As a storyteller, one of the persistent dilemmas is deciding where to start a story. It's a contemplation that occupies the minds of many, pondering over which part should serve as the backstory and where the actual narrative begins. Exploring this question has been on my mind lately, prompting a reflection on the importance of selecting the right starting point for a story or a scene.
The challenge lies in acknowledging that there's always a story that precedes the story we choose to tell. The decision on where to start involves navigating through the layers of potential backstory, setting the tone for the unfolding narrative. It raises questions about how much to explain upfront and whether to provide a comprehensive context or let the story unfold organically. The start of your story is where you convince your audience to stay with you, or to read something else. Starting with something engaging, like action, can be a good way to draw people in. We need to choose a starting point that introduces a dynamic element early on. It's a delicate balance between providing context and diving into the heart of the action, ensuring that the narrative grips the audience's attention from the outset. What are some of your favourite beginning scenes, or lines, in a story? Comment about them below.
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"Witnesses," the captivating audio drama, stands out for its exceptional narration. Now, I'm not a big fan of narration in audio drama, but I am a big fan of Witnesses. So what is it about author Tracy Van Dolder's narration that works?
The brilliance of Witnesses narration lies in its ability to narrate the impact of Jesus' actions through the lens of those who witnessed him. It goes beyond merely recounting events. The effectiveness stems from the idea that we, as listeners, are not just passive observers of Jesus' actions. Instead, we become participants in the emotional journey of those who bore witness. This added layer of connection enhances our understanding of the impact and significance of each event. Through the narration, we gain insight into how these individuals were changed and affected by the presence of Jesus in their lives. As listeners, we benefit from having a guide, a narrative voice that helps us navigate the emotional landscape of the story. It's not about being forceful or overly direct; rather, it's an artful narration that invites us to feel and reflect without being explicitly told how to do so. The beauty of Witnesses lies in its ability to strike a delicate balance—providing guidance without being heavy-handed. This approach allows listeners to form their own emotional responses, fostering a more genuine and personal connection with the narrative. As creators, understanding the delicate balance of guiding listeners without being too explicit is key to crafting a narrative that resonates deeply. What are some of your favourite stories with good narration? Comment about them below. When writing elements you're excited about into a story, there exists a significant challenge: how to balance creative expression without straying into indulgent tangents.
For example, in a dramatic take on a Bible story, the risk is twofold—either running too far with creative license, resulting in unintended theological side effects, or adhering so closely that the narrative loses its allure, resembling a Bible rehash rather than a captivating adaptation. The heart of the matter lies in distinguishing between indulgences and flourishes in storytelling. Imagine the story as a culinary masterpiece, and the creative elements as the seasoning. It's a delicate process of adding just the right amount of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor without overshadowing the main course. Indulgences, in this context, represent the danger of veering into territory that strays too far from the essence of the story your telling, or the clarity of the story. In the Biblical fiction example, it's like creating a whole new story loosely based on the Bible, risking the loss of its core message. On the other hand, a dogmatic approach may render the story uninteresting, as it becomes a mere regurgitation of the familiar biblical account, prompting readers to question the purpose of the adaptation. A great example of Bible fiction which has flourishes but not off topic indulgences, is David vs Joseph, by HeartMatters, which I had the pleasure of doing the sound design for. The beauty lies in the concept of flourishes—those subtle, human moments that add texture and depth to the narrative. Unlike indulgences, these flourishes act as seasoning, enriching the story without overshadowing its essence. They are the salt and pepper that elevate the experience, making the storytelling more relatable and engaging. These human moments, whether in Bible fiction or any other genre, serve as the threads connecting audiences to the characters and their experiences. When seasoned in well, rather than rambling on, they provide a deeper connection with the story without detracting from it. In conclusion, the art of storytelling involves a careful dance between indulgences and flourishes. By treating creative elements as thoughtful additions rather than distractions, writers can strike a balance, adding just the right amount of seasoning to the narrative. The result is a story that captivates, enriches, and satisfies the reader's appetite for a unique and flavorful experience. What are some of your favourite subtle additions that elevated a story for you? What were some things an other overplayed to the point of distraction? Comment about them below. |
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