Mythic Impact
“The struggle for
human dignity is one of humankind’s basic conflicts.” Ronald B. Tobias
For any story to have impact it needs to touch at least one
seed of: basic needs, kindred spirits, compassion, justice, and many more themes
that equal a timeless quality.
Why? That is a basic story question that must be answered
every time to have a satisfactory ending. And it is a question each person
struggles with personally in varying concerns throughout a lifetime. Throughout
eras and history and science and faith.
Tobias says that theme is your inertial guidance system. However, to have impact, it needs to
go deeper than a surface answer, especially ones that may only be plot devices.
Even when the subject is a lighthearted comedy or romance the feelings, and
questions, and answers, need to have real substance.
This is one reason I think why some considered poorly written novels
and cheesy movies outvote critical reviews for popularity. Their heart has an
essence that resonates in spite of, and maybe because of, many flaws. Readers
and viewers identify.
The movie The Princess
Bride was originally not a box-office success; yet it went on to develop a
huge following when released to home videos. Many fans can quote the movie
almost line by line and, according to wikipedia, a BBC film critic considers it
a model to which similar films should aspire.
The Harry Potter
series upended the publishing world with both positive and negative commentary.
There didn’t seem to be any middle ground when it first launched.
From a serious viewpoint, one biblical prophet challenges
his listeners with a timeless statement, “He
has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you, But
to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8
Impact=Timeless. Seed fiction and non-fiction narratives
with mystery, yearning, truth, hope, imagination, creativity; then add inspiration,
memory, potential, action, and courage as genre appropriate. Impact=heart and
mind and soul as unforgettable.
Share: What does
your heart most desire in a story?
Read deep,
marcy
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