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Lesson 12. Time: Order │The Mechanics of Fiction Writing
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Lesson 12. Time: Order │The Mechanics of Fiction Writing

Understanding Time in Storytelling

The Role of Action Verbs and Temporal Sequence

  • The discussion begins with the concept that action verbs propel time forward within a story, creating a temporal sequence for readers.
  • Most narratives follow a linear timeline reflecting our real-world experience of past, present, and future, making it easier for both authors and readers to navigate the story.

Deviating from Linear Timelines

  • Some storytellers use non-linear timelines for narrative effect; an example is the Climactic Hook where the climax is presented first to engage readers' interest.
  • This technique leads to a disordered presentation of events, prompting a deeper exploration of how such deviations affect storytelling.

Historical Context: Fabula vs. Sjuzet

  • The breaking of linear timelines has roots in modern narrative theory, particularly discussed by Russian Formalists who introduced terms like fabula (story content) and sjuzet (story structure).
  • While these terms are noted, they are not essential for understanding the current discussion on storytelling techniques.

Illustrative Example: A Fictional Storyworld

  • An illustrative scenario is presented where civilization's timeline is followed from early human storytelling through various historical epochs up to modern times.
  • The narrator imagines Greek gods as immortal beings influencing contemporary economic systems, showcasing how shuffling timelines can create complex narratives.

Crafting Suspense Through Non-linear Story-sequence

  • By starting with conflict in modern times and then revealing backstories through flashbacks, suspense can be maintained effectively throughout the narrative.
  • This method allows for character development while keeping readers engaged with present-day stakes before delving into historical context.

Terminology: Flashback and Flashforward

Understanding Nonlinear Storytelling Techniques

Key Terminology in Nonlinear Narratives

  • The term "gap" is introduced as a simpler alternative to "ellipsis," referring to time skipped in narratives. This concept is crucial for understanding flashbacks and flashforwards.

Reasons for Shuffling Timelines

  • Writers shuffle timelines not only to sustain suspense but also to explore thematic connections among characters, as seen in films like Julie & Julia and The Godfather II.

Thematic Connections in Film

  • In The Godfather II, the parallel stories of Michael and Vito Corleone illustrate their similar paths from poverty to power, enhancing the narrative's depth through contrasting timelines.
  • Julie & Julia juxtaposes the lives of Julia Child and a modern-day blogger, effectively creating a coherent story by linking their experiences across different time periods. This technique emphasizes thematic parallels between the two women.

Object or Place as Narrative Anchors

  • The Red Violin uses a fictional violin's tumultuous history across various timelines to create suspense leading up to its auction, demonstrating how objects can unify disparate plotlines. Each segment enhances viewer connection with the object’s legacy.
  • Stories can also be anchored around significant places with rich histories, allowing self-contained plots that contribute to an overarching narrative theme. Examples include historical villages or temples that tie together various character arcs.

Hidden Past Narratives

  • In The Bridges of Madison County, dual timelines reveal a hidden past through letters exchanged between a mother and her secret lover, affecting her children's understanding of their family history and illustrating contrasts between perceived reality and truth.

Tips for Writing Across Multiple Timelines

Plotting Complex Narratives

The Importance of Plotting

  • In complex narratives, "plotting" becomes essential for clarity and organization.
  • Utilizing tools like index cards can aid in managing intricate storylines effectively.
  • The complexity of mixing timelines can lead to theoretically infinite possibilities, making careful planning crucial.
  • Deciding what information to reveal at specific points significantly influences the reader's perception of the narrative.
Playlists: The Mechanics of Fiction Writing
Video description

The order the narrator relates the events in the story is an often overlooked element of plot. There are good reasons to break from traditional linear narratives, and we'll cover many of these reasons here. If you're interested in supporting this channel so I can continue to make videos like this one and others, please like, subscribe, and share with other writers. You can also help support the channel directly by visiting: https://www.rowelit.com/support The companion book for this series containing lecture notes and exercises is tailored to sharpen the skills covered in each lesson and is available through my online bookstore: https://www.amazon.com/author/p.e.rowe Purchasing a copy for yourself or a fellow writer helps to support this channel and your own writing skills.