Locks & Keys
Locks and keys act in tandem to secure doors, cages, and chests. They can symbolize knowledge and secrets, power and control, or overcoming obstacles. They are important elements in fictional worlds and are used to enter forbidden locations, unlock new areas to explore, open treasure chests, or release prisoners from the darkest of dungeon cells. They may be a way to access a hidden passage or hidden room, and in fantasy worlds they may be the only way to open a portal. Finding keys, or picking locks, are important facets of game worlds.
| Synonyms: (locks): bolts, latches; (keys): latchkeys, passkeys |
| Example Mythonyms: an Iron Key, the Clockwork Lock, the Key of Dreams |
Designing Fictional Locks and Keys
Overview
The aesthetic of keys can be an important consideration. Fictional keys may match their corresponding lock or door in color or style. A key in the shape of a skeleton, for example, may fit a keyhole in the shape of a skull or a golden key may open a golden door. This correspondence between key, lock, and door may be particularly important in game-worlds, where multiple locks and multiple keys may be present simultaneously.
In fictional worlds keys may be any object. Pendants, rings, even people may act as keys.
A Lock is Picked; A Trap Is Sprung!
Locks are often picked (usually by thieves or rogues), bypassing the need for a key. Picking locks is frequently of narrative importance, allowing entrance into forbidden places, access to guarded treasures, or escape from a locked cell. Lockpicking is also often featured as a game skill. However, those picking locks must be wary, as fictional locks may have hidden traps. Trying to force open the lock without the proper key or making a single subtle mistake while picking it may result in dire consequences.
Locks Without Keys
Fictional locks may require some other mechanism besides a key in order to be unlocked. Locks that open once a puzzle is solved is a common occurrence in game worlds. Locks that open only during a full moon, after the passing of 100 years, or after a blood sacrifice has been made are other examples of locks that function without typical ‘keys.’
