The influences that Norton acknowledges — Beowulf and books on folklore, legends, archaeology, anthropology, and the occult — are evident in most of her science fiction works. Also, one cannot be unmindful of the material Norton culled through her extensive reading of history. The times when people believed in witches, fairies, elves and trolls are significant to the substance of her writing. One critic contends that Norton is "re-enchanting" readers with her creations, and that her literary precedents are folk tales and legends as they were told around campfires by traveling storytellers.

The influence of specific legends and works may be seen, as well, in some of Norton's writing. For instance, the story of the Roman Emperor who ordered a legion to march to the end of the earth is a partial model for her Star Rangers. Warlock of the Witch World (1967) is strongly influenced by...