Worldbuilding for Scatterbrained Creators

My worldbuilding framework guiding storytellers who frequently ask, "What did I forget?" A structured but flexible approach to crafting a comprehensive setting for your epics.

Although I conceived this framework nearly a year ago, I'm sharing it now in honor of my friend Matt, who is spinning a fantastic new realm of conflict and intrigue for an upcoming role-playing campaign. He absolutely doesn't need this, but he might find a gem or two hidden inside. You might discover a useful tidbit yourself, whether you are building out a sci-fi universe or a modest hamlet in a fairy forest.

This is a long post, and I apologize for that. But as Blaise Pascal once opined, “I have made this longer than usual because I have not had time to make it shorter.”

Structuring Imagination – A Personal Framework for Worldbuilding

Worldbuilding generates the oxygen that narratives breathe. Characters and Events need a setting to give them meaning. The world is the context for everything that transpires. The richer it is, the more nuance and complexity your story will have. 

My obsession with structure and articulation led me to codify my approach to worldbuilding– my SCHEMATICS framework. It reflects my ongoing battle to organize the chaos of my creative mind into something manageable, a way to navigate the endless possibility without losing my way. Much like a sieve, my memory struggles to retain the vastness of the worlds I dream up. This framework serves as my anchor, allowing me to focus on one aspect at a time, ensuring no detail escapes my attention, no matter how small.

Recognizing that not every narrative demands the complexity of a fully fleshed-out world, I've also developed a junior version of this framework. That will follow in another post. That simplified model strips down the exhaustive details to focus on the essentials, making it an ideal companion for crafting smaller narratives where every word must count.

Worldbuilding is not just an exercise in creativity; it's a narrative necessity. It defines the sandbox where our characters play, struggle, grow, and transform. This article, then, is not just a sharing of tools but an invitation to explore the depths of your imagination to push into dark corners, to codify the chaos, and craft worlds that resonate with the richness of life itself. Whether you're embarking on a sprawling epic or weaving a more intimate tale, the SCHEMATICS framework is designed to guide you, ensuring that the worlds you create are as boundless and nuanced as the stories they host. Also remember, if your setting is historical, these don’t appear out of thin air. Just do the research so you can address each component. This is the core context for your story or campaign. Do it well, and all the struggles will gain meaning and intention.

I. Introducing the SCHEMATICS Framework

In storytelling and campaign creation, the world's depth and believability can significantly enhance your audience's engagement and immersion. Whether for novels, comics, or role-playing games, a well-crafted setting acts as much more than just a backdrop; it becomes a character in its own right, with its own stories, secrets, and life. However, constructing such a world is no small feat—it requires careful thought, planning, and a systematic approach. This is where the SCHEMATICS framework comes into play.

The SCHEMATICS framework is a comprehensive guide for creators seeking to develop rich, immersive worlds. It is an acronym that stands for:

• Scope and Scale

• Culture and Customs

• History and Lore

• Environment and Ecosystem

• Magic, Science, Technology

• Art and Architecture

• Trade and Economics

• Intelligences and Lifeforms

• Conflicts and Catastrophes

• Social Class and Ethnicity

II. Exploring Each Component of SCHEMATICS 

Scope and Scale

• Geographical Boundaries: The physical limits of your world, from sprawling continents to secluded islands, set the stage for the diversity of climates, cultures, and conflicts.

• Significance of Location: The strategic or symbolic importance of specific places can influence plot developments and character motivations.

• Regions or Territories: Distinct areas within your world, each with unique characteristics, governance, and interrelations, offering varied settings for your narratives.

• Chronological Scope: The timeline of your world, detailing its history and potential future, grounding your stories in a sense of progression and change.

• Potential Evolution: Speculations on how your world might develop, allowing for dynamic storytelling that adapts and grows over time.

Culture and Customs

• Customs and Traditions: The rituals, ceremonies, and daily practices that define a culture, providing depth to social interactions and character backgrounds.

• Languages: The various languages and dialects spoken add complexity and realism to communication and cultural identity.

• Etiquette: The social norms and manners that govern interactions, offering opportunities for conflict or bonding among characters.

• Secular Rituals: The rhythms of daily life. What happens day in and day out?

• Laws: Detail the legal systems and the balance of power. How are laws made, and who enforces them?

History and Lore

• Key Historical Events: Significant past events that have shaped the current state of your world, influencing politics, society, and culture.

• Figures: Important historical personalities whose legacies impact the present, providing inspiration or cautionary tales for characters.

• Creation Myths and Cosmology: The origins of the world and its cosmological structure, grounding the supernatural or scientific elements of your setting.

• Legends and Folklore: The myths and tales passed down through generations enrich the cultural tapestry and offer quests or mysteries for characters to explore.

• Impact on Present: How history and lore influence current events, beliefs, and conflicts, lending authenticity and depth to societal dynamics.

Environment and Ecosystem

• Topography: The layout of the land, which dictates travel, settlement patterns, and strategic locations, directly influencing plot and character movement.

• Climate: The weather patterns that affect the inhabitants' lifestyle, agriculture, and survival strategies.

• Unique Geological Phenomena: Extraordinary natural features that can serve as landmarks, hazards, or sources of magic and mystery.

• Native Flora and Fauna: The plants and animals unique to your world, which can be food sources, danger, or wonder, influencing the ecosystem and culture.

• Environmental Influence: How the environment shapes the development of societies, affecting everything from architecture to social customs.

Magic, Science, Technology

• Rules Governing Magic: The principles and limitations of magic within your world, defining who can use it and its effects on society and the environment.

• Scientific Principles: The foundational laws of nature and physics that dictate technological development and understanding of the universe.

• Technological Advancements: The level and impact of technology on daily life, warfare, and social structures.

• Ethical Considerations: Moral dilemmas posed by magic, science, and technology affecting societal debates, conflicts, and character development.

Art and Architecture:

• Art: What is the creative life in your world? Are there painters and sculptors, singing and music? Art is a reflection of society, think about how your world manifests beyond the obvious.

• Architecture: The design styles of buildings and structures, influenced by the world's cultures, technologies, and materials available. The towering spires of Minas Tirith reflect a grandiose, fortified style, while the Hobbit-holes of the Shire showcase a cozy, earth-integrated approach.

• Public Spaces: Areas designated for gatherings, sports, entertainment, and leisure, such as the Roman Colosseum for gladiatorial games or Central Park in New York City as a recreational area.

• Popular Sports and Games: The kinds of sports and games that are popular, which can be crucial in cultural rituals or simple entertainment. Quidditch in "Harry Potter" is a major part of the wizarding world's culture.

• Hobbies and Leisure Activities: What people do for fun and relaxation, from painting and sculpture to storytelling and theatre. In "The Stormlight Archive," characters engage in the art of soulcasting, which is both a form of magic and a craft.

• Societal Influence: The impact of art and architecture on society, including how they reflect societal values, historical events, or the social hierarchy. The opulence of the Capitol in "The Hunger Games" contrasts sharply with the simplicity and utility of the districts, highlighting societal disparities.

Trade and Economics:

• Key Industries: Identify the primary sectors that drive the economy. For example, the mining of precious metals in "The Dwarves" or the spice trade in "Dune." These industries can shape the geopolitical landscape and create conflict or alliances.

• Occupations: What are common jobs and professions? How do they vary between regions and cultures? In "The Witcher" series, witchers are monster hunters for hire, a profession born out of necessity in a world filled with dangerous creatures.

• Economic Drivers: Understand what motivates trade and economic growth in your world. This could be natural resources, magical artifacts, or technological innovations.

• Wealth Distribution: How is wealth distributed among the population? Is there a stark contrast between the rich and the poor, like in "The Hunger Games," where the Capitol luxuriates in excess while the districts suffer in poverty?

• Currencies Used: Define the types of currency, whether it's gold coins, digital credits, or trade goods. The Iron Bank of Braavos in "Game of Thrones" showcases the power of financial institutions and the role of debt in economics.

Intelligences and Lifeforms:

• Different Intelligences: Consider the various forms of intelligence in your world, from artificial intelligence in sci-fi settings to sentient creatures in fantasy realms. The Minds in "The Culture" series by Iain M. Banks are advanced AIs that manage much of society.

• Species: Detail the different species that inhabit your world, their characteristics, and how they interact with each other. The diversity of species in "Star Trek," including Vulcans and Klingons, adds depth to the universe and explores themes of tolerance and cultural difference.

• Supernatural Beings: If your world includes supernatural elements, describe these entities and their powers. Ghosts, gods, and other mythical creatures play significant roles in many stories, like the Aes Sedai in "The Wheel of Time," who wield the One Power.

• Interactions: How do different species and intelligences coexist? Are there tensions, alliances, or misunderstandings? The dynamic between humans and elves in "The Witcher" series, often marked by prejudice and conflict, reflects broader themes of xenophobia and coexistence.

• Cultural Impact: Examine how the presence of various species and supernaturals affects culture, religion, and daily life. In "The Lord of the Rings," the Elves' immortality and connection to nature influence their culture's development, arts, and philosophy.

Conflicts and Catastrophes:

• Major Conflicts: Identify the significant struggles within your world, which could be wars, ideological clashes, or battles against dark forces. For instance, the Last Alliance of Elves and Men against Sauron in "The Lord of the Rings" shapes the history and tension of the world.

• Tensions: Explore the underlying tensions that might not have escalated into open conflict but simmer beneath the surface. These could be racial tensions, class struggles, or disputes over resources.

• Alliances and Cabals: Detail the alliances that form in response to common threats or shared goals. The Fellowship of the Ring is an alliance of diverse races united against a common enemy. The Empire is a response to chaos.

• Natural or Man-Made Catastrophes: Include events like natural disasters, plagues, or the fallout from technological hubris. The destruction of Pompeii or the catastrophic events in "The Road" by Cormac McCarthy can inspire scenarios that test the resilience of your world's inhabitants.

Social Class and Ethnicity:

• Roles of Gender and Age: Examine how gender and age affect an individual's status, responsibilities, and rights in your world. In "The Handmaid's Tale," gender roles are strictly enforced, deeply affecting the lives of characters.

• Social Classes: Outline the hierarchical structure of your society. Are there nobles and commoners, like in "Game of Thrones," where birthright plays a significant role in determining one's place in society?

• Ethnicity and Race: Define the various ethnic groups and races within your world and their relationships with each other. "Star Trek" often explores themes of racial diversity and prejudice through its multi-species cast.

• Political Structures: Describe the form of governance and political entities, from democracies to monarchies or authoritarian regimes. The political intrigue in "Dune" is driven by the complex interactions between different planetary houses and the imperial throne.

• National Divisions: If your world comprises multiple nations or territories, explain the divisions and the reasons behind them. Historical disputes, cultural differences, or geographical barriers can all play a role.

III. Applying the SCHEMATICS Framework to Your Stories and Campaigns

With a detailed understanding of the framework components, the next step is integrating this information into your projects. Whether you're crafting a narrative for a novel, developing a comic book series, or designing a role-playing game campaign, this framework can guide you in creating a world that supports your story and profoundly engages your audience. Here's how to apply the framework effectively:

Start with Broad Strokes

• Begin by sketching the broad outlines of your world using the SCHEMATICS framework. Don't worry about filling in every detail at this stage. Establish the scope and scale, decide on the basic rules of magic or technology, and sketch out the major historical events. Then, you have a solid foundation to build upon and help you identify areas for further thought. Secret Tip: Draw a map. Then you’ll understand the boundaries of your story.

Incremental Revelation

• Resist the urge to reveal everything about your world at once. Instead, introduce elements of the world as they become relevant to the story or campaign. This approach mirrors how we gradually experience the real world and how individual interests and interactions are guided by curiosity. It keeps the audience curious and engaged, encouraging them to explore your world alongside your characters.

Interconnectivity

• Remember that the components are interconnected. A region's culture is formed in tandem with its history, which is also shaped by the environment and available technologies or magic. By considering these connections, you can create a world that feels organic and alive, where every detail has its place and reason.

Focus on Conflict and Growth

• Use the conflicts and catastrophes component as a driving force in your storytelling or campaign design. Conflict propels the plot and prompts character development and world evolution. Consider how societal tensions, environmental catastrophes, or magical dilemmas can catalyze your story, pushing characters to make difficult choices and grow. Does our story begin in the aftermath of a tsunami? Consider these forces, they’re powerful stuff.

Personalize to Characters

• Make the world personal for your characters. Use their backgrounds, goals, and fears to explore different aspects. A character's personal history can reveal insights into your world's broader history and lore. At the same time, their profession or skills can shed light on the prevailing technologies, magic, or cultural practices. This approach ensures that worldbuilding serves the story, enriching the narrative rather than overwhelming it.

Engage Through Interaction

• For game masters and interactive storytellers, encourage your players to engage and explore. Design quests, challenges, or storylines that require them to interact with the political systems, research ancient lore, or navigate the complexities of trade and economics. This active engagement makes the world more memorable and meaningful to your audience.

Reflect and Revise

• As your story or campaign progresses, periodically reflect on the world you've created. The framework is not just a tool for initial worldbuilding but also for ongoing development. As your characters explore new territories, encounter new cultures, or face new challenges, consider how these experiences might expand or deepen your understanding of the world. Be open to revising and evolving your world as the narrative unfolds.

Balancing Worldbuilding with Plot and Character Development

The SCHEMATICS framework provides a robust foundation for worldbuilding, enabling creators to design rich, immersive environments that captivate their audience's imagination. However, it's crucial to remember that the heart of any story lies in its characters and their journeys. An intricately designed world, while fascinating, should never overshadow the dramatic events or the characters that drive it. While it's essential for you, the creator, to understand the nuances of your world, the same is not true for the audience. Allow some elements to remain in the background or hidden altogether, enriching the narrative without being explicit. This approach allows you to control the story's pace and leaves room for audience imagination and engagement.

This framework is a tool I use to reign in my chaotic imagination. But I never lose sight of my characters, with their flaws, struggles, and triumphs. They are the spark at the heart of my story. Keep the focus on the characters and the plot. Then use the world as the anvil you hammer them against. Do it and your story might find an audience. Do it well and they might come back for more. 

Drop me a line if you think I’ve missed something, I relish such feedback.

Charles Merritt Houghton

15 February 2024