Beyond the Western Narrative: Embracing the Kishōtenketsu Structure

The Kishōtenketsu Structure is a narrative framework that originates from traditional Japanese storytelling, particularly in poetry and theater. Unlike many Western narrative structures, the Kishōtenketsu Structure does not rely on conflict or resolution, but rather on the four elements of kishō, shōten, ten, and ketsu. In this blog post, we will explore the Kishōtenketsu Structure, its advantages and drawbacks, and some examples of its usage.

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The Kishōtenketsu Structure Framework:

1. Kishō (Introduction): The kishō is the opening element of the story, where the audience is introduced to the characters and setting.
2. Shōten (Development): The shōten is the second element of the story, where the narrative begins to unfold, and the audience is given more information about the characters and their motivations.
3. Ten (Twist): The ten is the third element of the story, where a twist or surprise occurs, which changes the direction of the narrative.
4. Ketsu (Conclusion): The ketsu is the final element of the story, where the loose ends are tied up, and the story reaches its conclusion.

Advantages and Drawbacks:

One advantage of the Kishōtenketsu Structure is its unique approach to storytelling, which allows for more nuanced exploration of characters and themes. The framework can also be helpful in creating a sense of mystery or surprise, as the twist element occurs later in the narrative.

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However, one drawback of the Kishōtenketsu Structure is that it may feel too subtle or understated for some writers or audiences. The framework may also be challenging to implement in longer forms of storytelling, such as novels or feature films.

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Sample Usage:

One example of the Kishōtenketsu Structure in action is in the short story "The Silence" by Yasunari Kawabata. The kishō introduces the protagonist, a young man who visits a shrine during a snowstorm. The shōten develops the protagonist's inner thoughts and emotions, as he reflects on his past and his relationship with his mother. The ten occurs when the protagonist discovers a young woman who has committed suicide at the shrine. The ketsu concludes with the protagonist's emotional response to the discovery, as well as his decision to leave the shrine and return home.

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The Kishōtenketsu Structure is a unique and subtle framework for creating engaging and impactful stories. While it may not work for all writers or stories, it can provide a helpful structure for those who want to explore characters and themes in a more nuanced way. Ultimately, the choice to use the Kishōtenketsu Structure or any other narrative structure will depend on the writer's preferences and the needs of the story being told.

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