Why Mythology Keeps Calling Me Back
If you’ve read any of my work, you’ve probably noticed a pattern.
I have a hard time staying away from fantasy. Whether it’s angels, demons, djinn, or folklore from distant cultures, I find myself returning to these stories again and again because they’re timeless.
Long before there were novels, movies, or streaming services, there were stories. People gathered around fires, in temples, in village squares, and in family homes to tell tales about heroes, monsters, gods, spirits, and the mysteries of the world around them. These stories helped explain the unknown. They preserved history. They passed wisdom from one generation to the next.
For my family personally, there’s a lore that is connected with my dad. My dad talked about it and so did all my uncles (his brothers) and my aunts (wives). And when they spoke of it, there was belief in the story. A sense of wonder and fascination… a little fear perhaps.
And I don’t think my family is unique in this. Other families have stories.
My bff and author extraordinaire (Nancy Brooks) would tell you that every culture has its own legends, and when you look closely, you begin to notice familiar themes. She would challenge you to look deeper. To research. Because she’s certain that you will find that although some details may change, the heart of the story remains the same.
For me and as a fantasy writer, mythology provides an endless source of inspiration. I think this is true for all writers and other worldbuilders (gaming). We use some aspect of a story already in existence — whether it’s current affairs, news, fairy tales, or legends, to create our own original story from it.
For example, how many times have you heard a rendition of Cinderella? Maybe not always a retelling of the fairy tale, but how often do you see the familiar trope of a kind hearted girl, forced into servitude? Lots!
And there’s nothing wrong with it.
When I wrote Oathbreaker, I drew inspiration from Irish mythology and the legends surrounding the Fomorii. In The Final Concord (coming soon), I explored ideas inspired by fallen angels and ancient purpose. My current project, The Last Flame (coming soon), draws from djinn lore and the rich traditions that have traveled across deserts and generations.
But what inspires me most isn’t simply the creatures or supernatural elements. It’s the humanity hidden inside the myths. At their core, these stories are about people. Their fears. Their hopes. Their flaws. Their choices.
What is mythology if not a warning. It reminds us that while the world changes, human nature remains remarkably familiar. Perhaps that’s why these stories continue to endure. We still see ourselves in them. And as long as we continue telling stories, I suspect mythology will keep calling us back.
It certainly keeps calling me.
What myth, legend, or piece of folklore has always fascinated you?
