10 characteristics of a story that works
Creating a compelling narrative is no small feat. Several essential elements make a story enjoyable to read and commercially viable. Here are ten characteristics of a story that works, based on insights from David Mamet and Shawn Coyne’s manuscript analysis process known as The Story Grid.
The genre is clear
The first characteristic is that the genre of the story should be clear. Readers come to a book with certain expectations based on its genre. Therefore, the story should meet these expectations by following the conventions of its genre but in novel and intriguing ways.
The story features all obligatory scenes for its genre
In addition to following genre conventions, a good story should contain all the obligatory scenes required for its genre. These scenes are the ones that readers anticipate and look forward to, and they should be surprising and engaging.
The point of view is clear and consistent
Another essential characteristic of a successful story is a clear and consistent point of view. This helps to establish a connection between the reader and the characters and ensures the narrative remains coherent and easy to follow.
The protagonist has a clear object of desire
The protagonist, or main character, should have a clear object of desire. This desire drives the protagonist's actions and fuels the plot, motivating the character's journey.
The story structure is solid
A well-crafted story should have a clear beginning hook, middle build, and ending payoff. This structure helps to engage the reader, build suspense, and provide a satisfying conclusion.
Scenes must turn
For a story to be dynamic and engaging, scenes must turn, meaning there is a change in the dynamics of the situation or relationship. This change can be positive or negative, but it must drive the narrative forward and keep the reader invested.
The story progressively complicates
As the story unfolds, the situation should progressively complicate, increasing tension and suspense and raising the stakes for the protagonist.
The hook must be paid off satisfyingly
Any hook or intrigue set up at the beginning of the story should be satisfyingly paid off by the end. This ensures readers are rewarded for their investment in the narrative.
The story captures the 15 crucial movements
A good story should successfully capture the 15 crucial movements in the narrative that drive character development and plot progression.
The character undergoes significant change
By the end of the story, the protagonist should be a completely different person, having undergone a significant and irrevocable change. This character development is a crucial aspect of a compelling narrative.
Answering the core question: Will it sell?
When an agent or editor considers your story, this is the core question they’re asking. It’s helpful to keep this in sight. These ten guiding principles help create a narrative that is captivating to read and commercially viable. A story that excites and satisfies a large number of readers has the potential to generate profits, securing a return for the author's efforts. Furthermore, a compelling story can help establish an author's reputation, encouraging readers to return for subsequent works. Therefore, understanding and incorporating these characteristics can significantly enhance a story's commercial success.
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References
- Coyne, Shawn. 2015. The Story Grid. New York, NY: Black Irish Entertainment.
