The Cultural Review

Magic Systems

1 article

An ancient, mystical diagram on parchment in a dimly lit study, representing the complex and rule-bound magic systems found in modern fantasy literature.
Books

Deep World-Building and Magic Systems in Fantasy Books

In Lois McMaster Bujold’s 'Penric and Desdemona' series, sorcerers must kill bed-bugs and fleas to shed chaotic magic, a mundane yet crucial act for avoiding their bodies being cooked by magical heat.

Claire Donovan·July 6, 2026