I am shelving and project involving Contemporary Fantasy because I was finding myself in the midst of, "Paralysis by Analysis"...again. I like brainstorming, but it is only when others contribute that I get back on track.
The question I am paralyzed on is the question of "Secret HistorY". Contemporary Fantasy has to deal with the fantasy in the modern world with a stance that is on the "Secret History Spectrum. This ranges based on how secret the fantasy elements are. Usually, this is decided on by the premise/overall story the author wishes to tell. The only premise-like thing has is Federal Law Enforcement of The Paranormal in my own direction (Whatever that will be).
But I can't even decide on a premise because thinking about the various stages on the spectrum opens up a world of possibilities.
The Secret History Spectrum(Based on level of secrecy):
Top Secret: Always has been and always will be.
"Safe" Stories in children's literature especially fall in this category. Hiding the supernatural is a science and has always been a science. The fantasy world may infact be impossible to expose do to it being protected by the power of gods, being handwaved away because it is not an issue or being a wholly segregated "other world"
Advantages: This stance allows the Supernatural to always surprise people. The supernatural can exist as it always has.
Disadvantages: The supernatural then becomes a "Gentleman's only club". Only special people can be a part of the supernatural.
Semi-Secret: It's a secret, but it's tough to keep.
Men in Black is like this. The supernatural is a secret and is only risked being exposed when it is a convenient plot device. It creates a sense of urgency whenever something goes bump because the MCs have to worry not about if people will catch on, but when.
Advantages: It is more realistic.
Disadvantages: It is deceptive because it strings the reader along by making them think the SUupernatural world will be exposed, but ultimately never is for one reason or another.
Secret No More: It was a Secret, but now people know
This has become popular in recent years. The supernatural "Coming out of the coffin" is fascinating because it is about people being uncomfortable.
Advantages: It allows you do hit close to home and write about a Paradigm shift, a defining moment in history.
Disadvantages: It can really hit the nail on the head as to the themes of the world. Aids, LGBT rights, etc are obviously what it is about. A reader takes one look at it and says "I get it...." Being a blood-sucking vampire that lives for ever isn't exactly the same as admitting your sexual orientation.
Never Secret: Self-explantatory
This makes it more like alternative history. If the supernatural existed and was never secret, how would life be different?
Advantages: It allows for some weird territory. It means no handwaving and no need to worry about conspiracies.
Disadvantages: It means that every square inch of the landscape has what is normally fantastic in it in some way, shape or form unless it is a place living under a rock.
I don't know where this thread will go or what I'm trying to get out of it, but it should lead to something.