how colors impact relationships and perceptions.
This narrative can lead to a powerful exploration of the importance of self-expression and creativity within a community. To further develop your writing skills and keep track of your ideas, consider using the 642 things to write about journal. This guided writing journal offers prompts to inspire your creativity and help you refine your storytelling ability. Embrace this prompt and see how it transforms your writing process!
Product Recommendations:
• Artway Studio – casebound A5 sketchbook
• KALOUR colouring pencils
• 642 things to write about journal
6. The Tapestry of Fate

In a mystical land, every person’s life is woven into a grand tapestry that determines their fate. When a character accidentally unravels a thread, they find themselves faced with unexpected consequences.
What will they do?
– How can they mend the tapestry?
– Are there forces at play seeking to use this for their own ends?
– What does it mean to have free will versus destiny?
This narrative can explore deep philosophical questions within the framework of fantasy, creating a compelling tale of choice and consequence. To help you dive deeper into your creative journey, consider using the Writer’s Idea Book, which provides 642 prompts to inspire your storytelling and encourage you to think outside the box.
If you’re looking to expand your skills in crafting fantasy narratives, the Fantasy Writer’s Handbook offers valuable insights into creating captivating worlds and characters, ensuring you can effectively explore the intricate themes of fate and free will.
For those who enjoy a more hands-on approach, the Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Writers presents a fun storybook art kit that combines crafting with storytelling, perfect for visualizing your plot and weaving your narrative tapestry.
These resources can help you navigate the complexities of your tale while sparking your creativity and enhancing your writing skills.
Product Recommendations:
• The Writer’s Idea Book
• the Fantasy Writer’s Handbook
• the Art of Fiction: Notes on Craft for Writers
7. The Forgotten City Beneath the Waves

Beneath the ocean lies a city long forgotten, filled with treasures and mysteries. When a curious diver uncovers a way to breathe underwater, they embark on an adventure to explore this submerged kingdom.
What will they find?
– Is the city haunted by its past?
– Are there guardians protecting its secrets?
– How does this discovery affect the diver’s life on land?
This prompt allows you to build an underwater world rich with history, magic, and adventure, inviting readers to dive deep into your imagination. To help you craft this enchanting tale, consider using the World-Building Workbook for Fantasy Writers. This invaluable resource guides you through the intricacies of creating a detailed setting, ensuring your underwater city feels authentic and immersive.
Additionally, if you’re looking for a burst of inspiration, check out Fantasy Writing Prompt Cards. These cards can help spark new ideas and twists to your narrative, making your dive into this mysterious kingdom even more exciting. With these tools, you’re well-equipped to craft a captivating underwater adventure that readers won’t forget!
Product Recommendations:
• World-Building Workbook for Fantasy Writers
• Fantasy Writing Prompt Cards
• Underwater Photography Guide for Creatives
8. A Library of Infinite Stories

What if you stumbled upon a library where every book transports you to a new world? Each story is alive, and readers can influence the plot. A character’s journey through this library could change their life forever.
To help you dive into this imaginative prompt, consider the following elements: What rules govern this magical library? How does the character learn to navigate its complexities? Are there dangers associated with meddling in the stories? Exploring these questions can ignite your creativity, and to assist you further, check out these resources.
First, the Writer’s Idea Book is perfect for jotting down your thoughts and ideas as you brainstorm the intricacies of this library and its enchanting stories. Additionally, the Creative Writer’s Notebook provides a collection of exercises by great authors that can inspire you to develop characters and plots in this fantastical setting.
Lastly, consider the Fantasy Writer’s Handbook, which offers insights into crafting captivating fantasy narratives and navigating the unique challenges of the genre. This handbook is a valuable companion as you unravel the mysteries of your library of infinite stories.
This prompt opens a portal to explore creativity and the power of storytelling within a fantastical frame, and these resources can help you on your journey.
Product Recommendations:
• Writer’s Idea Book
• Creative Writer’s Notebook
• Fantasy Writer’s Handbook
9. The Guardian of Lost Souls

In a realm where lost souls wander, a guardian emerges to guide them towards their final destination. This guardian, however, is hiding a secret about their own past.
As you explore the rich narratives around this guardian, consider how they manage their duties while grappling with their own lost soul. Conflicts arise when they encounter someone they were meant to save, forcing them to confront their unresolved issues. Can they uphold their role while navigating these challenges?
To effectively craft your story, you might find the Writer’s Idea Book to be an invaluable resource. It provides a space for you to jot down ideas and develop characters, helping you flesh out the guardian’s complex background.
Additionally, understanding the emotional depth of your characters is crucial. The book the Emotional Craft of Fiction: How to Write the Story Beneath the Surface can guide you in expressing the inner turmoil of your guardian and the souls they guide, making their journey more relatable and impactful.
For a more interactive approach, consider using Rory’s Story Cubes. This game can spark creativity by giving you visual prompts that inspire various plot twists and character dynamics, enhancing the storytelling experience.
This tale can delve into themes of redemption, duty, and the nature of the afterlife intertwined with fantasy, all while being supported by these helpful resources.
Product Recommendations:
• Writer’s Idea Book
• the Emotional Craft of Fiction: How to Write the Story Beneath the Surface
• Rory’s Story Cubes
10. The Clockmaker’s Apprentice

In a world where time is meticulously controlled by clockmakers, an apprentice stumbles upon a timepiece that alters reality. This discovery leads to exciting adventures but also serious consequences.
What follows?
– How does the apprentice cope with the responsibilities that come with this power?
– Are there factions that want the clockwork for themselves?
– What personal sacrifices will they make to protect their loved ones?
Exploring the intricacies of time can create a rich narrative filled with suspense and emotional depth. To aid you in crafting your story, consider using Writing Prompt Journal, which offers guidance and inspiration when you’re brainstorming ideas.
If you’re looking to delve deeper into character development and plot creation, the Writer’s Idea Book can help you generate fresh concepts and enhance your storytelling skills.
For a comprehensive understanding of fantasy writing, Fantasy Writing Guide is a valuable resource that covers everything from world-building to character arcs. These tools will support you in navigating the complexities of your narrative and bring your imaginative journey to life.
Product Recommendations:
• Writing Prompt Journal
• Writer’s Idea Book
• Fantasy Writing Guide
11. The Festival of Forgotten Legends

In an annual festival celebrating ancient legends, a character discovers that the stories are more than just tales; they’re living memories seeking to be honored. As they interact with these forgotten figures, their understanding of history dramatically shifts. This prompt allows for a fusion of past and present, creating a vibrant narrative that honors storytelling and legacy.
To fully immerse yourself in this creative exploration, consider jotting down your thoughts and ideas in a Smarpau Notebook A5 lined journal. With 360 pages of thick, college-ruled paper, it’s perfect for capturing your character’s journey and the lessons learned from the legends.
As you dive deeper into this narrative, you might find inspiration in Writing Fantasy (the Ultimate Guide and Complete Reference Book). This comprehensive guidebook can help you navigate the intricacies of fantasy writing, ensuring that the interaction between the legends and the modern world is both compelling and authentic.
Additionally, for a fun way to brainstorm ideas, consider using Rory’s Story Cubes. This family dice game can spark creativity by providing unique prompts that may lead your characters to face challenges or encounters you hadn’t previously considered.
With these tools at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the rich narrative possibilities of “The Festival of Forgotten Legends.”
Product Recommendations:
• Smarpau Notebook A5 lined journal
• Writing Fantasy (the Ultimate Guide and Complete Reference Book)
• Rory’s Story Cubes
12. The Shadow Thief

In a city where shadows have lives of their own, a thief discovers a way to manipulate them. This power opens doors to new heists but also brings unforeseen consequences.
What challenges does the thief face?
– How do they balance their newfound power with moral dilemmas?
– Are shadows allies or foes in their quest?
– What happens when their own shadow seeks freedom?
As you dive into this imaginative world, consider jotting down your thoughts and ideas in the Smarpau Notebook A5 lined journal. With 360 pages of thick paper, it’s perfect for capturing every twist and turn of your plot, as well as any moral quandaries your thief faces.
To further develop your story, the Writing Fantasy guidebook can be an invaluable resource. This ultimate guide offers insights into world-building and character development, helping you explore themes of identity and power in depth.
If you’re looking for inspiration, try using Rory’s Story Cubes. These story dice can spark your creativity, guiding you through unexpected challenges your thief might face, including the relationship between them and their shadow.
This prompt can explore what it means to be truly free within a fantastical framework, and with these tools, you’ll be well-equipped to unleash your creativity.
Product Recommendations:
• Smarpau Notebook A5 lined journal
• Writing Fantasy guidebook
• Rory’s Story Cubes
13. The Crystal Caverns

Deep in the mountains lies a network of caverns filled with magical crystals that reflect the true emotions of those who enter. A character finds themselves trapped and must confront their own feelings to escape.
As they navigate this emotional labyrinth, they might discover profound truths about themselves. The crystals could communicate their inner turmoil in ways they never expected, sparking moments of raw realization. To help bring these emotional nuances to life, consider using the Emotion Thesaurus: a writer’s guide to character expression, a fantastic resource that can assist in articulating complex feelings that arise in your character.
Are there others trapped alongside them? This could lead to unexpected alliances and confrontations. Keeping track of these interactions and ideas can be challenging, but you can organize your thoughts in the Writer’s Idea Book, which serves as a perfect space for brainstorming character dynamics and plot twists.
What do they learn about themselves during this ordeal? This prompt is rich for exploration of emotional depth and self-discovery through a fantastical lens. If you find yourself needing a boost in creativity, consider the Artist’s Way: a spiritual path to higher creativity. It offers valuable insights and exercises that can help unlock your creative potential, making your writing journey even more fulfilling.
Embrace the challenge of the Crystal Caverns—it’s a unique opportunity for deep exploration and character growth!
Product Recommendations:
• The Emotion Thesaurus: a writer’s guide to character expression
• the Writer’s Idea Book
• the Artist’s Way: a spiritual path to higher creativity
14. The Healer’s Curse

In a land where healing powers are both revered and feared, a healer discovers that their gift comes with a terrible curse. As they struggle to save others, they risk losing themselves.
What conflicts arise?
– Can they find a way to break the curse?
– How do those around them respond to their struggles?
– What sacrifices must they make for the greater good?
This prompt presents a unique blend of fantasy and personal struggle, exploring the consequences of power and responsibility. To help you navigate these complex themes in your writing, consider using the Writer’s Idea Book, which offers inspiration and guidance for developing your story further.
Additionally, the Emotion Thesaurus: a Writer’s Guide to Character Expression can be invaluable as you delve into the emotional depth of your characters, helping you portray their struggles and the reactions of those around them authentically.
For a deeper understanding of crafting engaging fantasy narratives, check out the Fantasy Fiction Formula. This resource will equip you with the tools needed to balance the fantastical elements of your story with the personal challenges your healer faces, ensuring a compelling and relatable journey for your readers.
Product Recommendations:
• Writer’s Idea Book
• Emotion Thesaurus: a Writer’s Guide to Character Expression
• the Fantasy Fiction Formula
15. The Enchanted Compass

A seemingly ordinary compass has the power to lead its holder to what they desire most. But what happens when desires clash and chaos ensues? The holder must navigate not only the physical journey but the emotional turmoil it brings. To delve deeper into this concept, consider documenting your thoughts and ideas in a writing prompt journal, which provides structured guidance to help you unlock your creative potential.
As you explore this prompt, think about the following questions:
– What is the true desire of the character?
– Are there others trying to take the compass for themselves?
– How do the desires of others impact the journey?
These inquiries encourage you to examine themes like desire, ambition, and the consequences of our choices, making them incredibly relatable yet fantastical. To support your writing journey, consider using Fantasy Writing, a comprehensive guidebook that offers essential techniques and insights for crafting immersive fantasy narratives.
Additionally, as your character’s journey unfolds, you might find it helpful to develop rich, multi-dimensional characters. The character development workbook is an excellent resource for this purpose, providing tools to refine your characters’ desires and conflicts more effectively.
By integrating these resources into your writing process, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the intricate tapestry of desire and chaos woven throughout your story.
Product Recommendations:
• Fantasy Writing Workbook
• The Writer’s Idea Book: A Notebook for Writers
• The Ultimate Guide to Writing Fantasy
16. The Dreamweaver’s Dilemma

In a world where dreams can be shaped and woven by a special few known as Dreamweavers, a crisis arises when nightmares begin to invade the dreams of the innocent. One Dreamweaver must confront their greatest fears to reclaim the dreams.
What struggles do they face?
– How do they navigate the dream world while combating nightmares?
– What personal revelations occur in this surreal landscape?
– Are there other Dreamweavers with differing agendas?
To help you dive into this imaginative journey, consider using the Dream Journal. This beautiful journal is perfect for capturing your thoughts and ideas as you explore the intricacies of dreams and nightmares. Recording your insights can provide clarity and spark creativity as you develop your narrative.
For those looking for guidance on crafting compelling fantasy stories, the Fantasy Writing Guide is an invaluable resource. It offers tips and techniques that can help you navigate the complexities of your plot while enhancing character development and world-building.
Additionally, the Writer’s Idea Book serves as a fantastic brainstorming companion. Its pages are designed to help you capture fleeting inspirations and organize your thoughts, ensuring you never lose track of your brilliant ideas.
This prompt opens the door to a creative exploration of dreams, fears, and the power of the subconscious, and with these tools, you’ll be well-equipped to weave your own unique tale.
Product Recommendations:
• Dream Journal
• Fantasy Writing Guide
• Writer’s Idea Book
17. The Map of Lost Hopes

An ancient map surfaces, leading its holder to places where hopes were lost, offering a chance for redemption. But what if each location comes with a challenge tied to the hope that was lost?
What will the character face?
– Are the places physical manifestations of these lost hopes?
– How do they confront the past while moving towards the future?
– What revelations will they have about their own life?
As you dive into this prompt, consider using a writing journal like the Smarpau Notebook A5. Its 360 pages of thick paper provide the perfect canvas for capturing your thoughts, ideas, and the emotions that arise as you navigate the intricate themes of loss, recovery, and self-discovery through fantastical elements.
Additionally, you might find the fantasy writing guidebook invaluable. This comprehensive resource can help structure your narrative and enhance your storytelling, offering tips and insights as you embark on your journey.
To brainstorm and organize your ideas effectively, consider using the mind mapping tool. With assorted templates, it can help you visualize the connections between your character’s past and their quest for redemption, ensuring a deeper exploration of the challenges they face.
This prompt is not just about the adventure; it’s about the transformative power of confronting lost hopes and moving towards a brighter future.
Product Recommendations:
• Smarpau Notebook A5
• fantasy writing guidebook
• mind mapping tool
18. The Last Wish

A character discovers a legendary creature that grants wishes, but only one wish remains. This prompts a moral dilemma: what would they wish for?
Consider these angles:
– How does the choice reflect their deepest desires?
– Are there unforeseen consequences to this final wish?
– How do their relationships change as a result?
To help you explore these themes of desire, sacrifice, and the weight of choices in a fantasy context, you might find the Writer’s Idea Book invaluable. This comprehensive collection of prompts and creative exercises can inspire fresh ideas and help you think deeply about your character’s motivations.
If you want to delve into the emotional aspects of your story, consider the Emotional Craft of Fiction. This book provides advanced techniques to engage readers on a deeper level, making your character’s final wish resonate powerfully.
For a more interactive experience, Rory’s Story Cubes can serve as a fun tool to generate ideas and stimulate your creativity. With this dice game, you can explore various narrative paths and uncover new angles for your wish-driven story.
With these resources at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the complexities of your fantasy tale.
Product Recommendations:
• Writer’s Idea Book
• the Emotional Craft of Fiction
• Rory’s Story Cubes
19. The Unseen World

What if there are hidden realms existing alongside ours, invisible to ordinary eyes? A character accidentally stumbles into this unseen world, revealing magic and wonders they never knew existed.
As you explore this intriguing concept, consider how to develop your narrative with the right tools. The fantasy world-building workbook can help you craft the unique landscapes and societies of this hidden realm, ensuring your story feels rich and immersive.
Think about the challenges your character will face. How do they adapt to their new surroundings? Will they encounter dangers lurking in this world? The writer’s idea book is a fantastic resource for brainstorming how your character navigates these obstacles, helping you capture those moments of tension and excitement.
Additionally, consider the connections your character will forge with beings from this unseen realm. To delve deeper into the emotional aspects of these relationships, the emotional craft of fiction: how to write the story beneath the surface can guide you in developing authentic interactions that resonate with readers.
This prompt allows for a rich narrative filled with exploration, wonder, and the discovery of new friendships in a fantastical setting.
Product Recommendations:
• writer’s idea book
• the emotional craft of fiction: how to write the story beneath the surface
20. The Master of Illusions

A master illusionist prepares for their greatest trick yet, but as they delve deeper into their art, the lines between reality and illusion begin to blur. What happens when they can no longer distinguish the two? This narrative can explore how their relationships suffer or thrive under the weight of deception, the truths they uncover about themselves, and the potential external forces trying to exploit their abilities.
To help you develop this captivating storyline, consider using the writer’s idea book to jot down your thoughts and inspirations as they come. This journal is perfect for capturing fleeting ideas and developing them into fully-fledged concepts.
As you craft your characters, the Emotion Thesaurus: a writer’s guide to character expression can be an invaluable resource. It helps you convey the complex emotions your illusionist experiences, making their journey relatable and engaging.
Additionally, for guidance on structuring your narrative, Steering the Craft: a twenty-first-century guide to sailing the sea of story offers practical advice on pacing and style. This book will help you navigate the intricate blend of reality and illusion in your story, ensuring that readers remain captivated until the final reveal.
This prompt provides an opportunity to delve into psychological themes wrapped in a fantastical narrative, prompting readers to question what is real.
Product Recommendations:
• writer’s idea book
• Emotion Thesaurus: a writer’s guide to character expression
• Steering the Craft: a twenty-first-century guide to sailing the sea of story
Conclusion

These prompts serve as keys to unlock your creativity and propel you into new realms of imagination. Each idea encourages exploration, growth, and the joy of storytelling, bringing your unique voice to life.
So, grab your pen and let these prompts guide you on your next fantasy writing venture. Who knows what incredible worlds await your discovery?
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