This is Fictional Problems, in association with Speculative Fiction Ireland, the podcast where we discuss all things writing. On today's episode, episode 1, part 2, we'll be talking about the relevancy of what's on the page versus the notes not played.

We'll be discussing foreshadowing, making sense of it all, plotting versus pantsing, and we'll tackle an introduction to world building. Join us.

Welcome to Fictional Problems — where two writers, A.R. MacNeillan and Gary J. Martin, dissect the craft of speculative fiction. In Episode 1 Part 1 they explore how character, plot, and worldbuilding interlock; how history and culture shape identities; writing faith and religion authentically; character motivations and moral ambiguity; audience expectations and tropes (hello, vampires); and how small details and omissions invite reader engagement. Join them as they map the decisions that ripple across story worlds and characters.