Storytelling by Keith Coleman

Author:Keith Coleman [Coleman, Keith]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-01-02T05:00:00+00:00

The example we mentioned about human flesh comprises a majority of these elements. A majority of people find cannibalism repulsive. It is out of the ordinary behavior for a person to consume human flesh. It is a highly sensational and controversial matter. There are tension and suspense (someone has been killed obviously). You want to know about this mysterious person who is consuming human flesh.

I am not implying that drama always equals disturbing, shocking, sensational and controversial content. It can also be a small detail such as whether an employee who pretended to be loyal yet went on a stealing rampage throughout the office was finally caught. Do you get the idea? Build drama around your stories to make them more interesting.

There has to be some sort of turmoil, struggle or challenge that leads to a more positive and hopeful resolution in the end. Drama makes the other person want to listen to you further. “I met a terrible accident a few years ago, and was unable to walk.” Now the listener is captivated because he/she wants to know how you overcame the situation. Conflict takes your story ahead. Compare these two narratives.

“I completed my graduation with top honors and took up a well-paying job in the banking sector. Owing to my diligence and hard work, I was quickly promoted to the position of an assistant manager. Then, I became a manager owing to my leadership, people development and mentoring skills. Later, I was promoted to the position of a senior manager. Today, due to my people skills, hard work and sincerity, I am General Manager of business banking.”

“I completed my graduation with top honors and was employed by a top banking for a much-coveted position. Soon, owing to my hard-work and diligence, I was promoted to the post of an assistant manager. This was followed by two quick promotions to the level of manager and senior manager. I was slated to be at the top of my career when I lost my limbs in a freak accident. I was unable to walk for more than a couple of years. Life came to a standstill. But not the one to give up, I picked up the pieces of my life once again. With the help of artificial limbs, I began walking and going to work again. It was tough in the beginning. Sitting for long was a challenge. I began to feel depressed and irritable. However, my co-workers were a huge support. They supported, encouraged and inspired me to do my best. Here I am today, General Manager, business banking.”

Which of the two stories has a greater impact or is more moving? Obviously the second one! The story has a clear arc. There are highs and lows in the narrative. It starts on a positive note, followed by a tragedy or personal conflict, finally ending with a resolution. It takes the story ahead or gives it the so-called a ‘twist in the tale.’ The former doesn’t have a narrative arc. It is flat, an all-positive story that is devoid of challenges or conflicts.

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