Fiction Writing Web Page Of The Day: Story Structure: 7 Types All Writers Should Know

 

Story Structure: 7 Types All Writers Should Know

Foreword

In the vast and intricate landscape of storytelling, structure serves as the sturdy backbone that supports and shapes our narratives. The Reedsy blog stands as a beacon for writers, offering invaluable insights and guidance on the art of crafting compelling stories. The guide on story structure is a testament to this commitment, providing a comprehensive roadmap for both novice and seasoned authors alike.

Here, you will discover the essential elements that transform mere ideas into captivating tales. From the classic three-act structure to the intricacies of character arcs and pacing, this guide delves deep into the mechanics of storytelling, illuminating the path to narrative mastery. Each section is thoughtfully curated to empower writers to not only understand the principles of structure but to also experiment and innovate within those frameworks.

As you embark on your writing journey, may this guide inspire you to explore the boundless possibilities of your imagination. Just as a well-constructed narrative can resonate with readers long after the last page is turned, so too can the wisdom contained within these pages elevate your storytelling craft. Embrace the lessons within, and let your unique voice shine through the stories you create.

Olivia Salter

08/24/2024

Fiction Writing Web Page Of The Day:

Story Structure: 7 Types All Writers Should Know

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Writing Quote: Books without knowledge of life are useless. — Ben Jonson

Books Without Knowledge of Life Are Useless

By Olivia Salter

In the realm of fiction writing, the interplay between literature and life is a perennial topic. Ben Jonson’s assertion that “Books without knowledge of life are useless” encapsulates a profound truth—one that resonates with both readers and writers alike. In this article, we’ll delve into the significance of this quote and explore its implications for fiction authors.

The Essence of Life in Fiction

1. Authentic Characters

Characters are the lifeblood of any fictional work. They breathe, feel, and evolve within the narrative. To create compelling characters, writers must draw from their understanding of human nature, emotions, and experiences. Without this knowledge, characters risk becoming mere caricatures—two-dimensional placeholders lacking depth and relatability.

2. Realistic Settings

Settings serve as the backdrop for a story, shaping its atmosphere and influencing character behavior. Whether it’s a bustling city, a quaint village, or an otherworldly realm, a writer’s grasp of life’s nuances informs the authenticity of these settings. Descriptive details, cultural context, and sensory experiences all contribute to a vivid and immersive world.

3. Universal Themes

Fiction explores universal themes—love, loss, identity, ambition, and more. These themes resonate precisely because they mirror our shared human experience. Writers who tap into this collective knowledge infuse their stories with emotional resonance. Conversely, books divorced from life’s realities risk feeling hollow and detached.

The Pitfalls of Ignorance

1. Stereotypes and Clichés

When authors lack firsthand knowledge of life, they may unwittingly rely on stereotypes or tired clichés. These shortcuts undermine originality and perpetuate harmful biases. A well-informed writer, on the other hand, challenges assumptions, portrays diverse perspectives, and breathes authenticity into their work.

2. Emotional Depth

Emotions are the heartbeat of fiction. Writers who understand the complexities of joy, grief, fear, and longing can evoke genuine feelings in readers. Conversely, shallow emotional portrayals stem from a lack of insight into the human condition. As Jonson suggests, such books fall short of their potential impact.

In conclusion, Ben Jonson’s quote serves as a compass for fiction writers—a reminder that literature thrives when it draws from life’s rich tapestry. As authors, we embark on a lifelong journey of observation, empathy, and discovery. By weaving our understanding of life into our narratives, we create books that resonate, enlighten, and endure.

Remember: Books without knowledge of life are not merely useless; they are missed opportunities to touch hearts and minds.

Also see:

• Ben Jonson's Books at Amazon
   

See more writing quotes here.

Do Writers Still Need Websites?

By Olivia Salter

In today’s digital landscape, writers often wonder if having a website is essential. Let’s explore the reasons for and against maintaining an author website.

Reasons You Might Be Tempted to Skip Having a Writer Website:

1. Technical Challenges: If you find website maintenance daunting, consider simpler platforms like Carrd or Squarespace. Basic edits are manageable even if you’re not tech-savvy.

2. Lack of Direct Sales Connection: You may question whether your website directly impacts book sales. While it’s not always straightforward, having an online presence matters.

3. Social Media Engagement: If you enjoy engaging with readers on social media, you might wonder if a website is necessary. However, social media can change, and having a stable website ensures a consistent platform.

4. Writing Elsewhere: If you contribute articles to other platforms (like LinkedIn or Medium), you might think a personal website isn’t crucial.

5. Expense: Some writers view a website as an additional cost in their author business.

6. Overwhelm: New authors may hesitate due to the perceived workload.

Why an Author or Writer Should Still Have a Website:

1. Professionalism: A well-designed website lends credibility. It’s your online business card.

2. Platform Building: A website allows you to engage readers, share your journey, and showcase your work.

3. Control: Unlike social media, you own your website. It’s a stable hub for your content.

4. Discoverability: Readers, agents, and publishers search for authors online. A website helps them find you.

5. Long-Term Benefits: Invest time now for lasting results.

Remember, it’s not just about having a website; it’s about using it strategically. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, a professional-looking website remains a valuable asset.

Also see:

• GreenGeeks Web Hosting: Web Hosting that's fast, secure & eco-friendly.
• Why Writers Need a Website
  
  The Internet is a huge polluter of the environment. Start hosting your website on the world's leading eco-friendly web hosting provider and make a positive impact on the environment!
  

Writing Craft: The Five Tools for Showing

The Five Tools for Showing

 

By Randy Ingermanson 

 

Your job as a novelist is very simple: to create a movie inside your reader’s head.

Not a picture. Not a sound bite. Not a word salad.

A movie. Inside your reader’s head.

Do that, and you win.

When editors tell you to “show, don’t tell,” what they really mean is to create that movie in your reader’s head.

You have five tools for showing that movie. That’s all. Just five. Master those five tools, and you’re far along the road to novelist nirvana. Here they are:

• Action
• Dialogue
• Interior Monologue
• Interior Emotion
• Sensory Description

Action

Action is a person or an animal or a robot or an angel or any other sentient being doing something. Some examples:

• Hermione jumped on her broomstick and raced after Malfoy.
• Michael Corleone pointed his gun at the head of the police captain and squeezed the trigger.
• C3PO pressed its fingers into the wall socket, tripping the circuit breaker and plunging the room into darkness.

Dialogue

Dialogue is a person or an animal or a robot or an angel or any other sentient being saying something. Some examples:

• “You are the last man I could ever be prevailed upon to marry,” said Elizabeth Bennet.
• “Hasta la vista, baby,” said the Terminator.
• “These are not the droids you’re looking for,” said Obi-wan Kenobi.

Interior Monologue

Interior monologue is a person or an animal or a robot or an angel or any other sentient being thinking something. Some examples:

• I’ve got to catch that bottle of nitro before it hits the floor.
• Bad news. He loves me and he loves me not.
• It’s not enough to win this fight just for today. I need to win the fight for all time.

Interior Emotion

Interior emotion is a person or an animal or a robot or an angel or any other sentient being feeling emotion.

This is more complicated than the other tools, so we need to clarify a few points before giving an example. You don’t need to name the emotion. If you name the emotion, you aren’t showing it, you’re telling it. If you want to show the emotion, you show the character’s physiological response to the emotion, and the reader figures out the emotion and may well feel it right along with the characters.

Note that physiological responses are ambiguous. They are usually not enough to pin down the exact emotion. The reader also needs context. But once you’ve given them the right context, showing them the character’s physiological response will make them feel the emotion.

I’ll give just one example. You can easily imagine different contexts in which this physiological response might signal anger, fear, horror, or possibly other emotions:

• Luke’s face burned, but the inside of his stomach was icy cold.

Sensory Description

Sensory description is showing the environment in a way that appeals to the senses. Some examples:

• The dorm room smelled of peanut butter and dirty socks.
• Neon lights flashed red and blue and green.
• Thunder smashed outside the house. Rain pounded on the roof.

Mix and Match

You have five tools for showing your reader your story. You can mix and match them any way you like. Any paragraph you write can use any combination of these five tools. That gives you endless variety for showing your story.

There are other tools for telling your story—narrative summary and exposition are the most common. You may be asking if it’s okay to use these tools.

Of course it is! These can be powerful tools, used in the right way, at the right time in your story. It’s not possible to spend 100% of your story showing, with no telling at all. Telling gets your reader quickly and efficiently through the boring parts of the story. Showing takes your reader slowly and immersively through the exciting parts of the story.

As a novelist, you get to decide what percentage of your story to show and what percentage to tell. A modern high-octane thriller might spend 98% of the story in showing and only 2% in telling. A slower-paced, more reflective novel might spend only 60% showing and 40% telling.

Just don’t fool yourself. If you intended to show your reader mostly movie, but you wound up breaking into the movie in every paragraph to tell your reader interesting footnotes, then you didn’t do what you intended. You should at least know you’re doing that.

Homework

Look at the most recent scene you wrote for your novel. Highlight every word in the scene that is not action, dialogue, interior monologue, interior emotion, or sensory description. The parts that are not highlighted are the movie you’re creating in your reader’s head. The parts that are highlighted are the interruptions to the movie. Are you surprised how many interruptions you’ve got in your movie? Or is the proportion about right?

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About The Author

Randy Ingermanson is a theoretical physicist and the award-winning author of six novels. He has taught at numerous writing conferences over the years and publishes the free monthly Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine.

 

 Randy Ingermanson Books at Amazon

The Power of Affirmations in Fiction Writing: Harnessing Positivity to Fuel Creativity

By Olivia Salter

Affirmations are a powerful tool that can shape our thoughts, beliefs, and actions. In the realm of fiction writing, where creativity and imagination play a crucial role, affirmations can be particularly transformative. By using affirmations, writers can tap into their inner creativity, overcome self-doubt, and stay motivated throughout the writing process. Let's explore how affirmations can be applied to fiction writing and how they can help writers achieve their goals.

Affirmations are positive statements that are used to challenge and overcome self-sabotaging and negative thoughts. In the context of fiction writing, affirmations can be tailored to address specific challenges that writers may face. For example, a writer struggling with writer's block can use affirmations like "My creativity flows effortlessly and abundantly" or "I am a talented storyteller with a unique voice." These positive affirmations can help reframe negative thoughts and beliefs, allowing writers to break through mental barriers and unleash their creativity.

One of the key benefits of using affirmations in fiction writing is the ability to boost confidence and self-belief. Writing can be a solitary and often daunting pursuit, filled with moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. Affirmations can serve as a powerful antidote to these negative feelings, reminding writers of their strengths and capabilities. By regularly repeating affirmations that affirm their skills and talent, writers can build a strong sense of self-confidence that empowers them to tackle challenges and push through obstacles.

Moreover, affirmations can help writers stay motivated and focused on their writing goals. The journey of writing a novel or a short story can be long and arduous, with setbacks and obstacles along the way. Affirmations like "I am dedicated to my writing goals and will persevere no matter what" or "Every word I write brings me closer to completing my masterpiece" can serve as constant reminders of the writer's commitment and determination. By integrating affirmations into their daily writing routine, writers can maintain a positive mindset and stay motivated even in the face of adversity.

In addition to boosting confidence and motivation, affirmations can also cultivate a mindset of abundance and possibility in fiction writing. By focusing on positive affirmations that emphasize abundance, such as "I have an infinite well of creativity to draw from" or "Opportunities to improve my writing skills are always available to me," writers can shift their perspective from scarcity to abundance. This mindset shift opens up new possibilities and encourages writers to explore creative ideas and storytelling techniques without fear of limitations.

Furthermore, affirmations can be a powerful tool for overcoming imposter syndrome, a common challenge that many writers face. Imposter syndrome is the persistent belief that one is not as competent or talented as others perceive them to be, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Affirmations that challenge these negative beliefs, such as "I am a skilled and accomplished writer deserving of success" or "My unique voice and perspective are valuable contributions to the literary world," can help writers silence their inner critic and embrace their true potential.

Ultimately, incorporating affirmations into fiction writing can have a profound impact on the creative process and the overall writing experience. By harnessing the power of positive affirmations, writers can unlock their full potential, cultivate confidence and self-belief, stay motivated and focused on their writing goals, and overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Whether used as a daily practice, a pre-writing ritual, or a tool for self-reflection, affirmations have the ability to transform the way writers approach their craft and unleash their creative energy.

Here are some examples of affirmations specifically designed to empower fiction writers and boost their creativity, confidence, and motivation:

1. My imagination is limitless, and my stories are filled with endless possibilities.
2. I trust in my unique voice as a writer and embrace the authenticity of my storytelling.
3. I am a magnet for creative ideas, and inspiration flows freely through me.
4. Every word I write is a step closer to bringing my characters and stories to life.
5. I am a talented storyteller with a gift for crafting compelling narratives.
6. I am committed to honing my craft and growing as a writer with each new piece I create.
7. My creativity is a powerful force that propels me forward on my writing journey.
8. I believe in the strength of my writing and the impact it can have on readers.
9. I am worthy of success and recognition for my unique contributions to the literary world.
10. I embrace challenges as opportunities to deepen my storytelling skills and evolve as a writer.
11. I trust in the process of writing, knowing that every draft brings me closer to my vision.
12. I embrace the ebbs and flows of creativity, knowing that each moment is part of my writing journey.
13. I am open to receiving feedback and turning it into opportunities for growth and improvement.
14. I honor my writing practice, making time to nurture my craft and prioritize my creative expression.
15. I respect the power of revision as a tool to shape and polish my stories into their best form.
16. I release any self-doubt or fear that hinders my creativity, allowing my imagination to flourish.
17. I am grateful for the gift of storytelling and the impact my words have on others.
18. I set clear intentions for my writing goals and take consistent action to bring them to fruition.
19. I welcome new ideas and perspectives into my writing, enriching the depth and complexity of my stories.
20. I trust in my ability to overcome writer's block and tap into the wellspring of creativity within me.

These affirmations can be personalized and tailored to align with the specific goals and struggles of individual fiction writers. By incorporating these positive affirmations into their daily routine or writing practice, writers can cultivate a mindset of abundance, boost their confidence, and stay motivated throughout their creative journey.

In conclusion, affirmations are a valuable resource that writers can use to nurture their creativity, overcome self-limiting beliefs, and stay motivated on their writing journey. By incorporating positive affirmations into their daily practice, writers can cultivate a mindset of abundance, build confidence and self-belief, and silence their inner critic. Embracing the power of affirmations in fiction writing can not only enhance the quality of one's writing but also enrich the writer's overall experience, leading to greater fulfillment and success in the creative process.

Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat! Beat Sheet for the Novelists

 

(click for larger view)

Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat! Beat Sheet for the Novelists

Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat! Beat Sheet is a popular story structure template that can be adapted for novel writing. Let’s break it down:

1.      Divide Your Word Count Into 3 Acts:

• First Act (about 25% of total word count): Introduce characters, setting, and the central conflict.
• Second Act (about 50% of total word count): Develop the plot, introduce subplots, and raise stakes.
• Third Act (about 25% of total word count): Resolve conflicts and provide a satisfying conclusion.

2.      Divide Each Act Into Scenes:

• Aim for around 1,500 words per scene.
• First Act: About 14 scenes.
• Second Act: About 28 scenes.
• Third Act: About 14 scenes.

3.      15 Story Beats (adapted for novels):

• Opening Image: Set the tone and introduce the world.
• Theme Stated: Hint at the central theme.
• Catalyst: An event that disrupts the protagonist’s routine.
• Debate: Internal struggle about pursuing the story goal.
• Break into Two: Commitment to the journey.
• B Story: Introduce secondary plot or character arc.
• Fun and Games: Engaging scenes.
• Midpoint: Significant turning point.
• Bad Guys Close In: Escalating obstacles.
• All Is Lost: Lowest point for the protagonist.
• Dark Night of the Soul: Reflection and regrouping.
• Break into Three: Final push toward climax.
• Finale: Resolution of main conflict.
• Closing Image: Last impactful scene.

Remember, this structure is a guide, not a rigid formula. Adapt it to suit your story!

Craft: Courage

By Randy Ingermanson

What’s the point of Story? Why are people hungry for Story? What can you do to ensure that your stories give people the one thing they so desperately want?

A couple of years ago, when I was writing my book How to Write a Dynamite Scene Using the Snowflake Method, I realized that Story is a community project. The point of Story is to keep the community alive.

The Tale of the Tiger

In that book, I gave as an example a story that must have been told zillions of times by our ancestors—the Tale of the Tiger. It’s a story of how a village deals with a threat to its survival when a marauding tiger targets the village’s herd of goats.

The village fights back, in the Tale of the Tiger, by organizing a tiger hunt. This is a high-stakes battle. A drought has ravaged the village’s farms, and the goats are the village’s last defense against starvation. If the village doesn’t kill the tiger, the village will die. Which means that every villager must be willing to die, if that’s what it takes to kill the tiger.

In the Tale of the Tiger, the viewpoint character is the youngest man in the village, the weakest link that the tiger attacks in the final showdown. Our hero has heard the Tale of the Tiger many times, and the Tale has taught him how to face his fears, face the tiger, and attack when all his instincts tell him to turn and run.

A Hero Is Not Enough

The key insight I had when writing the Tale of the Tiger is that our hero is not solely responsible for killing the tiger. The rest of the village plays a role by driving the tiger out of hiding.

The village story-woman plays a role, by the thousand times she has told the Tale of the Tiger in the past.

In some sense, the Tale of the Tiger itself kills the tiger.

The Powers We Face

It’s rare that any of us ever have to face a literal tiger. And yet we face metaphorical tigers every day. We face:

• Vindictive bullies.
• Well-meaning family or friends.
• Broken relationships or depression or loneliness.
• Governments or corporations or faceless organizations that do us harm.
• Damaging social and cultural and political forces.
• A hostile environment.
• Our own mortality.
• And on and on.

In a word, we face what theologian Walter Wink called the Powers. The Powers are mostly abstract and non-physical, but they’re real all the same.

The two key features of the Powers are these:

• The Powers are stronger than we are.
• The Powers will destroy us unless we find a way to defeat them.

Why Story Matters

The point of Story is to teach us how to defeat the Powers that threaten us, whatever they may be.

The Powers you face on any given day may be different from the ones I face. Therefore, the tactics you use to defeat the Powers may be different from the tactics I use.

But no matter what tactics we use, we all need one thing in order to face the Powers.

We need courage. Courage to face the tiger. Face the bully. Face your family. Face your friends. Face your government or your church or the company you work for. Face whatever Power means you harm.

Without courage, tactics are useless. Without courage, you will fold. Without courage, you will be destroyed by the Powers.

Story and Courage

The reason we desperately need Story is because Story puts us inside the skin of a character who has the courage to face the Powers.

By doing that, Story gets inside our own skin and trains us in the way of courage. Story builds our emotional muscle memory. Story trains us to face down any Power, however strong.

The more I learn about Story, the more I see that it’s all about giving my reader a blood transfusion of courage. And the side benefit is that it gives me a blood transfusion of courage.

Think about the last novel you read or the last movie you watched. Who was the lead character in the story? What Powers did they face? In what way did the Powers threaten to destroy the lead character? How did the lead Character defeat the Powers they faced? (Or how was the lead Character defeated by the Powers?) What role did courage play in the lead character’s victory? (Or what role did a lack of courage play in their defeat?)

Homework

• Who is the lead character in the story you’re writing right now?
• Do they face a Power?
• Does the Power threaten to destroy them?
• Where does your lead character find the courage to fight back?
• Does thinking about the Powers and courage help you clarify your story?

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About The Author

Randy Ingermanson is a theoretical physicist and the award-winning author of six novels. He has taught at numerous writing conferences over the years and publishes the free monthly Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine.

 

 Randy Ingermanson Books at Amazon

 

More Advanced Fiction Writing