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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Voice acting extends beyond the realm of simply being able to mimic various characters or putting on different sonic qualities. It's a misconception that often arises when people equate it to effortlessly imitating cartoony voices during casual interactions with friends. While experimenting with voices is a commendable practice, there's a profound depth to voice acting that goes beyond mere sonic distinctions.
Many individuals may assume that having a repertoire of quirky voices is sufficient to become the next voice acting sensation. The reality, however, is more nuanced. Voice acting is not just about showcasing a range of voices; it's about immersing oneself in the headspace of each character, bringing them to life through a combination of vocal techniques and acting skills. When I voiced Cam Carson in Greenhorn Tales and John in Captain Molly, both have similar sounding voices, quite close to my natural voice. However, the two characters have vastly different personalities, with one being a jovial jock who is not particularly bright, and the other being a patriot with poetic dreams for the future. It's crucial to recognize that voice acting is a blend of both voice and acting. Merely possessing a unique or eccentric voice is not enough; the true essence lies in learning to control different aspects of one's voice and acting abilities. The performance is not solely determined by the sonic quality of the voice, but rather by the personality, attitude, and overall execution of the character. Upon closer examination, there may be instances where two voices exhibit sonic similarities. However, the distinct personality, attitude, and performance infused into each voice create a noticeable separation. In essence, voice acting involves a meticulous balance of vocal control and expressive acting to deliver a captivating performance. To truly master the art of voice acting, aspiring talents should experiment with different voices, but it's equally vital to focus on refining acting skills, understanding the nuances of character portrayal. Who are your some of your favourite voice actors, or favourite types of voices to do? Comment below! In the realm of creativity, humility stands out as the greatest tool, whether in writing, drawing, sound design, acting, directing, or any creative pursuit. It's about listening to others, observing keenly, and stepping into different perspectives.
Take, for instance, the drummer at church with a unique fashion sense. While I lack a strong fashion sense, observing and incorporating the styles of others enriches character design. Creative individuals have a responsibility to tell not only their stories but also the stories of others, practising empathy and understanding. Avoiding one-dimensional characters is crucial to good storytelling. It's easy to create reflections of oneself, but a good artist is an observer who looks outward, understanding how others talk and think. Being outward focused, observing the lives of others, is key to telling a good story. "Insignificant significance", as I like to call it, emphasizes the importance of storytelling over personal recognition. While we may desire lasting recognition, the impact of our stories often outlives personal fame. It's a reminder that humility helps navigate the emotional challenges creative individuals often face, such as self-deprecation and resistance to constructive criticism. Collaboration is another facet of humility. Putting ego aside to collaborate requires humility and the willingness to accept input and relinquish control. Mature creatives understand the importance of allowing others to shape the final product. Collaboration brings a diversity of experiences, preventing blind spots and biases. Humility acknowledges that, as creatives, we're not always right. Seeking input from others enhances our work and gives it a broader perspective. This approach places the story above personal ego, emphasizing the desire to impact and connect with the audience and, ultimately, tell the stories God inspires us to tell. In conclusion, humility is the greatest tool for creatives. It transcends self-deprecation, focusing on outward understanding and collaboration. It requires recognizing personal fallibility and valuing the input of others. Humility is not just a posture; it's a mindset that shapes meaningful, impactful storytelling. What are your thoughts on humility as a tool for creatives? Comment below. |
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