What Is a Motif? Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored how repetition can shape meaning and stir emotion, from anaphora to refrain. Now, we'll dive even deeper into repetition through layers of meaning beyond just emotional meaning. So let’s talk about Motif. A motif is a recurring element in a story, like an image,…
Choosing Themes in Fiction: A Writer’s Journey
The writer reflects on the development of themes in their work, particularly focusing on women's experiences and their struggles. Central themes include the search for truth in a corrupt world and the tension between science and spirituality, exemplified in the character Carly from La Piscina Inn. Ultimately, the author contemplates destiny and personal agency in storytelling.
Designing the Theme Around Your Character’s Flaw
What is Theme in a Story? Once you've established your protagonist’s main traits, both positive and negative, and placed them in contrast with other characters through the technique known as character juxtaposition, you've done more than just build character. You’ve already moved towards designing your story’s theme. Why? Because a character’s flaw is more than…
Story Structure Studio: Device and Design... 