Monthly Archives: May 2012

Good Intentions Between Characters

Posted on May 18, 2012 by Sheldon

If we step into the story and see a misguided character doing hurtful things to others and even to ourselves, from OUR life experience we determine that character must be stopped. Perhaps we argue with them, try to educate them, … Continue reading →

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Character Life Experience

Posted on May 17, 2012 by Sheldon

As we are driven by life experiences and since the experiences of each of us are unique, it is no wonder we come into conflict and confrontation over most everything we can think of. Stories are about the incompatibility of … Continue reading →

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What, Exactly, Is Theme?

Posted on May 16, 2012 by Sheldon

It seems every author is aware of theme, but try to find one who can define it! Most will tell you theme has something to do with the mood or feel of a story. But how does that differ from … Continue reading →

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Using Dramatica Example Stories

Posted on May 16, 2012 by Melanie Anne Phillips

Dramatica Pro ships with 68 complete example stories ranging from “Hamlet” to “Star Wars” and including books, movies, teleplays and stage plays. Each of the Dramatica Story Example files loads up in Dramatica as if you had written it in … Continue reading →

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Creating Characters from Plot

Posted on May 15, 2012 by Sheldon

Introduction If you already have a story idea, it is a simple matter to create a whole cast of characters that will grow out of your plot. In this lesson we’re going to lay out a method of developing characters … Continue reading →

Posted in Building Characters, Characters, Practical Tips | Comments Off

3 Act vs. 4 Act Structure

Posted on May 14, 2012 by Sheldon

The following is a transcript from an online class on the Dramatica theory of story hosted by its co-creator, Melanie Anne Phillips signed on as Dramatica: William S1 : After working so long in 3-act structure, I’m unclear on Dramatica’s … Continue reading →

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Indy… Why does the floor move?

Posted on May 14, 2012 by Melanie Anne Phillips

A Dramatica user recently noticed that Elements (the smallest, most detailed story points in Dramatica) are in different arrangements at the bottom of each of the four Dormains.   In other words, he was wondering why the “floor” moved.  (Click here … Continue reading →

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