Introduction
In today's world, stories surround us at every turn. From the podcasts we listen to on our commute to the TV shows we binge-watch at home, narratives shape our daily lives. But storytelling isn't just about entertainment – it's a fundamental part of how we communicate and understand the world around us. Whether we're making excuses for missed deadlines, gossiping with friends, or crafting professional presentations, we're constantly engaged in the art of storytelling.
Given how central stories are to our lives, it's worth taking a closer look at what makes them tick. In "The Science of Storytelling," Will Storr delves into the scientific underpinnings of effective narratives, exploring how our brains process and respond to stories. By understanding these mechanisms, we can learn to craft more compelling and impactful narratives in all areas of our lives.
This book offers a fascinating journey through the human mind, revealing why we're so drawn to certain types of stories and characters. It provides valuable insights for writers, marketers, and anyone interested in the power of narrative. Let's explore the key ideas that Storr presents, and discover how we can harness the science of storytelling to captivate our audiences.
Our Brains Are Wired for Stories
At the heart of Storr's exploration is a surprising revelation: the reality we experience is, in many ways, a story created by our brains. This doesn't mean we're living in a complete fantasy, but rather that our perception of the world is heavily influenced by the narratives our minds construct.
The Brain as a Storyteller
Our brains are constantly working to make sense of the world around us, often filling in gaps or creating explanations where none exist. This tendency can lead to misinterpretations, like mistaking a bush for a person when walking alone at night. In that moment, we don't just think we see a person – our brain actually constructs that image for us.
This storytelling function of our brain extends to how we view ourselves. We tend to cast ourselves as the heroes of our own life stories, often reconfiguring past events to fit this narrative. For example, we might justify questionable actions by convincing ourselves that the circumstances made them necessary or even righteous. This explains why even people who have committed serious crimes often rate themselves as above average in qualities like morality or kindness.
Creating Order from Chaos
Another key aspect of our brain's storytelling function is its desire to create order and meaning. We naturally seek to organize our experiences and memories into coherent narratives with clear cause-and-effect relationships. This tendency is so strong that we often perceive connections and meanings where none actually exist.
Storr illustrates this point with an fascinating example from early cinema. Two Soviet filmmakers conducted an experiment where they showed audiences a series of films. Each film consisted of an actor's expressionless face juxtaposed with various unrelated scenes, like a bowl of soup or a woman in a coffin. Despite the lack of any intended emotional expression from the actor, viewers praised his performance, describing his thoughtful look over the soup or his mournful expression at the coffin. Their brains had created a story to connect these unrelated images.
Understanding Others Through Stories
Our brains don't just create stories about ourselves and our experiences – they're also constantly trying to understand the minds of others. This drive to comprehend other people is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history. As humans began to form more complex societies, the ability to understand and predict others' behavior became crucial for survival and success.
This urge to understand others is so strong that we often project human qualities onto inanimate objects. Have you ever yelled at a door after stubbing your toe on it, as if it had intentionally wronged you? This is your brain's storytelling function at work, creating a narrative where even objects have motivations and intentions.
Stories provide us with a safe and engaging way to satisfy this deep-seated need to understand others. When we engage with a story, we're given the opportunity to step into someone else's mind, to see the world from their perspective. This is why we find narratives so compelling – they feed our brain's constant hunger for insight into other minds.
The Appeal of Flawed Characters
While our brains cast us as the heroes of our own stories, we're particularly drawn to flawed characters in the narratives we consume. This seemingly paradoxical preference has deep psychological roots and plays a crucial role in how we engage with stories.
The Safe Space of Fiction
In our own lives, we often struggle to recognize or confront our flaws. Our brains work hard to maintain our self-image as the hero, which can make it difficult to acknowledge our shortcomings. However, when we encounter flawed characters in stories, we're given a safe space to explore these imperfections.
Through fictional characters, we can examine flaws and mistakes without the threat to our own self-image. This allows us to engage with complex moral and emotional situations in a way that feels both safe and stimulating. It's a form of psychological exploration that can be both entertaining and enlightening.
The Origins of Character Flaws
Storr explains that many character flaws can be traced back to beliefs formed in early life. These beliefs shape our understanding of how the world works and our place in it. Cultural influences play a significant role in this process. For example, a character growing up in Victorian England might internalize values of composure and self-discipline, while one raised during the American pioneer era might prioritize personal freedom and individual ambition.
Once these core beliefs are established, we tend to cling to them tenaciously. Confronting ideas that challenge our worldview can be deeply unsettling – so much so that it can trigger a physiological response similar to a physical threat. Storr cites a study where people were shown evidence contradicting their political beliefs. Brain scans revealed that their neural response was similar to someone encountering a dangerous animal in the wild.
Flaws and Goals
One of the most compelling aspects of flawed characters is how their imperfections interact with their goals. In well-crafted stories, a character's flaws often serve as obstacles to achieving their desires. This creates tension and conflict that drive the narrative forward.
Storr provides an example from Kazuo Ishiguro's novel "The Remains of the Day." The protagonist, Stevens, is an English butler whose deep-seated belief in emotional restraint and traditional values clashes with the changing world around him. His rigid adherence to these principles not only prevents him from pursuing a romantic relationship but also hinders his ability to adapt to his new, more modern employer.
This interplay between flaws and goals is a key element of engaging storytelling. Humans are naturally drawn to goal-oriented narratives – we like to see characters striving towards something. Storr notes that an analysis of New York Times bestsellers found that novels on the list used goal-oriented words like "do," "need," and "want" twice as often as those that didn't make the list.
By creating characters whose flaws complicate their pursuit of goals, storytellers tap into our innate interest in problem-solving and our desire to see how others navigate challenges. This keeps us invested in the story, eager to see how the character will overcome (or be overcome by) their flaws.
Crafting Compelling Characters
Storr emphasizes that while a good story idea is important, a truly engaging plot flows naturally from well-developed characters. It's the characters' unique combination of traits, flaws, and beliefs that drive the action and keep readers invested. Let's explore the key elements that go into crafting compelling characters.
The Theory of Control
At the heart of a well-drawn character is what Storr calls their "theory of control" – the set of beliefs and behaviors they think will allow them to navigate the world successfully. This theory of control is often flawed, based on misconceptions or past experiences that may no longer apply.
For example, in "The Remains of the Day," Stevens the butler has a theory of control based on emotional restraint and unwavering devotion to his duties. This served him well for much of his career, but becomes a source of conflict when he encounters situations that require more emotional openness or flexibility.
A character's theory of control is put to the test when they face unexpected changes or challenges. How they respond to these tests – whether they cling to their old beliefs or adapt to new circumstances – forms the core of their character arc and drives the plot forward.
Personality Traits
Beyond their theory of control, characters are defined by their personality traits. Storr references the "Big Five" personality traits used in psychology:
- Conscientiousness
- Neuroticism
- Openness
- Agreeableness
- Extraversion
Each character will fall somewhere on the spectrum for each of these traits, and this combination will influence how they behave and react to situations. For instance, a character high in both conscientiousness and neuroticism might be a diligent worker but prone to anxiety about their performance. Someone high in openness and agreeableness might excel in roles requiring adaptability and empathy.
By considering where your character falls on each of these scales, you can create a more nuanced and realistic personality. This, in turn, will help you predict how they might react in different situations, making their actions feel more authentic and consistent.
Misunderstandings and Conflict
One of the most realistic – and dramatically useful – traits you can give your characters is a tendency to misunderstand others. Storr points out that in real life, we're surprisingly bad at accurately reading the emotions and intentions of others, even those closest to us. Research suggests we're only about 35% accurate in our interpretations of others' thoughts and feelings.
This propensity for misunderstanding is a rich source of conflict and drama in stories. In Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice," for example, much of the plot revolves around misunderstandings between characters. Mr. Darcy misjudges Jane's feelings for Mr. Bingley, leading him to advise against their marriage and setting off a chain of events that drives the story.
By allowing your characters to misinterpret each other's actions and motivations, you create opportunities for conflict, growth, and eventual resolution. This reflects the real human experience of navigating relationships and social situations, making your story more relatable and engaging.
Building a Compelling Plot
With well-crafted characters in place, the next step is to develop a plot that will keep readers engaged from beginning to end. Storr offers several insights into what makes a story captivating and how to structure your narrative for maximum impact.
The Central Question: "Who is this character, really?"
At the heart of any engaging story is the question of who the characters truly are. This ties back to our brain's deep-seated desire to understand others. A good story should constantly prod us to wonder about the true nature of its characters.
Storr uses the opening of the classic film "Citizen Kane" as an example. The movie begins with an elderly man on his deathbed, uttering a single word – "Rosebud" – before dropping a snow globe. Immediately, the audience is intrigued. Who is this man? What does "Rosebud" mean? This mystery about the character's true nature hooks us from the start.
To maintain this intrigue throughout your story, you need to put your characters in situations that reveal different aspects of their personality. Each scene should peel back another layer, giving the audience new insights into who the character really is.
The Selfless vs. Selfish Dilemma
One of the most fundamental questions we ask about others is whether they are selfless or selfish. This dichotomy is at the heart of much human interaction and storytelling. Storr points out that even in our everyday conversations, a significant portion of our gossip revolves around discussing how others have either upheld or violated the moral codes of our social groups.
In your story, you can explore this theme by putting your characters in situations where they must choose between self-interest and the greater good. How they respond to these dilemmas will reveal their true nature and keep the audience engaged.
Unexpected Changes and Core Beliefs
Another powerful tool for revealing character and driving plot is to introduce unexpected changes that challenge the character's core beliefs. When a character's fundamental understanding of the world is shaken, it forces them to adapt and grow, creating compelling drama.
Storr uses the film "The Truman Show" as an example. The protagonist, Truman, believes he's living a normal life, but he's actually the unwitting star of a reality TV show. As strange events begin to occur – like a studio light falling from the "sky" – Truman's belief system is challenged, leading to unpredictable behavior and a fascinating character arc.
The Interplay of Surface Plot and Inner Plot
A rich story operates on two levels: the surface plot (the events that are happening) and the inner plot (the character's psychological journey). As external events unfold, they should trigger internal changes in your characters. This interplay between outer action and inner transformation is what gives a story its depth and resonance.
In "The Truman Show," for example, the surface plot involves Truman's growing suspicion about his world and his attempts to uncover the truth. The inner plot, meanwhile, deals with Truman's evolving sense of self and his struggle to assert his autonomy in a world designed to control him.
By carefully crafting both these levels of your plot, you create a story that is not only eventful but also psychologically compelling. Readers will be drawn in by the external action while also becoming emotionally invested in the characters' internal journeys.
Techniques for Engaging the Reader's Brain
Beyond character and plot, Storr discusses several techniques that can make your story more engaging on a neurological level. These methods tap into how our brains process information and create meaning, making your narrative more immersive and memorable.
The Power of Information Gaps
Our brains are naturally curious and love to fill in gaps in information. You can use this tendency to your advantage by strategically withholding certain details, creating a sense of mystery that keeps readers engaged.
Storr cites a study where participants were shown varying numbers of pictures of a person's body parts. Those who saw more pictures became increasingly eager to see the whole person. This demonstrates how giving away just enough information can stimulate curiosity and keep your audience hooked.
In your story, you might reveal information about your characters gradually, leaving readers to wonder about their backgrounds or motivations. Or you could introduce mysterious elements in your plot, encouraging readers to form their own theories about what's really going on.
Effective Dialogue
Good dialogue works on multiple levels, advancing the plot while also revealing character. It should feel natural while also being more focused and purposeful than everyday conversation.
Storr gives an example from the film "Brokeback Mountain." When Jack tells Ennis, "I wish I knew how to quit you," the line conveys plot information (their relationship is troubled) while also revealing character (Jack's conflicted feelings) and subtext (the societal pressures they face).
When crafting dialogue, think about what's being said on the surface, what's being communicated underneath, and what this reveals about the characters and their relationships.
Revealing Character Through Environment
The spaces characters inhabit can tell us a lot about who they are. Descriptions of a character's room, for example, can reveal both how they present themselves to the world and who they are underneath.
Storr suggests looking for "left-behind" items – things a character might not intentionally display but that reveal something about their true nature. A receipt for an embarrassing purchase, for instance, might hint at a secret side of their personality.
By describing these environments without explicit commentary, you allow readers to make their own deductions about the character, engaging their minds more actively in the story.
The Impact of Poetic Language
While it's important not to overdo flowery prose, well-crafted descriptions can significantly enhance the reader's experience. Our brains react strongly to vivid, sensory language, creating a more immersive reading experience.
Metaphors are particularly powerful in this regard. Storr mentions a study where participants who read the phrase "he had a rough day" showed neural activity in brain regions associated with texture, unlike those who read "he had a bad day." This demonstrates how metaphorical language can create a more vivid, multi-sensory experience for the reader.
When describing scenes or emotions in your story, consider using metaphors and similes that engage multiple senses. This can make your writing more evocative and memorable.
The Importance of Status Change
As we near the end of our exploration of Storr's insights, we come to a crucial element that ties many of these concepts together: the role of status in storytelling. Understanding how status operates in human psychology can help you create more compelling narratives.
The Universal Concern with Status
Storr points out that concern with status is not unique to humans – it's observable throughout the animal kingdom. From crickets keeping track of their wins and losses to chimpanzees monitoring the alpha male for signs of weakness, status plays a crucial role in social dynamics.
For humans, status is deeply tied to our sense of well-being. Research has shown that our physical and mental health can be significantly affected by our perceived status within our social groups. This makes status a powerful motivator and a rich source of conflict for storytelling.
The Conflict Between Status and Selflessness
One of the most interesting aspects of status in storytelling is how it often conflicts with societal pressure to act selflessly. We all want to improve or maintain our status, but we're also expected to put others first in many situations. This tension can create compelling internal conflicts for characters.
For example, a character might be faced with a choice between advancing their career (improving their status) and helping a friend in need (acting selflessly). How they navigate this dilemma can reveal a lot about their values and personality.
The Underdog Effect
Storr notes that we tend to see ourselves as underdogs in our own life stories. This perception makes us more likely to root for characters who are struggling against higher-status opponents. It's why "David vs. Goliath" stories are so universally appealing.
You can leverage this tendency by creating situations where your protagonists are pitted against more powerful adversaries. This doesn't always have to be a literal fight – it could be a small business owner competing against a large corporation, or a newcomer challenging established norms in a community.
Status Change as a Catalyst for Character Development
Changes in status can be a powerful tool for driving character development. When a character's status shifts – either up or down – it often forces them to reevaluate their beliefs and behaviors.
Storr uses the example of Shakespeare's "King Lear." When Lear's status as all-powerful king is stripped away by his own daughters, it shatters his belief that everyone acts in his best interest. This dramatic change in status forces Lear to confront harsh truths about himself and the world, driving his character arc.
In your own stories, consider how changes in your characters' status might challenge their worldviews or force them to adapt. A character who suddenly comes into wealth might struggle with their new responsibilities, while one who loses everything might discover inner resources they never knew they had.
The Power of Stories to Change Perspectives
As we conclude our exploration of "The Science of Storytelling," it's worth considering the broader impact that stories can have on our understanding of the world and ourselves.
Stories as Propaganda
Storr makes the provocative suggestion that in a sense, most stories are a form of propaganda. They often contain messages about how we should behave and warnings about the consequences of transgressing social norms.
This is most obvious in children's stories and religious texts, which often have clear moral lessons. But even more complex narratives for adults often contain implicit messages about values and behavior.
While this might sound manipulative, it's important to remember that this "propaganda" can be used for positive ends. Stories have the power to challenge harmful beliefs, promote empathy, and inspire positive change.
The Transportation Effect
One of the most powerful aspects of storytelling is its ability to transport us into another person's perspective. When we're deeply engrossed in a story – so much so that we might miss our bus stop – we're more open to having our attitudes and beliefs changed.
Storr cites the example of autobiographical stories by former slaves in the United States, such as "The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass." These personal accounts helped change white attitudes about slavery by allowing readers to see the world through the eyes of those who had experienced its horrors.
This "transportation" effect is what makes storytelling such a powerful tool for fostering empathy and understanding. By crafting stories that draw readers in and allow them to experience different perspectives, we can challenge prejudices and broaden worldviews.
Stories as Safe Spaces for Exploration
Finally, Storr suggests that stories act as a form of play, allowing us to experience changes and challenges in a safe environment. When we engage with a story, we can explore difficult situations and their consequences without having to live through them ourselves.
For example, a thriller about the psychological toll of keeping a dark secret allows us to experience the tension and consequences vicariously. We can learn from the characters' choices without having to make those choices ourselves.
This aspect of storytelling makes it a valuable tool for personal growth and understanding. Through stories, we can explore different ways of being, confront our fears, and imagine new possibilities for ourselves and our world.
Conclusion
"The Science of Storytelling" offers a fascinating look at why stories captivate us and how we can harness this knowledge to create more compelling narratives. By understanding the psychological and neurological basis of our love for stories, we can craft tales that not only entertain but also enlighten and transform.
The key elements of a powerful story include:
- Well-developed characters with flaws and unique worldviews
- A plot that challenges these characters and reveals their true nature
- Strategic use of information gaps to maintain curiosity
- Vivid, metaphorical language that engages the senses
- Exploration of status changes and their impact on characters
- The potential to transport readers into new perspectives
Whether you're a writer looking to improve your craft, a business professional aiming to communicate more effectively, or simply someone interested in the power of narrative, Storr's insights offer valuable tools for understanding and creating impactful stories.
In a world where we're constantly bombarded with information, the ability to tell compelling stories is more valuable than ever. By mastering the science of storytelling, we can create narratives that cut through the noise, connect with others on a deep level, and potentially change how people see the world.
So the next time you sit down to write a story, give a presentation, or even just share an anecdote with friends, remember the principles outlined in this book. Consider your characters' flaws and motivations, think about how you can create intrigue through information gaps, and don't be afraid to use vivid language and explore shifts in status. By applying these insights, you can craft stories that not only entertain but also resonate on a deeper level with your audience.
Ultimately, the power of storytelling lies in its ability to help us understand ourselves and others better. In a world that often seems divided, stories offer a bridge to empathy and shared understanding. They allow us to step into someone else's shoes, to see the world through different eyes, and perhaps to come away changed. And that, perhaps, is the greatest magic of all.