What is Fantasy Fiction? - with English fantasy author Neil Mach

Neil Mach


Region:
South East
Notice Period:
Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
Type:
author
Fee:
Expensed: sensible contribution towards travel expenses is welcome but is voluntary
Category:
Humanities
Updated:
1st September 2024

“What is Fantasy Fiction?” with English fantasy author Neil Mach

Neil’s illustrated talk, titled “What is Fantasy Fiction?” lasts for 45 to 60 minutes.

In the presentation, the author discusses why humans feel a “need” to create fantasy, as he outlines the essential definitions of the genre.

The main theme of Neil’s writing is the intersection of reality and fantasy. He is commonly known as a ‘fantologist’ among the fantasy fiction community.

The author’s 45-minute slideshow is an engaging discussion on the concept of ‘liminal space,’ its significance, and the definition of ‘fantasy.’

Neil leads his audience on an enjoyable exploration of the history of fantasy literature.

Neil combines his philosophical intellect with a curiosity about how humans are inclined to imagine alternate realms, fantastical creatures, supernatural abilities, and beneficial mythologies. Neil employs practical thinking to investigate the evolution of fantasy, presenting evidence on its beginnings, reasons, and even settings.

He addresses various topics in this fascinating presentation.

  • What is the key component of fantasy?

  • How do you define fantasy fiction?

  • What does liminality mean?

  • What is a liminoid experience?

  • What sets a myth apart from a fairytale?

  • What is the definition of magical?

  • What is the difference between high fantasy and low fantasy?

About the author:

Neil’s impressive record includes winning NaNoWriMo multiple times and writing 20 books. In his popular urban fantasy ‘Moondog’ series, the central character is a ‘praeternatural detective’ who delves into events that blur the line between the ordinary and the extraordinary. As part of National Novel Writing Month, he guides emerging writers and promotes the value of original ideas over formal language conventions.

The author has been featured as a guest on several prominent radio shows, on television, and on podcasts.

Links:

https://www.facebook.com/author.neilmach https://www.neilmachauthor.com/

Views: 382 | Enquiries: 1

About Neil Mach

Neil Mach is considered highly skilled in the art of public speaking.

It doesn’t matter how big or small your audience is! The author has delivered speeches to audiences of various sizes and ages, ranging from theatres to living rooms, and from care homes to first schools.

With over 20 books written, Neil is not only a published author but also a multi-time NaNoWriMo champion. Neil describes himself as a ‘hippy grandad!’’

His home is located in Surrey, England, by the River Thames.

In National Novel Writing Month, he guides new writers in a well-structured mentoring initiative.

After retiring from public service, Neil became an internationally recognized author/journalist in the music industry. He founded the ‘Rock Pen’ school to nurture aspiring music writers and has made valuable contributions to various esteemed publications, newsletters, and blogs.

During 2021, he curated an exhibition that was highly acclaimed and delivered a talk on the ‘Coronation Charts’, which marked the beginning of pop charts in British music history.

In 2024, he arranged a temporary exhibition focused on Led Zeppelin in 1969. He later conducted presentations on the same subject.

Neil makes regular appearances on TV and is a frequent guest on radio and podcasts.

Don’t miss Neil’s fascinating 45–60 minute illustrated talk exploring the question, “What is Fantasy Fiction?” In his entertaining talk, the author explores the “need” for fantasy creation in humans and explains the fundamental definitions of the genre. He delves into questions like: What makes up the key element of fantasy? What is fantasy fiction? What is liminality? What is a liminoid experience? What’s the difference between myth and fairytale? What is the definition of magical? What is the difference between high fantasy and low fantasy?

The author is delighted to offer engaging & meaningful slideshow presentations to associations, care homes, book groups, schools, libraries, community centres, and societies across Surrey and Thames Valley area. If you need him quickly, the author is often available at short notice.

The author is aware of the financial constraints of small community groups and associations, so offers his illustrated talks for free, but would appreciate a reasonable contribution towards his travel expenses.

Neil brings mementos, artifacts, and ephemera with him to aid in triggering audience memories. He also provides his own equipment.

+++++++++++++++++++++++ Links:

https://www.facebook.com/author.neilmach

https://www.neilmachauthor.com/

+++++++++++++++++++++++

Significant podcast episodes:

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/josiane-fortin7/episodes/80-Where-Fantasy-Authors-Ought-to-Begin-e1igc4n/a-a2ks2ah

https://www.spreaker.com/user/tomreaoch/neil-mach-author-so-you-want-to-write-fa

TV appearances:

The Repossible Show

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fStjDjkV9M&t=114s&pp=ygUJbmVpbCBtYWNo

The Self Publishing Queen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMmaTR7SSZ0&t=16s&pp=ygUJbmVpbCBtYWNo


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