Exploring Themes of Identity and Self-Discovery in YA Fantasy

Themes in YA literature aren’t new. Authors have used themes to craft their stories, no matter the genre. In YA literature, identity and self-discovery are themes we see time and again.

Let’s take a look at these themes and how their place in YA fantasy.

Embracing Magical Metaphors

In YA fantasy, magic serves as more than just a tool for spell-casting—it becomes a metaphor for personal growth and self-discovery. Think of the protagonist who discovers their magical abilities and must navigate the challenges of harnessing them. These magical elements mirror the internal struggles and transformations that young readers face in their own journeys of self-discovery.

By embracing these metaphors, authors can address topics that might be hard to talk about in real-life. Having your character learn to accept their magic, that’s a part of them, despite its difficulties is just one of many ways to examine the theme of self-discovery and acceptance.

Challenging Stereotypes and Conventional Expectations

One of the powers of YA fantasy is the ability to break free from stereotypes and challenge conventional expectations. By creating diverse and multidimensional characters, authors open up a world of possibilities for exploring identity in all its facets. No longer bound by traditional molds, protagonists can defy societal norms and embark on journeys of self-discovery that inspire readers to do the same.

Quests of Self-Discovery

The quest is a narrative structure that has long been associated with heroism and self-discovery. In YA fantasy, quests become the perfect vehicle for exploring identity. The physical journey mirrors the internal transformation that the protagonist undergoes, guiding readers through a captivating adventure of self-discovery.

In Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan, Percy embarks on a quest to save the world and discovers his true identity as a demigod along the way. Through his trials and challenges, readers witness not only the development of his character but also the exploration of his own identity and place in the world.

Magical Artifacts and Symbolism

In the vast landscapes of YA fantasy, magical artifacts and symbolism become powerful tools for exploring identity. Objects and symbols can represent personal growth, heritage, or inner struggles. They act as tangible reminders of the protagonist’s journey, inviting readers to reflect upon their own paths of self-discovery.

Subverting Prophecies and Chosen Ones

In YA fantasy, prophecies and the trope of the chosen one have long been familiar elements. However, authors have the power to subvert these conventions and empower their characters to forge their own paths. By challenging the notion of predetermined destinies, they inspire readers to take control of their own identities and futures.

In The Cruel Prince by Holly Black, Jude Duarte, a mortal girl in the realm of faeries, defies the prophecy that foretells her doom. Instead of passively accepting her fate, she seizes opportunities and shapes her own destiny. This subversion of the chosen one trope encourages readers to question societal expectations and become the authors of their own stories.

Overcoming Inner Demons and Fears

The luxury of writing fantasy is that you can use external dangers to mirror inner demons. It’s not uncommon that a protagonist’s external battles are a reflection of their internal struggles.

One tool to use in examining the theme of identity in fantasy to use the literal monsters (or antagonists in general) a character is confronting to parallel their fears and doubts. Is your character afraid of their own power? Make them have to use their power to defeat the antagonist. Does your character have a rocky relationship with their mom? That’s a great time to make it necessary for their mom to work with them to save the town.

Embracing Themes

In this fantastical journey, we’ve explored out-of-the-box ideas for exploring themes of identity and self-discovery in YA fantasy. By embracing magical metaphors, challenging stereotypes, incorporating quests of self-discovery, creating unconventional heroes and heroines, utilizing magical artifacts and symbolism, subverting prophecies, exploring hybrid identities, balancing internal and external battles, and promoting individuality and acceptance, authors can create captivating narratives that resonate with young readers.

A fantasy offers a unique canvas for young minds to explore their own identities and discover the power within themselves. By immersing readers in worlds of magic and wonder, authors invite them on journeys of self-discovery, reminding them that their identities are complex, beautiful, and worth celebrating.

So, dear authors, as you embark on your own writing quests, remember the transformative power of identity and self-discovery. Think beyond conventions, embrace the magic within your stories, and create narratives that inspire and empower young readers.

Let’s journey into the realms of YA fantasy and unleash the power of thematic writing, one page at a time.