As writers, there is no replacement for reading as a practice to become a better writer, but studying film or television can be just as instructive. The key is knowing how to analyze a story to understand what works in it and why. My students are analyzing the film The Princess Bride this week. They’ll deconstruct the plot, the characterization, the dialogue techniques, and more. Our goal isn’t to leave the film dissected like a frog pinned open, raw and disgusting. Our goal in analyzing the film (or any reading) is to deepen our understanding of the techniques the author, director, and actors use in telling an effective story. Seeing the craftsmanship deepens our appreciation for a story. What if that one question could make you a stronger reader, viewer, and ultimately writer? First, Recognize What You're Reading Ultimately we’re building models for our own work by asking one critical question. We draw inspiration from everything we encounter, but when we get serious about strengthening our writing, we need to step up our reading and viewing habits.īefore we ask our critical question, we have to begin by being honest about what we consume. What are we reading? Watching? Experiencing? If we want to be better writers, we have to make specific choices.Īnything I put into my mind and body will come out in some form. I consistently ask myself what I’m allowing to influence my work and life. I make space for reading and viewing that is less instructive, but I know I want to be challenged too and make choices accordingly. Of course, simply knowing the right question isn't enough. Here's the process I used with my students to learn from the master storytelling in The Princess Bride: 1. Identify what worked well in the book or show. Whether it is characterization, tension or a structure, figure out what was compelling.įor example, in The Princess Bride, students noticed the repeating quest structure and how it proves the hero’s new worth. If a writer is building a hero, what elements or episodes make the main character heroic? If a writer has created tension, what separate elements does she bring together to create tension? Is the protagonist working against a clock or is there dramatic irony and the audience knows he’s about to walk into a trap? How did Goldman elevate Westley’s status to make him heroic? He’s not a knight or noble, but his adventures and trials prove his worth. In our example, Westley (as the Man in Black) defeats Inigo, Fezzik, and Vizzini. How did Goldman do that? He set up three trials for Westley, each requiring a different skill: sword-fighting, strength, and wit. Once Westley reveals his true identity to Buttercup, they have to face three new trials as a couple in the fire swamp: flame spurts, lightning sand, and rodents of unusual size (R.O.U.S.). When they emerge victorious, they are both ready for the ultimate trial of another separation to prove their love. Now you have a list, and it’s time to apply what you’ve learned. If you have a lackluster hero, give him some trials to overcome (bonus if you can raise the stakes with each trial). He doesn’t have to win them all, but he’ll grow with each one.
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