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Originally Posted by Nancy Fulda
(...) So I'm trying to pin down what creates the feel of an epic work. What gives it that sense of sweeping scope and resonating significance?
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As I come to understand it, 'epic' is about the solidity of the stories world, and the way this makes the reader become part of it.
For instance, I would call the book MOTHERLINE epic, due to its solid world and characters. I also think GANGS OF NEW YORK had that epic thing going. Stephen Kings IT was epic too.
If the protagonist don't care about the world -- if he just sits on his ass posting likes on Facebook, because, like, whatever -- then his mental image of his world lacks solidity. If the characters don't feel passionate about their world, why should the reader?
On the other hand, when the characters give a fuck - for instance, if they are fighting against some sort of evil force - then it gives the universe solidity. But, I don't think a saving-the-world plot or any other fantasy cliché in themselves makes a story 'epic'.
Quote:
Originally Posted by fjtorres
Which reminds me: could a comedy be a true epic? Or do epics have to be dead serious somber overall? Is there room for whimsy in "epic"?
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How about DOCTOR STRANGELOVE?