How A Writer Can Turn An Ordinary Idea Into A Great One - Corey Mandell

Summary

Corey Mandell discusses how writers can transform ordinary ideas into extraordinary narratives by creating emotional connections with their audience. He draws on Shakespeare's techniques, emphasizing the importance of engagement in an unregulated environment where audiences could easily disengage. By using relatable characters facing heightened circumstances, such as Walter White from *Breaking Bad* and those in *The Office*, writers can captivate viewers. Mandell encourages writers to confront their fears and explore deeper emotional truths, questioning their courage to tackle complex themes in their storytelling. This approach not only entertains but resonates profoundly with audiences.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understanding the importance of digital presence is crucial for businesses today.
• 😀 Effective communication with customers can enhance brand loyalty and trust.
• 😀 Embracing technology and innovation is essential for staying competitive in the market.
• 😀 Regularly updating content on platforms can improve engagement and visibility.
• 😀 Analyzing customer feedback helps in refining products and services.
• 😀 Utilizing social media strategies can significantly expand a brand's reach.
• 😀 Collaboration and partnerships can lead to new opportunities for growth.
• 😀 Being adaptable to change is key in navigating market fluctuations.
• 😀 Educating the team about digital tools can boost overall productivity.
• 😀 Setting clear goals and measuring outcomes is vital for continuous improvement.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of Corey Mandell's discussion?

Corey Mandell focuses on how writers can transform ordinary ideas into heightened concepts by using relatable storytelling techniques, drawing examples from Shakespeare and modern narratives.

How did Shakespeare engage his audience despite the challenging environment of the Globe Theater?

Shakespeare engaged his audience by creating relatable characters and extraordinary stories that immediately grabbed attention, knowing that the survival of his actors depended on captivating the audience.

What is the difference between high concept and heightened storytelling, according to Mandell?

High concept focuses on bigger and more sensational ideas, while heightened storytelling emphasizes extraordinary narratives that resonate emotionally with the audience, making them relatable.

Can you give an example of a character from modern media that exemplifies the idea of heightened storytelling?

Walter White from 'Breaking Bad' exemplifies heightened storytelling, as he represents an ordinary man's struggle with economic despair, leading him to take extraordinary actions, allowing audiences to relate while recognizing the differences in their own lives.

Why is it important for characters to evoke emotions that audiences can relate to?

Characters need to evoke relatable emotions to create a connection with the audience, making the story engaging and encouraging viewers to reflect on their own experiences.

What lesson can writers learn from the way Shakespeare approached storytelling?

Writers can learn that effective storytelling lies in combining ordinary emotional experiences with extraordinary circumstances, which keeps the audience engaged and invested in the narrative.

How does Mandell suggest writers should confront their fears in storytelling?

Mandell suggests that writers should confront their fears by addressing personal challenges and incorporating them into their narratives, similar to how characters face their demons in stories.

What does the term 'extraordinary' mean in the context of storytelling?

In storytelling, 'extraordinary' refers to a heightened version of ordinary experiences, where relatable themes are amplified to create compelling narratives that resonate with the audience.

How does Mandell relate the struggles of contemporary characters to Shakespeare's work?

Mandell relates contemporary characters to Shakespeare's work by illustrating how both create heightened situations that explore universal emotional conflicts, making the audience feel connected despite the differences in context.

What is the overall takeaway from Mandell's discussion about writing?

The overall takeaway is that writers should aim to create emotionally engaging stories by balancing relatable themes with extraordinary elements, allowing them to resonate with audiences on a deeper level.