A powerful approach to crafting stories is to incorporate theater techniques, particularly the structure of play writing, into the creation of a novel. Theatrical structure, with its explicit acts, scenes, and dramatic arcs, can add fresh energy to a novel. It can provide a helpful framework that can improve a novel’s pacing, tension, and emotional…

The idea of backstory often sparks discussion among writers, critics, and readers. Backstory is the history and context that come before the current story. It’s essential for developing characters by helping move the plot forward and adding depth to themes. Understanding the role of backstory in shaping characters is important. Supporters of backstory believe that…

The hero’s journey is a common story structure that takes a main character from their everyday life and thrusts them into a challenging world. This journey leads to personal growth and often ends with the hero returning home, sometimes feeling bittersweet. Joseph Campbell explains this concept in his book “The Hero with a Thousand Faces.”…