My Storytelling Rules
There must be a hundred different rules to abide by—writing has its own set, and Storytelling has its own. And I am more interested in Storytelling.
I play drums and guitar. I’m also an oil-on-canvas painter. About a decade ago, I took a series of Creative Writing classes at the university. I love creativity. I’m not sure those classes taught me as much as the books I’ve read or the videos I’ve watched, but nevertheless, I’m sure I came out of them with something, and that “educated” background is there.
I’m a software developer, and I believe it’s the logical thinker in me who feels the need to design a story. I cannot simply pantsing. I must have a plan. I’m also forgetful and undisciplined in my writing. Therefore, I feel the need to write this post. A reminder to myself. Something to reference.
I will do well if I can focus on adhering to these rules.
Chapters Rules
Each chapter builds character (relatable, identifiable, empathy).
Each chapter advances plot.
Each chapter builds suspense.
Each chapter utilizes sensory.
Each chapter balances Action, Dialogue, Narrative.
Each chapter Beginning, Middle, Ending (has purpose).
Each chapter has a hook and cliffhanger.
Each chapter varies in paragraphs and sentences.
Each chapter as a proper pace, tone, and mood.
Plot Rules
Rule of three characters.
Rule of three plots (Main, Sub, Sub).
Rule of three problems.
Seven Act critical scenes (at 0%, 15%, 30%, etc)
Always Raising the Stakes.
Unexpected Twists and Turns.
A few Red Herrings (sparingly applied misleading clues).
Foreshadowing.
Writing Rules
Show, Don't Tell (external and internal emotions)—I always forget this.
Allow for White Space.
Never dump World-building.
Distinct narrative voice.