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 Your Story and their Emotional Journey."

This video, which can be viewed here, offers valuable guidance on crafting compelling narratives and has inspired us to explore its key takeaways in detail.

Join us as we unravel the secrets behind effective storytelling and learn how to create stories that resonate with both authors and readers.

The Fish Out of Water Story Framework

One of the central themes explored in the video is the concept of the "fish out of water" story framework. This framework suggests that every story involves taking a character out of their comfort zone and subjecting them to new experiences.

Whether it's a physical, spiritual, or metaphorical journey, this framework challenges authors to identify who the "fish" is and what the "water" represents in their story.

Understanding this dynamic is crucial for establishing the foundation of any narrative.

Pushing Characters to the Limits

The video stresses the importance of making characters suffer to drive meaningful change and excitement in a story.

It encourages authors not to shy away from pushing their characters into the "panic zone," where they confront their limits.

This zone is where profound character transformation occurs, shaping them from the beginning of the story to its conclusion.

The Role of Authors and Readers

While the protagonist's journey is vital, the video highlights two often overlooked aspects: the author's transformation and the reader's emotional journey.

It asserts that authors are changed through the process of crafting a story and asks why they feel compelled to tell that particular tale.

Additionally, the video underscores that storytelling should also focus on the reader, aiming to evoke emotions and potentially transform them as individuals.

Character Development and Emotional Arcs

Delving deeper into the novel planning tool, the video explores character development.

It distinguishes between character wants and needs, emphasizing how these desires directly impact the plot.

The tool encourages authors to dissect these aspects further, including differentiating inherent character wishes from those created by the story's inciting incident.

Revelation Scenes and Emotional Arcs

Another critical component discussed is the concept of revelation scenes. These are pivotal moments where characters either recognize their inner flaws or where readers uncover essential truths. The video proposes that such scenes should be strategically placed in a story's structure, such as the midpoint or the end of act two, to maximize their impact on character development and reader engagement.

The Reader's Emotional Journey

The video advocates for a more reader-centric approach by focusing on the emotional journey of those experiencing the story. It suggests a rough emotional trajectory that begins with curiosity and progressively leads to engagement, wonder, and even grief. This emotional rollercoaster allows readers to connect deeply with the narrative and its characters.

Story Development

In conclusion, the video "Story Development: The Three Most Important People in Your Story and their Emotional Journey" offers a wealth of insights into the art of storytelling.

By understanding the fish out of water framework, pushing characters to their limits, and considering the author's and reader's transformations, authors can create narratives that resonate deeply.

The video's exploration of character development, revelation scenes, and the reader's emotional journey provides valuable tools for crafting compelling stories that leave a lasting impact.

We highly recommend watching the original video here to fully grasp the concepts discussed in this blog post. As you embark on your storytelling journey, remember the importance of these key elements in crafting unforgettable narratives. Happy writing!