Introduction: Who is P. Djèlí Clark and Why Should You Care?
Ah, the allure of a fantasy world—where myth and reality blur, history takes flight, and folklore gains a pulse. Enter P. Djèlí Clark, an author whose storytelling transcends mere escapism to serve up lessons in history, identity, and the sheer scope of what speculative fiction can achieve. If you’re a budding author searching for a masterclass in creative writing, you’ll find Clark’s works to be a veritable goldmine. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves; let’s first get to know the man behind these captivating worlds.
Born Phenderson Djèlí Clark, the writer is a brilliant blend of academic and fantasist. With an academic background in history, he brings a level of authenticity to his fantastical landscapes that sets him apart from his peers. Clark was born in Queens, New York, to immigrant parents, giving him a unique perspective on identity and belonging—a recurring theme in his works.
His writings, such as “Ring Shout,” “The Haunting of Tram Car 015,” and “A Dead Djinn in Cairo,” transcend mere storytelling. They are, in essence, a dance between historical epochs and supernatural elements. Set against a backdrop of actual events, with just enough speculative fiction elements to make them otherworldly, these works offer compelling narratives that push the boundaries of fantasy fiction. You see, Clark doesn’t merely borrow elements from folklore and history; he deconstructs them, interweaves them, and builds them up into something uniquely his own.
Clark has received several awards and nominations for his works, further establishing his prominence in the fantasy genre. To date, he’s won a Nebula Award, a Sturgeon Award, and has been a finalist for the Hugo, Locus, and World Fantasy awards. But more than accolades, what makes Clark’s works truly relevant, especially for aspiring writers, is the transformative experience they offer. Each piece serves as an example of how to construct worlds that are both whimsical and resonant. It’s a blend of historical depth and fantastical whimsy that can guide those aiming to improve their writing skills.
Another important facet of Clark’s oeuvre is the representation he brings to the table. Fantasy has long suffered from a lack of diversity, often featuring Eurocentric settings and characters. Clark breaks this mold, offering up worlds populated by diverse characters and influenced by various cultural mythologies and histories. His work challenges the norm and, in doing so, expands the boundaries of what fantasy can be.
So, what makes Clark such a magnetic north for aspiring writers? For one, his works defy classification. Yes, they are fantasy, but they are also historical fiction, mystery, and social commentary—all rolled into one. For another, his prose is finely tuned, carrying the reader effortlessly from scene to scene, while his characters breathe, ache, and celebrate in ways that make them come alive off the page. For anyone contemplating writing a novel that combines multiple genres, studying Clark’s works provides a robust blueprint.
But perhaps the most rewarding aspect of delving into Clark’s works lies in the discovery of how much room there still is for innovation in storytelling. It’s an inspiring thought for anyone looking to pick up the pen and start writing. While Clark’s works may be a fusion of many different elements, they resonate as a harmonious whole. They are, in many ways, a love letter to storytelling itself—an expansive view of what stories can do, and what they can be. For those eager to plunge into creative writing, his works are not merely entertainment but an invitation—a call to explore, innovate, and ultimately, to transform the way we think about storytelling.
Mastering the Blend: Clark’s Unique Approach to Fantasy and History
Have you ever tried making a cocktail? If so, you know that the right blend of ingredients can elevate the drink from good to extraordinary. That’s precisely what P. Djèlí Clark does with his unique approach to storytelling—he creates a narrative cocktail of folklore, mythology, and historical elements that leaves readers both captivated and thoughtful.
Now, this is easier said than done, right? But here’s the thing: Clark’s mastery lies in his deep understanding of these different elements. Consider “Ring Shout,” for instance. On the surface, it’s a tale of monster hunters in the American South, but dig deeper and you’ll find a vivid exploration of the horrors of the Ku Klux Klan and the African American experience. Clark uses Gullah folklore to reframe a historical tragedy as a supernatural horror story, challenging the reader to question the nature of monsters in our world.
So, how does Clark deftly blend history with fantasy elements? One technique he employs is layering. He often starts with a base of actual historical events or settings, over which he layers elements of mythology, folklore, or outright fantastical imagination. This creates a sense of depth and authenticity that makes his worlds feel real and lived-in. It’s like reading a historical novel and a fantasy epic rolled into one, without either feeling out of place.
Aspiring novelists, take note. Achieving this blend between fact and fantasy starts with research. You must know the history you are building upon as thoroughly as the back of your own hand. This provides a sturdy foundation for the fantastical elements you’ll introduce. And this doesn’t mean you must have a history degree; even well-researched books, documentaries, or interviews can serve as valuable resources. For those wanting to improve their writing skills, understanding how to weave in details gleaned from such research can offer a tangible sense of time and place, enriching the world you’re building.
A significant part of Clark’s success also lies in his narrative techniques. He knows how to pace his stories, when to reveal crucial information, and how to keep the reader engaged. While the storytelling in “A Dead Djinn in Cairo” leans on mystery and investigation, “The Black God’s Drums” employs an adventure structure to keep the pages turning. His narrative choices are not arbitrary; they serve the larger story he’s telling. Clark has a knack for knowing when to let the historical backdrop take center stage and when to let the fantastical elements shine, allowing for a balanced narrative that feels neither forced nor contrived.
Now, here are some writing tips to help you master this balancing act when writing a novel. First, don’t feel obligated to explain every historical or mythical element you introduce. Over-explanation can bog down your story, derailing the narrative flow. Be judicious in what you elaborate upon; sometimes, a hint or a subtle nod is sufficient to convey meaning.
Secondly, make your characters the bridge between the historical and the fantastical. The more authentic your characters are, especially in their interactions with the world around them, the more seamlessly these elements will blend. Like Clark, use your characters to challenge stereotypes and societal norms, offering a fresh perspective that can make even well-trodden historical settings feel new and invigorating.
Another piece of advice is to create your own ‘lore book’ as you go along. This is a personal repository of all the historical facts, mythical creatures, or folklore tales that populate your world. It helps maintain consistency in your storytelling and serves as a quick reference guide. You could even expand it into writing prompts to explore side stories or character backstories that can enrich your main narrative.
The most important tip? Don’t be afraid to break the rules. After all, Clark’s work stands out precisely because he doesn’t confine himself to the norms of any single genre. Take risks with your narrative. Mix elements that traditionally may not go together. It’s your world; you get to build, or break, the rules.
Applying Clark’s Magic: How to Infuse Your Own Work with Supernatural Charm
By now, you’re probably as enchanted by P. Djèlí Clark’s storytelling as I am. His unique way of blending the concrete with the ethereal provides a masterclass in genre-melding. So, let’s talk about how to bring a little of Clark’s magic into your own creative endeavors, shall we?
Steps to Improve Writing Skills Inspired by Clark’s Storytelling
1. Study the Masters: Before you attempt any blending of genres, get well-versed in each. If you want to combine history with fantasy, make sure you’re reading widely in both categories. Clark’s expertise in history and folklore didn’t happen overnight.
2. Blend Like a Pro: As we mentioned, Clark is excellent at blending elements of the real and the fantastic. Practically, this means your first draft might be a bit lopsided. Don’t worry! Keep refining. Look for elements that either pull the reader too far into fantasy or trap them in the mundane. Your job is to balance the scales.
3. Character Depth: Make your characters the vehicles for your world’s unique blend. If you’re working in a historical setting, use the attitudes, dialects, and concerns of the time to color your characters’ dialogue and choices. When you introduce a fantastical element, let the characters react in a way that feels genuine to their historical context.
4. Don’t Explain, Show: If you’re introducing a magic system or mythical creature, you don’t always have to give a lengthy exposition. Clark often uses context or character reactions to convey the importance or mechanics of a supernatural element.
5. Iterative Feedback: One of the best ways to improve writing skills is by seeking feedback. The more diverse the better. Some readers might catch historical inaccuracies, while others will focus on how engaging your fantastical elements are. Take all the feedback in stride and refine your work.
Practical Writing Prompts to Kickstart Your Supernatural Journey
If you’re staring at a blank screen, sometimes all you need is a little nudge. Inspired by Clark’s work, here are some writing prompts to get you started:
- Write a scene where a historical figure encounters a mythical creature. How does the meeting challenge or reinforce the figure’s known beliefs or attitudes?
- Envision a world where a significant historical event turned out differently because of supernatural interference. What are the consequences?
- Create a protagonist who is a scholar of folklore. What happens when they discover that one of their academic subjects is not only real but also in need of scholarly intervention?
Words of Encouragement: Be Fearless
Writers, especially new ones, often stick to what they know. It’s safer, less intimidating. But remember, Clark stepped beyond traditional boundaries, mixing elements that many would consider incompatible. Why? Because he understood that stories live and breathe in the grey areas, those in-between spaces where rigid categories overlap.
Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself to blend genres, even if it feels unnatural at first. Every great storyteller started as an amateur, and every seasoned writer was once where you are now—on the brink of something new and magical.
So, whether you’re looking to write your first fantasy novel or you’re an experienced writer trying to stretch your creative wings, take some inspiration from P. Djèlí Clark. The boundaries of genre, after all, are just invitations to cross over into new realms. Your journey into the supernatural awaits, and it promises to be as exhilarating and educational as any adventure Clark has penned.
It’s time to brew your own narrative potion, combining the lore of old and the imagination of the new. Your writing cauldron is bubbling with potential; all it needs is for you to dare, to try, and to write. So, go ahead, add your unique ingredients and stir the pot. Your own magical blend of storytelling is waiting to be discovered, and who knows? The results might be spellbinding.
✍️ Whether you’re mastering the art of dialogue, structure, or character development, the power of AI can be a game-changer in your writing journey. My Free Ebook, ‘AI for Authors’ delves into how AI-powered prompts can provide a unique edge to your storytelling process. If you’re intrigued by the prospect of supercharging your fiction skills, download your free copy today and explore new horizons in creative writing.
A.I. in Screen Trade 