This is Story Fanatic, a collection of articles covering story structure and analysis for
creative writers. Published weekly.
The driving force behind all great stories. But how exactly does one define conflict in a way that helps Authors? Is it simply the presence of two opposing forces? Or could it be that this inequity is something more complex, something that can't be explained in one simple sentence? This series of articles takes on these questions and dives down into the genesis of tension and the unnamed inequity deep at the heart of every great story.
One cannot escape the concept of the Hero when it comes to crafting a story. The problem is nine times out of ten the term is used incorrectly for a wide range of appreciations within the area of story structure. While the mythical journeys that accompany their introduction into the conversation are legendary, so too is the vast array of confusion and disagreement over what actually makes up a classic "hero". These series of articles address that issue and offer up a solid consistent definition for the term.
A series of articles covering the very meaningful connection between the order in which things happen and the shifts in dramatic focus they force. More than simply "what happens next" or a "progressive series of complications", the plot of a complete story steers the character and thematic elements within towards the Author's intended message. To understand plot is to understand that Plot Points are much more than page markers, they are essential in conveying the purpose of a story.
This series focuses on the four primary concepts that shape and form an effective and meaningful Main Character. Screenplays that lack that special connection with an audience are often the victims of a poorly realized central character. The following articles explain how to structure a story with a dynamic and solid Main Character.
A collection of articles on the eight basic character archetypes found in complete stories. While a quick read for the audience, these character types can often come off bland and uninteresting. The final article explains techniques for breaking out of the archetype into the realm of ultimate creativity.
The purpose of every great story should be to present an audience with something meaningful, some greater reason for the events that unfold. With that in mind, the key to solid story structure is making sure that every moment leads to an ending that supports this greater purpose. The articles in this series outline the different ways a screenwriter can successfully fulfill this responsibility.