Lesson 5. Changes of State, Part I │The Mechanics of Fiction Writing
Understanding Dynamic Storyworlds
The Infinite Possibilities of Storytelling
- An infinite array of events can occur in a dynamic storyworld, making it challenging to categorize how stories change from one state to another.
- Fictional universes are more expansive than the real universe, allowing for limitless creativity, including fantastical elements like dragons and robots.
- To manage this vastness, it's essential to consider how different actions and events can alter the storyworld.
Distinctions in Story Changes
Instantaneous vs. Gradual Changes
- Understanding distinctions between instantaneous and gradual changes helps writers create compelling narratives; some concepts may seem obvious but yield significant storytelling differences.
- An example of an instantaneous change is a car explosion that irrevocably alters the storyworld, affecting characters' fates and narrative direction.
- In contrast, gradual changes build suspense over time, as seen with a family facing rising floodwaters—creating tension through decision-making under pressure.
Bounded vs. Unbounded Changes
- Bounded changes have clear before-and-after states (e.g., bomb blast), while unbounded changes lack distinct boundaries in time or space (e.g., puberty).
- Coming-of-age stories often illustrate unbounded changes where multiple smaller events contribute to character development without a single defining moment.
The Role of Happenings in Stories
Understanding Happenings
- Happenings are unexpected events that impose change on characters; they can include natural disasters or personal crises that drive the narrative forward.
- Writers should focus on how characters react to happenings since these reactions often form the core suspense of the story.
Exploring Tension and Symbolism in Storytelling
The Role of Events in Love Stories
- The speaker discusses how significant events, such as floods and explosions, can enhance a love story by adding tension and symbolic meaning.
- These dramatic occurrences transform an otherwise ordinary narrative into something more engaging and memorable.
- A humorous mention of "Dragonbots" indicates the speaker's creative approach to storytelling elements, suggesting a playful tone in their discussion.
- The speaker emphasizes that while these events are crucial, they represent only half of what makes a story compelling; the characters are equally important.