Rise of the Guardians is coming out on November 21st. It seems like a cool premise. Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny, and others (I assume) team up to protect the innocence of children. They are the guardians of children.
A while ago, I read somewhere that an agent had noticed a lot of guardians in submissions. That many of her submissions contained either a race of guardians or a self-described group of guardians. Somehow, the concept has become a trend.
Since then, I've noticed the trend as well.
It's an interesting idea. Whether the guardians are benevolent or just think they are, a race or population that sets itself above others is an interesting concept to explore, especially in speculative fiction.
But I think the word is overused.
So, my question for today: What would be a good way to describe such a group without using the word "guardian"? Or should the concept be retired?
Thursday, November 8, 2012
4 comments:
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I don't see a problem with using the word "guardian." Some people think that "elf" is overused in fantasy. So this has faced the same issues that "guardian" does now. George R.R. Martin didn't use the word "elf." Instead, he chose "children of the forest." But make no mistake, they are "elves."
ReplyDeleteSee...a rose by any other name smells as sweet. And if you are going to use the concept, then just call a spade a spade. People are not that stupid. So, I guess what I'm saying is, don't replace the word. Embrace it if you are going to use it. And if someone dings you for it...oh well. Not everyone will. And those are the people you are writing for anyway.
I agree with Michael. Trying to figure out a guardian name that isn't guardians might make it seem like you're trying too hard.
ReplyDeleteAh, now I'm going to notice the trend. ;) I don't really know if they have any other names. . . Protectors, maybe? But either way, they're guardians.
ReplyDeleteThey could be called Keepers, or Caretakers, altho both have a somewhat ominous feel, imo.
ReplyDelete