Magical Realism or Fantasy? Understanding the Difference
Fantasy subgenres can get confusing. Especially when publishers erroneously throw terms around like they’re interchangeable. Contemporary fantasy, low fantasy, and magical realism often get mixed up even though there are distinct differences between each.
Of the three, I think magical realism gets misused the most, but let’s define each.
Contemporary Fantasy
Contemporary fantasy refers to fantasy set in the modern world where magic exists alongside everyday life. These are often books where characters discover secret magical societies or uncover hidden powers.
In contemporary fantasy, magic usually has rules and limitations. Magic users understand how it works, and as long as they follow the rules, the magic behaves predictably. Contemporary fantasy often explores how magic collides with modern problems like paying rent, navigating complicated relationships, or holding down a job.
Examples:
- The Magicians by Lev Grossman
- The Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling
- The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher
Side note: While urban fantasy is a type of contemporary fantasy (like The Dresden Files), not all contemporary fantasy is urban fantasy.
Low Fantasy
Low fantasy also brings magic into the real world, but here, the magic often feels more like an intrusion than a gift. The magic isn’t necessarily wondrous. Instead, it can unsettle or disrupt the protagonist’s life.
In low fantasy, magic is often unpredictable or unreliable. Sometimes, it’s downright dangerous. Worse, magic can create more problems than it solves. Low fantasy usually has a grittier, more grounded feel than contemporary fantasy. It focuses on how magic complicates life rather than making it easier.
Examples:
- Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke
- An Indian in the Cupboard by Lynne Reid Banks
Magical Realism
Magical realism is where things get tricky. True magical realism treats magical events as completely ordinary. The characters don’t question the magic. It’s just part of life.
Even when the magic is unpredictable, the characters treat it as normal. These stories rarely define how the magic works. Instead, the stories focus on emotional and cultural truths. In magical realism, the magic serves as a metaphor rather than a plot driver.
Examples:
- One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez
- Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel
Why Do These Labels Matter?
Many books that are actually low or contemporary fantasy get mislabeled as magical realism for marketing purposes. Since magical realism carries more literary weight, publishers sometimes slap that label on low or contemporary fantasy to appeal to a broader or more “serious” audience.
While fantasy subgenres can overlap, they each carry distinct traits that shape reader expectations and story execution. Understanding these distinctions isn’t just about nitpicking. They help readers find the kinds of stories they’re looking for.
A novel labeled magical realism that’s slow and symbolic might disappoint if you love the grounded, surprising feel of low fantasy. Likewise, if you crave the sense of wonder in contemporary fantasy, a dream-like magical realism novel might not hit the spot.
For writers, understanding the differences between these labels can help you pitch your work to the right audience and set the right expectations.
Have you noticed the label of magical realism getting slapped on books where it doesn’t belong? Let’s discuss!
The header photo is a composite image. Base image by Buddha Elemental 3D on Unsplash