The Blueprint of Great Storytelling: The Story Engineering Approach

The Story Engineering narrative framework was developed by Larry Brooks, a successful novelist and writing instructor. The framework is based on the idea that a successful story must have a strong underlying structure, much like a building needs a solid foundation to stand. In this blog post, we will explore the Story Engineering framework, its advantages and drawbacks, and some examples of its usage.

‍

The Story Engineering Framework:

1. Concept: The concept is the seed of the story, the basic idea that forms the foundation for the entire narrative.
2. Character: The character is the protagonist, the person whose journey is the focus of the story. The character must have a compelling backstory, clear goals and motivations, and obstacles to overcome.
3. Theme: The theme is the underlying message or meaning of the story, the idea that the author wants to communicate to the reader.
4. Story Structure: The story structure is the framework that supports the story, including the plot, the pacing, and the narrative arc.
5. Scene Execution: Scene execution is the craft of writing each individual scene, including setting, dialogue, action, and description.
6. Writing Voice: Writing voice is the author's unique style and tone, which should be consistent throughout the story.

Advantages and Drawbacks:

One advantage of the Story Engineering framework is its focus on the underlying structure of the story, which can help writers to create a cohesive and engaging narrative. The framework provides clear guidelines for each element of the story, from concept to writing voice, and can be a helpful tool for ensuring that the story flows smoothly and effectively.

‍

However, one drawback of the Story Engineering framework is that it may feel restrictive to some writers, who may prefer a more intuitive or free-form approach to storytelling. Additionally, the framework may not work for all types of stories or writing styles.

‍

Sample Usage:

One example of the Story Engineering framework in action is in the novel The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins. The concept is a woman who becomes obsessed with a couple she sees from the train every day. The character is Rachel, a divorced alcoholic who becomes embroiled in the couple's lives. The theme is the idea that appearances can be deceiving and the dangers of making assumptions.

‍

The story structure includes a clear narrative arc with well-timed plot twists and revelations. The scene execution is well-crafted, with detailed descriptions of the setting and nuanced dialogue. The writing voice is consistent throughout the story, with a suspenseful and atmospheric tone.

‍

The Story Engineering framework is a useful tool for creating a cohesive and engaging narrative. While it may not work for all writers or stories, it can provide a helpful structure for those who need guidance in their writing process. Ultimately, the choice to use the Story Engineering framework or any other narrative structure will depend on the writer's preferences and the needs of the story being told.

‍