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. If this article helped you in any way, consider saying thank you by buying me a coffee.
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