How to write a story | John Dufresne | TEDxFIU

Summary

This script is a masterclass in storytelling, emphasizing the necessity of sitting down to write and creating conflict. It illustrates the journey of characters Grady and Alice, who face the devastating loss of their daughter, Hope. The narrative explores themes of grief, marriage, and redemption, guiding the writer through the process of developing characters, plot, and setting. The story unfolds as Grady seeks to mend their broken marriage, battling despair and the struggle to understand their daughter's choices. The script encourages embracing the writing process, including the inevitable revisions, to craft a compelling narrative.

Takeaways

• 💺 The first command in writing fiction is to sit down and write, as thinking about writing does not create a story.
• 🔍 A central character should be in a desperate situation, facing obstacles and taking measures that the writer themselves would not want to face.
• 📖 Writing involves exploring the inexpressible and embracing the nervousness that comes with it, as every story is a potential failure.
• 🛤️ A writer must trust their imagination and the writing process to guide them through the story, even if they don't know the end at the start.
• 🤔 Writing is about questioning and exploring rather than providing answers or solving problems, which is more engaging for the reader.
• 📚 A plot is essential for a story, as it gives narrative shape and drives the central character towards a meaningful goal.
• 👥 The story often revolves around a central character who wants something intensely and faces opposition in their pursuit.
• 🏠 Details about characters and their environment can provide insight into their lives and contribute to the story's themes.
• 👁️ The act of writing is like archaeology, where every detail can offer a deeper understanding of the characters and their world.
• 📝 The writing process involves creating scenes that are vivid and intimate, using 'showing' over 'telling' to engage the reader's imagination.
• ✍️ Revision is a crucial part of writing, as stories are not written perfectly in the first draft but are refined through rewriting.

Q & A

What is the first command in writing fiction according to the script?

The first command in writing fiction is to 'sit your ass in the chair,' emphasizing the importance of taking action and actually writing rather than just thinking about it.

Why is it important to put obstacles in the way of the characters you love in a story?

Putting obstacles in the way of beloved characters is important because it creates conflict and tension, which are essential for driving the narrative and making the story engaging.

What does the script suggest about the inevitability of failure in every story?

The script suggests that every story is a failure in the sense that no story is perfect, but this should not deter a writer. Instead, it should make the writer fearless and open to the writing process.

What is the significance of the central character's struggle in a story?

The central character's struggle is significant because it provides the driving force for the narrative. It's through this struggle that the character grows and the story progresses towards its resolution.

How does the script define a plot in terms of the central character?

The script defines a plot as the journey of one central character who wants something intensely and goes after it despite opposition, resulting in a win or loss that shapes the narrative.

Why is it crucial for a writer to know the details of the setting in which their characters live?

Knowing the details of the setting is crucial because it provides insight into the characters' lives and personalities. These details can be used to enrich the narrative and make the story more vivid and relatable.

What role does the character's physical appearance play in the story development?

A character's physical appearance, such as scars or accessories, can reveal important aspects of their backstory and personality, contributing to the depth and complexity of the character.

How does the script discuss the importance of the theme in a story?

The script discusses the importance of theme by illustrating how themes like vision, healing, and loss emerge from the details of the characters and setting, guiding the direction of the story.

What is the significance of the character's actions and dialogue in the script?

The character's actions and dialogue are significant as they reveal their emotions, motivations, and conflicts. They are the primary means through which the story unfolds and the characters' relationships develop.

How does the script differentiate between 'showing' and 'telling' in storytelling?

The script differentiates by stating that 'showing' engages the reader's imagination and emotions through vivid scenes, while 'telling' provides a distant and efficient summary of events.

What advice does the script give on the writing process and the role of revisions?

The script advises that stories aren't written perfectly in the first draft; they are rewritten. It emphasizes the importance of having a draft to revise and refine, suggesting that the writing process is iterative and involves multiple drafts.