 Martin experienced some harsh winters when living in Dubuque a few years in the 1970s, and suspects these winters had an influence on his writing; "I think a lot of the stuff in "A Game of Thrones", the snow and ice and freezing, comes from my memories of Dubuque".The medieval setting has been the traditional background for epic fantasy.However, where historical fiction leaves versed readers knowing the historical outcome, original characters may increase suspense and empathy for the readers.