Disaster stories
by Howard
(California)
Question: I'm stuck trying to wrangle a disaster story. Survivors of a plane crash have to trek out on their own. What does Dramatica tell us about the disaster genre? Thanks.
Answer: Dramatica doesn't attempt to be overly specific about genres. About the only thing that's fairly clear regarding disaster stories is that the driver is action. In other words, actions (the unfolding disastrous events) force people to make decisions in response. The disaster brings out the best/worst in different characters as they struggle to cope. For instance, if you're using a four-act structure, you would make the turning point that begins each act an action which forces the story in a different direction, until the final resolution (also an action). Also, there's a lot of entertainment value from the awe inspiring situation of the disaster.
Beyond that it's hard to generallize. Disaster is essentially a terrible situation - and situation is one of dramatica's four domains.
In most disaster stories, situation is the domain for the overall story, with the characters concerned about solving their present survival before the situation drives them mad.
The relationship throughline (between the hero and love interest) concerns Fixed Attitude. In that case, while everyone is struggling to cope with the rapidly changing environment, the conflict in the key relationship will involve their butting heads because they have different but entrenched views.
The main character may be pressured to play a role or become a different person in order to survive or save other' lives.
In other disaster stories (for instance, Titanic) the overall story is Fixed Attitude - with all the characters pursuing their deep desires - while the relationship between Jack and Rose concerns how they cope with the situations they keep finding themselves together in.
Beyond that, you can tell a wide range of stories using the disaster as a setting.
Comments for Disaster stories
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
| site search by freefind |
Recent Postings
-
Agent
Jun 12, 19 08:33 PM
Question: I've decided to self-publish, Is it still a good idea to have a literary agent? Answer: The job of a literary agent is to find a publisher for
-
Fictitious Setting
Jun 11, 19 09:35 PM
Question: Thanks for your Novel Planning Book and all the other information made available on your site. I've been writing my fourth Mystery series novel
"I've read more than fifty books on writing, writing novels, etc., but your website has the most useful and practical guidance. Now that I understand how a novel is structured, I will rewrite mine, confident that it will be a more interesting novel." - Lloyd Edwards
"Thanks to your "Create a Plot Outline in 8 Easy Steps," I was able to take a story that I simply just fooled around with and went willy nilly all over, into a clearly defined, intriguing battle where two characters fight to keep their relationship intact, and try to find a balance in control of themselves and their lives. Thanks to you, I'm not ashamed of the poor organization of my writing." - Nommanic Ragus
"I am so glad I found your site. It has helped me in so many ways, and has given me more confidence about myself and my work. Thank you for making this valuable resource, for me and my fellow writers. Perhaps you'll hear about me someday...I'll owe it to you." - Ruth, Milton, U.S.A.
"I never knew what to do with all the characters in my head, but since discovering Dramatica I am writing again in my spare time. Thank you for making this available. Yes, it is a bit complex, and it does take time, but I love it because it works." - Colin Shoeman
"I came across your website by chance. It is a plethora of
knowledge, written in a simplistic way to help aspiring writers. I
truly appreciate all of the information you have provided to help me
successfully (relative term) write my novel. Thank you very much!" - Leo T. Rollins
"I
can honestly say that this is the first website that is really helpful.
You manage to answer complex questions in relatively short articles and
with really intelligent answers. Thank you for taking the time to write
these articles and sharing them so generously." - Chrystelle Nash
"...had no idea that a simple click would give me such a wealth of valuable information. The site not only offered extremely clear and helpful instructions but was a very enjoyable read as well. The education from your wonderful site has made me a better writer and your words have inspired me to get back to work on my novel. I wish to give you a heartfelt thanks for How to Write a Book Now, sir." -- Mike Chiero
