The 6 Rules of Storytelling

Hello everyone, and welcome back.

To quote Yuval Noah Harari, the author of Sapiens and Homo Deus:

“Homo sapiens is a storytelling animal that thinks in stories rather than in numbers or graphs and believes that the universe itself works like a story, replete with heroes and villains, conflicts and resolutions, climaxes and happy endings. When we look for the meaning of life, we want a story that will explain what reality is all about and what my particular role is in the cosmic drama. This role makes me a part of something bigger than myself and gives meaning to all my experiences and choices.”

Every time I sit down to write, no matter the genre, this quote guides me. Storytelling isn't just about narrating a fictional tale—it's about expressing thoughts in an engaging and effective way. Let me know your thoughts on this quote in the comments!

In this video, I'll cover 6 essential storytelling rules, drawing on insights from Pixar's narrative techniques, as Pixar is renowned for its exceptional storytelling. They’ve won numerous awards including 13 Academy Awards, 9 Golden Globes, and 11 Grammys. Understanding the nuances of storytelling can transform good stories into unforgettable ones.

1. Great Tales Are Timeless

Timeless storytelling delves into universal aspects of the human condition—emotions, desires, conflicts. As Pixar director Pete Docter says, "When you tell a story, you’re trying to make the audience feel what you felt." To make a story timeless:

• Relate to Human Experiences: Ensure your story reflects universal themes.
• Be Self-Aware: Recognize the emotions you want to evoke and craft your narrative to resonate on a deep level.

Tips:

• Know Your Audience: Understand who will connect with your story.
• Decide Your Story Type: Determine the emotional response you want to elicit.
• Establish a Call to Action: Clearly define what you want your audience to do after engaging with your story.

2. Great Stories Have a Distinct Structure and Goal

Effective storytelling often follows a structure. One method is Kenn Adams’ "Story Spine":

• Once upon a time: Introduce your world and characters.
• Every day: Establish the routine.
• One day: Present the conflict or inciting incident.
• Because of that: Show the consequences of the conflict.
• Until finally: Resolve the conflict.

Purpose:

• Why This Story?: Identify the core message or belief driving your story.
• Goals: Aim to entertain, educate, be universal, organized, and memorable.

3. Wonderful Stories Have a Hero to Cheer For

People love rooting for heroes, especially underdogs. Pixar emphasizes that we value characters based on their journey rather than just their success. The underdog's struggle and growth make for compelling narratives.

Examples:

• Underdog Stories: Like the classic "rags to riches" tales or characters overcoming great odds.

4. Great Stories Touch Our Most Primal Emotions

Stories that evoke primal emotions—anger, fear, pleasure, sorrow, and surprise—resonate deeply. According to Paul J. Zak in "How Stories Change the Brain," emotional stories trigger oxytocin, enhancing empathy and connection.

Tips:

• Shoot for the Heart: Aim to create an emotional connection.
• Capture the Mind: Engage the audience’s rational side as well.
• Add Humor: Humor can connect people and release energy.

5. Great Stories Are Unexpected and Shocking

Modern stories often challenge our expectations. Pixar uses animation to explore complex themes and societal issues, offering surprising twists and fresh perspectives.

Tips:

• Push Beyond the First Idea: Strive for originality by exploring multiple angles.

6. Great Stories Are Crisp, Concise, and to the Point

Avoid overloading your story with unnecessary details. Pixar advises simplifying and focusing on essential elements to keep the audience engaged.

Tips:

• Simplify: Trim excess and ensure your story is easy to follow.
• Test Your Story: Share it with others to see if it flows well and holds their attention.

Conclusion

These rules are a foundation for crafting compelling narratives. Keep experimenting and refining your storytelling craft to make your stories resonate with your audience. If you’re new here, subscribe to our channel and share your thoughts in the comments.

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Until next time, keep writing and exploring your creative side!