Robert McKee's Story

How to write a good story?

Writing’s an art form based on principles, not rules. Don’t generate an unstructured whirlpool of sentences. Using key concepts and artistic flare create something worthy of exhibition.

Is there a recipe for success?

Studying the current market, it’s difficult to isolate and associate common denominators with sensational triumphs or epic failures.

Use archetypical concepts. Stereotypes are oversimplified; they’re abortive when creating the authentic, in-depth characters required to engage an audience. Pride and Prejudice, for instance, could’ve easily fallen victim to stereotypical roles, it was differentiated through the strong-will of Elizabeth and the dynamics of her relationship with Mr Darcy.

‘Word Economy’-redundant words are clutter often detracting from the point. Its essential stories don’t lose their impetuous. Thorough editing, considering angles, prioritising points will eventually produce work ready to print.

Always think of your audience.  What journey will you take them on? What emotions will it evoke? What conclusions will they draw?

Your greatest asset is you! You’re unique! Be original! Write with your own voice! Write from your own perspective, your thoughts are individualistic.

Use Narrative Structures as a blue print, combined with your own imaginative content and you can write a credible story.