When someone exhibits a truly extensive imagination, this can be truly wondrous to behold. Especially for those of us who are not particularly creative or imaginative ourselves, seeing someone who can create an entire world or an entire cast of characters from nothing is always impressive.
Of course, you can’t really rate imagination as being ‘good’ or ‘bad’. Every kind of creation and exploration is unique and different in its own way. In fact, the difference between invention and imagination is probably that the latter doesn’t have to solve a problem or serve a purpose.
That said, when worlds seem to completely abandon all normal points of reference, or when they’re so intricately detailed that they almost seem real, then we might be particularly blown away by the mental prowess that was necessary to bring them into being.
Let’s take a look at some of the most imaginative and creative worlds and narratives from fiction and media.
Lord of the Rings
There’s no denying that J.R.R. Tolkien’s masterpiece Lord of the Rings is a true tour-de-force when it comes to ‘world building’. Few fantasy realms have been more thoroughly realized and fleshed out. Middle Earth has its own politics, its own languages, its own landmarks, and more. And the world has outlived its creator to take on a life of its own as a result.
DMC: Devil May Cry
For a more modern example of creative world building, take a look at the Xbox 360 and PS3 game ‘DMC: Devil May Cry’. This game is set partially in Limbo, with levels that completely defy expectations and all logic. One has you entering the reflection of a city in a lake, in order to traverse a completely upside-down world. This is a real marriage of technology and vision.
Cloud Atlas
Cloud Atlas, by David Mitchell, is a book that spans cultures, generations, and more to show how lives that are centuries apart can be interwoven with parallel themes and events. Mitchell draws on history for parts of the book, while envisioning a dystopian future for others. It’s truly breathtaking in scope, and the 2012 film captures it very ably.
Here’s the official trailer. Tom Hanks and Halle Berry lead magnificent cast.
If you enjoy seeing imaginary worlds, creatures, and landscapes, then be sure to check out ‘World Builders’ and ‘Dreamscapes’ on Reddit. Both of these communities take great pleasure in inventing worlds, creatures, and stories, and there are some amazing examples on display.
