Problems with dramatica...
(Los Angeles)
Question: I have finally read what seems like a million pages, and now finally I'm writing! I'm just writing about the minor characters and their stories and I am sooo excited about what I get them to do!
I'm with the 4 point theory, as with the 8 elements in my book.
I had become so scared to even write something, that I became inept in thinking that I could ever write!
Now I have a good time with knowing the basic rules, but now know what I'm doing!
My question is, do you have to use dramatica in writing a fictional novel now? Or is it just something that is helpful whether you use it or not?
Thanks, Glen, you are awesome!
Answer: Of course you don't have to use dramatica. I have simply found dramatica to be the most complete model of what makes stories work.
Use it when you are stuck for how to flesh out a plot, or when you have a story that isn't working and you want to improve it.
There are other models that attempt to explain story structure, but most of them try reduce everything down to a small number of allowable story structures - for example, the 7 basic plots. Some reduce everything to one particular story structure and hold that up as the ideal for all stories.
Dramatica is the only model that allows for over 32,000 dramatically sound story structures. It's the only one that identifies the four throughlines (most models have two at most), and it best describes the function of impact character. It is also the best at explaining why different structures can still be dramatically sound.
You can try using the Dramatica software. It has advantages, provided you have a good grasp of the theory. Many people find the theory and software too complex to be practical. On this site, I try to present the theory in a way that makes it simple enough to be empowering without becoming overwhelming.
Comments for Problems with dramatica...
|
||
|
||
- Home
- Writing Questions
- Problems with dramatica...
Search this site...
|
||
| site search by freefind |
Popular Articles
Mini-Course
Never be stuck for a great story idea again! This online mini-course will show you how to create simple ideas for original characters and build a plot around each character that contains the essential elements needed for a compelling story.
Recent Postings
-
Choosing a Book Title
questions and answers on choosing a book title that fits your novel or nonfiction manuscript. -
How to Write Scenes
How to write scenes in a novel or short story -
How to do a phone conversation?
Question: In my book there are a couple time when a character is talking on a phone or through an ear piece to someone. How would I do the conversation?
"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
