STORYTELLING BLOG

Let's tell some tall tales.

STORYTELLERS UNITE

Get monthly inspo, story prompts, frameworks, and more.

3 min read

Sidekicks: Add a Kick of Flavor to Your Main Character’s Journey

The significance of a well-crafted sidekick in storytelling cannot be overstated. These characters, whether the best friend, sassy co-worker, or fellow thief on the crew, hold the power to elevate a narrative, aiding protagonists through their...

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Impressionist oil painting of woman in wide-brimmed hat.

3 min read

What It Takes to Craft a Powerful Main Character

The role of the main characters can make or break a narrative's success. Breathing life into these characters can be fraught with doubts—are they...

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Oil painting of path through the woods.

3 min read

The Impact of a Book Introduction (And Why You Should Consider One)

Far beyond a mere formality, the introduction to a book can shape a reader's experience, setting the stage for the following narrative. A...

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Oil painting image of woman dancing.

2 min read

Unlock the Essence of a Page Turner: The Significance of Rising Action

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldHave you found yourself wondering what the secret is to captivating storytelling? I’ll clue you in: the rising...

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writer mastering exposition in story

2 min read

Mastering Exposition in Story

Have you ever been told that your story felt bogged down with too much information? Or perhaps you've encountered a fantasy novel where the first...

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climax in a story

3 min read

Crafting an Unforgettable Climax in Your Story

Have you ever noticed that when you reach the three-quarter mark of a book, putting it down becomes nearly impossible?

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fight scenes

2 min read

Tips to Write Fight Scenes

Whether you're writing a thrilling action-packed novel or a fantasy epic, the ability to create engaging fights is a valuable asset. In this article,...

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meaning in stories

3 min read

Exploring the Essence of Meaning in Stories

What exactly does meaning entail in the realm of storytelling? When can a narrative be deemed meaningful?

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painting worlds

2 min read

Painting Vivid Worlds: Using All 5 Senses to Craft Immersive Settings

As a writer, transporting readers to fantastical realms or gritty cityscapes begins with vivid scene-setting. Rather than dull, generic backdrops,...

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dialogue

2 min read

Dialogue in Fiction

Have you ever been engrossed in a captivating story only to be let down by lackluster dialogue? Perhaps the characters all seemed to sound the same,...

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crucible

1 min read

Navigating The Crucible of Transformation

Within the intricate tapestry of stories, characters encounter a multitude of obstacles. These hurdles come in diverse forms and intensity levels,...

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exposition

2 min read

Exposition in Storytelling: Balancing Backstory and Engagement

What exactly is exposition in storytelling, and how can you incorporate backstory while keeping your readers captivated?

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internal conflict

3 min read

Internal Conflict: The Catalyst for Transformation

An internal problem is the crucible for change, diving deep into a character's essence far beyond the surface motivations that drive external...

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scene structure

6 min read

How to Craft an Effective Scene Structure

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the daunting task of writing a book? Fear not, for we have a valuable guide to help you break it down into...

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moral dilemma

5 min read

How to Build Tension in a Story: Crafting the Moral Dilemma

How can you ensure that readers genuinely care about your plot and characters? How do you create the tension that keeps pages turning, leaving your...

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antagonist

2 min read

Embracing Your Antagonist: The Heart of a Documentary

Crafting a compelling story in documentary filmmaking or fiction is akin to constructing a delicate and intricate mechanism.

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theme versus agenda

1 min read

Discovering the Essence of Your Story: Theme vs. Agenda

Understanding the core of your story is a crucial endeavor that delves deep into the heart of human nature and our shared civilization.

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pacing novel

2 min read

Crafting the Pace of Your Novel: Practical Strategies

Whether you're penning a novel, a short story, or even diving into a screenplay or musical, mastering the tempo of your narrative is paramount....

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dialogue

1 min read

Crafting Dialogue in Stories: A Deeper Understanding

Dialogue breathes life into stories, yet it significantly diverges from real spoken language. While it imparts vital information essential for...

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narrative perspective

5 min read

Choosing the Right Narrative Perspective

Few elements can swiftly transform a story as much as altering the narrative perspective from which it unfolds.

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character motivation

1 min read

Character Motivation: Wants and Needs

Characters are individuals who want something, and these desires can be categorized into two distinct types: the character's intrinsic wish...

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character agency

3 min read

Character Agency: Why It's Vital in Fiction

The concept of "character agency" in fiction revolves around a character's ability to take action and influence the events within a story. It plays a...

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A child standing on a road, landscape painting style.

2 min read

Navigating Internal Obstacles: The Heart of Character Development

Stories are captivating because characters frequently find themselves confronted with a myriad of challenges.

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A person telling a story, landscape painting style.

2 min read

Building the Ensemble: Crafting Compelling Characters in Stories

Unlocking the Magic of Character Dynamics

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A landscape painting of a wooded path.

2 min read

Exploring the Essence of Relationships in Storytelling

Unraveling the Dynamics of Human Interaction and Their Impact on Narratives

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A man standing in front of a maze. Portrait style.

3 min read

Facing the World: External Obstacles in Storytelling

Storytelling is a complex journey where characters grapple with three fundamental oppositions: character vs. character, character vs. nature, and...

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Woman walking along a train track in a dystopic world.

3 min read

6 Essential Steps to Take an Idea to a Tale

There's this sense of excitement when you start to brainstorm an idea. You’re getting ready to tell a story no one’s ever told! You sit down, have...

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a book unraveling in a landscape style.

3 min read

Unraveling Storylines: Crafting Multifaceted Narratives

The Symphony of Plots and Subplots

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Two faces in a black and white sketch style.

3 min read

Navigating the Dynamics of Opposition

In the world of storytelling, opponents and their various forms give rise to profound conflicts and complications, much like the complexities of SEO....

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A person near a fire, landscape painting style.

2 min read

Improve Your SEO with Classic Storytelling Techniques

At first glance, storytelling techniques may seem like they don’t belong together. SEO is often associated with using researched keywords and...

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A man standing alone, digital art style.

2 min read

Unlocking the Power of Allies: Why Heroes Never Stand Alone

In storytelling, alliances and cooperation play a pivotal role in shaping the hero's journey. Just as in the art of search engine optimization (SEO),...

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Young woman being followed by two people in a Victorian-era impressionistic art style.

2 min read

Explore the Enigmatic: Craft an Antihero Readers Will Embrace

Have you ever found yourself rooting for a character who seems to revel in their own flaws and questionable choices? Welcome to the world of...

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classic chinese literature

3 min read

Classic Chinese Literature: A Must-Read List

Chinese literature is a treasure trove of beautifully crafted stories and tomes. Especially if you are a western-born writer, it's imperative to read...

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chinese stories

4 min read

Exploring Storytelling Across Cultures

Are the principles of storytelling really universal across cultures? When you examine your bookshelf, you're likely to find a mix of European and...

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fish out of water

2 min read

The Three Most Important People in Your Story

In today's blog post, we're diving deep into the insights shared in a captivating video titled "Story Development: The Three Most Important People in...

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books on writing

2 min read

Bibliography: Books on Writing

The best writers are readers - that is undeniable.

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writing slow

2 min read

Writing Slow

In our current era, speed is often celebrated above all else. The internet's emergence has accelerated our lives, turning processes that once took...

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characters versus an individual

3 min read

Characters vs. Individuals: The Essence of Fictional Roles

In the world of storytelling, characters take center stage. Whether they're robots, rabbits, or humans, stories are fundamentally about people—or...

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character secrets

2 min read

Unveiling Character Secrets: What Lies Beyond the Surface

Characters in stories often harbor secrets, hidden facets of their lives or knowledge that can shape the narrative in profound ways.

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supporting character

1 min read

Crafting Beloved Supporting Characters

Are you in the midst of writing a novel and finding that while your main character is fully fleshed out, your supporting characters still need some...

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novel word count

3 min read

Word Counts for Different Novel Genres

Determining the ideal word count for your novel is a crucial aspect of writing. While your plot, characters, and premise are vital, the question of...

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story

2 min read

Commencement and Catalyst: Initiating a Captivating Story

Out of all the narrative segments, the beginning demands the utmost attention of the audience or reader.

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fire middle phase narrative

3 min read

Navigating the Core of the Narrative: Mastering the Middle Phase

A well-crafted story possesses distinct components—beginning, middle, and end. However, the 'middle bit' often poses a challenge, potentially leading...

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cause and effect victorian woman

2 min read

Cause and Effect and the Cooperative Principle in Storytelling

The essence of storytelling often revolves around problem-solving, with problems serving as the heartbeat of narratives.

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looking glass point of view

2 min read

Navigating Perspectives: The Art of Point of View in Storytelling

Decisions about Point of View (PoV) stand among the most crucial choices authors must make in storytelling. However, the term "Point of View"...

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author impressionism style

2 min read

The Significance of Character Perceptions in Storytelling

The level of awareness a character possesses about their surroundings can hold significant dramatic importance. For instance, a character adept at...

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man and a bear

2 min read

Navigating Dysfunction and Deviance Through Diagnosis: From Elon Musk to Paddington Bear

The importance of diagnosis as a narrative tool is evident in how it helps us make sense of dysfunction and deviance, whether in the realm of complex...

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time travel

3 min read

Interactive Classics: Gamifying Classic Stories for a Modern Audience

The fusion of traditional narratives with interactive mediums has given rise to a new era of engagement.

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girl on a lute

2 min read

Exploring Timeless Storytelling Techniques

Storytelling is a universal art that has captivated audiences across cultures and generations for centuries.

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man writing a letter impressionism style

2 min read

Epistolary Narratives: Stories Through Letters, Emails, and Diaries

Epistolary narratives, a storytelling technique that unfolds through the exchange of letters, emails, diaries, or other written forms, offer a unique...

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spiders web impressionism style

4 min read

Intertextuality as a Tool: References, Allusions, and More

In the intricate tapestry of literature, intertextuality emerges as a powerful tool that allows writers to create connections, enrich narratives, and...

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two women impressionism style

3 min read

Narrative Nonlinearities: Chronological Disruption in Storytelling

Storytelling has always been a way to transport readers into different worlds, allowing them to experience the lives of characters and explore...

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woman breaking through a wall impressionism style

3 min read

Metafiction and Breaking the Fourth Wall

Metafiction, a literary device that transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling, offers readers a unique and thought-provoking experience....

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man crying impressionism style

5 min read

The Psychology of Reader Empathy

Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, is a powerful human trait that transcends cultural boundaries. In the realm of...

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woodland creatures impressionism style

2 min read

Writing Stories from the Perspective of Misunderstood Animals

Stories have the power to transcend boundaries, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the lives of characters from different worlds. One captivating...

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a boat on the water at sunset

4 min read

The Role of Themes in Fiction: Adding Depth and Meaning to Your Stories

Themes are the backbone of storytelling, providing depth and meaning that resonate with readers on a profound level. In literature, themes explore...

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count dracula impressionist style

2 min read

Creating Memorable Villains: Developing Complex Antagonists

In the world of storytelling, the heroes may shine, but it's the villains who leave a lasting impression on readers and viewers alike.

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a horse racing

3 min read

Pacing and Tension: Keeping Readers Hooked from Start to Finish

As a professional writer, one of the most crucial skills you can develop is the ability to keep your readers engaged and enthralled throughout your...

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two people in a boat impressionism style

2 min read

The Impact of Setting: How to Create Memorable and Atmospheric Locations

Setting plays a pivotal role in storytelling, influencing a narrative's mood, tone, and overall impact.

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group of people staring at an impressionist painting

3 min read

Building Relatable Characters: The Art of Writing People, Not Stereotypes

As storytellers, our characters are the heart and soul of our narratives.

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woman reading a book impressionist style

2 min read

Captivating Openings: Tips for Crafting Intriguing First Lines in Your Stories

In storytelling, the first line holds unparalleled power. It is the gateway that entices readers to step into the world you have crafted and sets the...

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group of warriors impressionism style

2 min read

HISTORICAL CHARACTERS FOR STORYTELLING INSPIRATION

History is replete with extraordinary individuals whose contributions and stories have been overshadowed by time. Though often overlooked, these...

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Life: The Ultimate Storytelling Reference Point

2 min read

Life: The Ultimate Storytelling Reference Point

Our life is influenced by the stories we tell ourselves and the stories we consume, whether or not we realize it. The way we perceive the world...

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Storytelling: The Art Form That Knows No Bounds

6 min read

Storytelling: The Art Form That Knows No Bounds

As long as there have been people on earth, there have been stories to tell. Humans have used storytelling as a way to educate, entertain, and inform...

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Stories for Different Aged Audiences

5 min read

Stories for Different Aged Audiences

The best and most relatable stories fit the audience. This creates intimacy, a byproduct of familiarity.

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7 Storytelling Skills to Sharpen as a Marketer

4 min read

7 Storytelling Skills to Sharpen as a Marketer

For as long as there has been human life on earth, we’ve been telling stories.

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Storytelling With Songs

3 min read

Storytelling With Songs

Previously, we covered the connection between storytelling and marketing, focusing on how how to tell a story in marketing and why it’s so effective....

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Full Immersion: Capturing Memories

3 min read

Full Immersion: Capturing Memories

Memories are strange things. They can be fleeting. They’re often spotty. They are what we remember, not necessarily the exact series of events that...

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How To Drive Conversions With Storytelling

4 min read

How To Drive Conversions With Storytelling

When it comes to modern marketing, content is king. Consumers are more sensitive than ever to advertising, so brands have to get creative to stand...

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And Then One Day…

2 min read

And Then One Day…

The term storytelling is bandied about under a thinly veiled attempt to make brands seem human. It’s often inaccurately associated with the task of...

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3 Times Storytelling Marketers Established New Cultural Norms to Sell Products

3 min read

3 Times Storytelling Marketers Established New Cultural Norms to Sell Products

We’ve all heard about the power of storytelling in marketing and branding. Time and time again, the brands that come out on top are the ones with...

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What Children's Literature Can Teach Copywriters

4 min read

What Children's Literature Can Teach Copywriters

When was the last time you picked up a children’s book? If you don’t have kids, it’s probably been a while. Even if you do have kids, when was the...

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Storytelling and Marketing

3 min read

Storytelling and Marketing

Most books contain stories - whether they are based on fiction or reality - but not all stories are books. In fact, MOST stories aren’t books that...

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A Farewell to Hemingway’s Rules for Writing

4 min read

A Farewell to Hemingway’s Rules for Writing

It was printed on the wall in brilliant block letters. “What is popular is not always right. What is right is not always popular.” This phrase is...

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Inspiration From Storytelling

2 min read

Inspiration From Storytelling

Learn the key aspects of great storytelling to impart inspiration

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How Storytelling Marketing Works

3 min read

How Storytelling Marketing Works

Once upon a time you bought a pack of gum so someone would kiss you. True? Maybe not that exactly. Maybe you bought a brand of lettuce because you...

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Become a Better Leader with Storytelling

3 min read

Become a Better Leader with Storytelling

Storytelling revolves around conflict, perspective and resolving complicated problems. Incidentally, understanding these concepts is essential for...

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Brand Storytelling: 5 Stories Your Brand Could Use

3 min read

Brand Storytelling: 5 Stories Your Brand Could Use

Storytelling is a powerful tool that can convey information, trigger emotions and inspire action. Successful brands have long used the benefits of...

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Level Up Your Blog With Storytelling

3 min read

Level Up Your Blog With Storytelling

Storytelling is a priceless tool.

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4 Ways to Use Storytelling in Brand Strategy

3 min read

4 Ways to Use Storytelling in Brand Strategy

Stories are powerful, magical things. A good story sticks in the mind, and a great one etches itself into your heart. If that sounds cheesy, it...

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How to Use Narrative Voice in Marketing

3 min read

How to Use Narrative Voice in Marketing

When approaching a new story, one of the very first — and most important — decisions an author must make is that of narrative voice. This determines...

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The Heroine’s Journey: Expanding the Narrative

4 min read

The Heroine’s Journey: Expanding the Narrative

In my previous post, I discussed one of the most popular story templates of all time: The Hero’s Journey. As noted in that discussion, the classic...

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Storytelling: The Hero’s Journey and Why it Resonates

5 min read

Storytelling: The Hero’s Journey and Why it Resonates

I’ve talked about plot archetypes and story structure before, but there’s one narrative framework that warrants its own moment in the spotlight: The...

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How to Use Plot Archetypes in Marketing

4 min read

How to Use Plot Archetypes in Marketing

While story structure provides a general framework for novels and films, getting familiar with the most common plot archetypes in storytelling can...

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Story Structure: How to Write a Compelling Narrative

4 min read

Story Structure: How to Write a Compelling Narrative

Whether you're working on a comedy, drama, cozy mystery or fast-paced thriller, one of the most important components of your story is the structural...

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