Four Useful Lies About Writing
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Writing Speaking -> subcategory Writing.
Four Enlightening Lies About Writing
Summary:
While many writing experts adhere to a favored plot structure, it's vital to remember that these models are just that?"models. They aren't the true essence of storytelling. Mistaking a simplified structure for eternal truth can lead writers astray. It's more beneficial to explore multiple frameworks, understand their strengths and weaknesses, and grasp the deeper truths they aim to convey.Article:
Most writing experts have a preferred way of viewing plot structures, sticking to them throughout their careers. While this is understandable, it's crucial to recognize that these methods are merely models?"they don't capture the true essence of storytelling.
The issue arises when writers, both new and seasoned, confuse these simplified structures for eternal truths. It's wiser to explore a variety of frameworks, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and seek the underlying truths they attempt to reveal.
Storytelling's true essence transcends any one structure. Yet, each framework guides us toward a metaphorical mountain that storytellers have been striving to climb since time immemorial. As long as we don't confuse the model for the ultimate goal, these structures can be incredibly useful.
The simplest yet helpful story model is: Beginning, Middle, and End. However, like a piece of string, this is quite basic. A more nuanced approach is: Objective, Obstacle, Outcome. Here, a character desires something, faces obstacles, and attempts various strategies, leading to a climax.
An even more refined model is: Situation, Character, Objective, Opponent, Disaster. Consider the classic James Bond film Goldfinger:
- Situation: Gold smuggling from England in large quantities.
- Character: Secret Agent 007, James Bond.
- Objective: Discover the smuggling method.
- Opponent: Auric Goldfinger, an industrialist billionaire.
- Disaster: Goldfinger plans to destroy Fort Knox with an atom bomb!
This model clarifies essential story elements: the hero's goal, opposing forces, and potential internal and external motivations. Such a dynamic framework almost writes itself!
Perhaps the most comprehensive structure is the Hero's Journey, popularized by Joseph Campbell. It's been explored worldwide and can be outlined as follows:
1. Hero Confronted With a Challenge.
2. Hero Rejects the Challenge.
3. Hero Accepts the Challenge.
4. Road of Trials.
5. Meeting Allies and Gaining Powers.
6. Confront Evil and Defeat.
7. Dark Night of the Soul.
8. Leap of Faith.
9. Confront Evil and Victory.
10. Student Becomes the Teacher.
This pattern reflects the trials, fears, and triumphs of human life. Its universal resonance makes it invaluable for writers, new and experienced alike. By organizing work within this structure, writers create stories that resonate globally. The quality of the story, however, depends on the skill and creativity brought to it?"the unquantifiable essence of art.
There are countless other patterns, and any ambitious writer should consider examining several side by side. None are absolute truths, but each offers valuable guidance toward the storytelling summit.
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