Don't be boring

A brief peek at storytelling

As a writer, I know that storytelling is an art form that can transport readers to different worlds and captivate their imaginations. But telling a good story isn't always easy. It takes practice, patience, and a willingness to experiment. I have two of the three.

First things first: every good story has a beginning, middle, and end. It may sound like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people forget this fundamental rule. A story needs to start somewhere, it needs to have a central conflict that drives the narrative forward, and it needs to come to a satisfying resolution.

// Side note: In advertising, I structure my copy in a similar way.
Interest > Conflict > Resolution/Solution

But what makes a story interesting? Well, that's where the fun begins. The best stories are those that make readers care about the characters and the stakes involved. Readers want to be invested in what's happening on the page. Whether it's a romance, a mystery, or a commercial, the story needs to make readers feel something.

One way to do this is by using sensory details. By describing the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures of a scene, you can create a vivid picture in the reader's mind. For example, instead of saying "She walked into a coffee shop," you could say "She pushed open the door of the coffee shop, and the rich aroma of roasted beans hit her like a warm hug." See the difference? It's the little details that can really bring a story to life.

Another important aspect of storytelling is pacing. You don't want to rush through the story, but you also don't want to drag it out for too long. You need to find the right balance. Sometimes, it helps to take a step back and evaluate the structure of your story. Are there parts that are lagging? Are there parts that could be cut? Are there parts that need to be expanded? It's all about finding what works best for your particular story.

Of course, storytelling isn't just limited to writing. We tell stories all the time in our daily lives, whether it's recounting a funny anecdote or sharing a personal experience. The key is to remember the basic elements of a good story: a beginning, middle, and end, a central conflict, and characters that readers care about.

For example, let's say you're telling a story about a time when you got lost in a foreign city. You could start by setting the scene and describing the sights and sounds of the bustling streets. Then, you could introduce the conflict: you don't know where you are, and you don't speak the language. Finally, you could wrap up the story with a satisfying resolution, such as finding your way back to your hotel with the help of a friendly local.

So there you have it, folks: some tips and tricks for how to tell a story. Remember, storytelling is all about experimentation and finding what works for you. Whether you're a writer or just a casual storyteller, don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. Who knows, you might just come up with the next great American novel. Or at the very least, a really good anecdote to share at your next dinner party.

Got a story to tell? Let me know in the comments.