I’ve not always been an avid reader. Nor have I always been an avid writer. However, there has always been one thing that captivated me, and that’s the power in understanding story structure.

And whether it’s a book, or a movie the stories have remained with me for life. All while some have completely vanished from the recesses of my mind. I’m guessing you’ve had similar experiences, but have you ever stopped to wonder why?

The fact is there’s a real science behind the art of storytelling which has been honed across millennia. But the secret lies in understanding the basic architecture of a story and, in particular, a story’s structure.

In this article, I’m going to share my own journey of discovery and path into the world of story structure. Along with this, I’ll explain how this understanding has transformed my reading experience.

Whether you’re a casual reader, or bookworm, understanding the key elements will deepen your appreciation of the stories you love. Additionally, it can help uncovering little golden nuggets within your future reads.

The Hidden Framework Behind Every Great Story

Every story, from the classic novel has a framework—like ‘In Watermelon Sugar’, by Richard Brautigan. Even the modern page turner has built its structural foundations. This helps guide its readers on an emotional journey, thus captivating them in the process.

Let’s explore these foundational elements of a compelling story which resonates with us best.

The Power of Purpose

A great story isn’t merely a series of events strung together; it’s an entity driven predominantly by a central purpose or theme. For the reader, discover this purpose ultimately enhances their understanding and enjoyment of the book.

For example, when I first read “Journey to the End of the Night’’ by Louis Ferdinand Celine, I realised it was more than just a cynical—even hate-fuelled—narrative.

There was so much more to the story that equated to the sum of all its parts as it covered themes of disillusionment, the absurdity of war, a critique of colonialism and the human nature.

Every scene was filled with biting analysis of these subjects which are masterfully summarised—at the end of the story—by the metaphor of ‘life’s journey’ being likened to a journey through the night.

·      Readers tip: When you’re reading, ask yourself, what are the bigger, underlying ideas the story is aiming to explore. Take notes and enlighten yourself with the literary depths you’re able to discover.

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Story Arcs and Narratives

A well-structured story almost begs you to follow it through the page-turning highs and lows that keep us turning the pages well into the night. Perhaps my favourite example of this is Paul Auster’s “Timbuktu”. He actually uses a very unique story structure, told through the perspective of a dog, Mr Bones. It unfolds in a linear fashion, only to be broken up by flashbacks, exploring the aspects of loyalty and mortality, revealing the bond between humans and their dogs.

·      Reader’s tip: Pay particular attention to your own feelings as you pour through a book. Identify the emotional peaks and troughs; they’re carefully designed and placed to keep you engaged and invested in the character.

5 Key Elements of Compelling Stories

Understanding the key elements will help you appreciate the craftsmanship behind your favourite books.

1.        The ‘What if’ Question

Great stories start out with a compelling question, often providing the writer with a springboard for their imagination and helping them craft a compelling narrative.

For example:

·      What if a boy discovered that he was a wizard (Harry Potter); or If you could see all the lives you ever lived (The Midnight Library).

·      Readers Tip: Try and identify the central question in your current read. It often reveals the heart of the story and its gripping conflicts.

2.        Complex Characters

Memorable stories feature characters which feel so real (read ‘flawed, complex, but equally capable of growth’). This is purposeful and so we can more than picture them.

·      Reader’s Tip: Look for characters, or character traits that either surprise you, or go against the expected norms and you’ll often discover their complexities are reflective of the stories depth.

3.        The Inciting Incident

This is where the main action of the story really kicks in as we depart the status quo of the main character’s life. This disruption turns the story on it’s head, early in the story, and sets everything in motion.

·      Reader’s Tip: Recognising the inciting incident will help you to better understand the stories direction and the main character’s motivations.

4.        Rising Action and Climax

As stories progress, the stakes should naturally rise, and the risks become more significant. And, as they lead towards a pivotal moment, everything comes to a critical juncture.

Eg; in the battle at Hogwarts in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows”, we see the point of the climax drawing together all the threads finally weave together and thus creating maximum impact for the story.

·      Reader’s Tip: Recognise how each challenge a character faces become more and more significant as the tension builds towards climax.

5.        Resolution and Themes

How a story ends can, and often does, leave a lasting impression. More importantly, we see central themes of the story fall into place. Take “The Kite Runner” for instance and see how the stories resolution beautifully highlights the themes of redemption and the enduring impact of our life choices.

·      Reader’s Tip: Upon finishing a book, reflect on how the ending culminates all of the stories central themes. See if you gain a better understanding of the stories true meaning.

Enhancing Your Reading Experience

Story structure isn’t something that diminishes the true magic of storytelling. In fact, it serves to bolster the story and create a greater connection with the readers, much like the brushstrokes of a great painting, or a photo composition. You know all these things exist, and yet you’re still swept away by its magnificence.

Here’s a few ways to apply this knowledge to your reading:

1.        Maintain a reading journal: Note your observations on structure. Eg, how and where the inciting incident and climax occurs.

2.        Discuss it with others: readers circles are a fantastic way to share your insights and to hear other people’s perspectives on the story you’ve just read.

3.        Reread your favourites: Here, you might discover new layers to the story and a deeper meaning you might have missed on an earlier read.

4.        Explore diverse genres:  Different genres often dance with story structure in a different way and broadening your reading horizons can deepen your appreciation for storytelling techniques.

Conclusion

Stories have the great power to transport us, teach us and to enrich our lives by touching our hearts. Understanding the underlying structures behind such stories helps to deepen our appreciation for the craftwork in the books we love to read.

So, the next time you’re immersed in a great book, take a moment to reflect on the architecture that’s pinning the story together. What questions are the writers asking you? How does that guide your emotions? And what truths does it reveal? Here, you will gladly see how structure amplifies the magic of storytelling.

Finally, what’s your favourite book, and how do you feel its structure amplifies its impact?

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Happy reading!