Other Story Models
By Glen C. Strathy
Dramatica is not the only story model that has become popular in recent decades. And while we feel it is the most comprehensive and covers the widest range of story types, others models have their merits, especially if you are looking for something simpler to get you started.
When you are working on a story, what you often need is a simple, clear model so you can worry less about story structure and focus instead on the characters, the specific incidents, and the actual words with which you express the story.
Bear in mind that the principles of sound story structure are the largely universal. But story is a complex thing to define, and many writers and theorists have worked hard to create models of how story works, often using different labels for the same elements. This is a vast improvement over the days when every writer essentially had to figure out for him/herself how to write a satisfying story. Nonetheless, the lack of a standard model does make for a certain amount of confusion. (In fact, writers often feel motivated to come up with their own model so that they have something unique to present in workshops, which can make things confusing for beginning writers who attend a lot of workshops.)
While you may find it helps your writing to stick with one
comprehensive model that makes sense for you, it's also helpful to be
familiar with some of the other models, so that, when you have
conversations about stories with writers who use them, you can have a
shared understanding.
Of course, what you have to watch out
for is that some story models only describe one particular type of
story, while ignoring other possibilities. For instance, some models
only focus on happy endings. Others may be very genre-specific.
Below please find links to articles where we compare Dramatica with some of the other models of story structure you are likely to encounter.
Story Models You Should Know About...
Syd Field's Model of Screenplay Structure
Legendary screenwriting guru Syd Field proposed a model of story structure that seems to be a forerunner of the W-Plot. Plus he offers a wealth of practical advice for all writers.
The Monomyth Story Model
Also known as "The Hero's Journey," this classic model is ideally suited to Young Adult stories. Here we look at its origin and components, and correct some common misconceptions.
Michael Hague's Story Model
Michael Hague, author of Screenplays that Sell, is one of today's foremost Hollywood story gurus. This article compares his theory of story structure with that of Dramatica.
The W-Plot
One of the easiest story models to use, particularly in genre fiction, is the W-Plot, as expressed by Mary Carroll Moore, author of Your Story Starts Here. Here we compare it with Dramatica.
Understanding the Seven Basic Plots
A comparison between Dramatica and The Seven Basic Plots: Why we tell stories by Christopher Booker. Booker argues that most stories throughout history have followed one of seven (or nine) basic plots. Knowing these could help with your storytelling.
The Seven...Actually Nine... Basic Plots Themselves
A closer look at Christopher Booker's basic stories, from the perspective of a four-act structure. Includes charts illustrating the progression of each act, which is valuable if you are writing in one of these genres.
|
||
| site search by freefind |
Recent Postings
-
Which is worse?
Jan 05, 19 07:28 PM
Question: Which is the better plot decision: To have a character achieve their goal knowing full well that it will kill them and then having the character
-
Writing diversity as a white author
Dec 30, 18 10:21 PM
Hi! I'm writing a story that focuses on a mother and her three daughters as the main characters. I've always seen these characters as Caucasian mostly
"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
New! Comments
What do you think about this page? Leave me a comment in the box below.