Intention & Obstacle

Insights on how to craft engaging stories by focusing on the fundamental elements of intention and obstacle. This framework helps writers create narratives that captivate audiences across various mediums.

The Core Principle: Intention and Obstacle

• At all times, the audience should know:

  1. What the main character wants (intention)
  2. What's standing in their way (obstacle)

• This creates tension and keeps the audience engaged

• Applies to both high-stakes and everyday situations

Key Elements of Effective Storytelling

1. Clear intention

   • What does the character want?
   • Why do they want it?
   • How badly do they want it?
   • What happens if they don't get it?

2. Compelling obstacle

   • Who or what is in the way?
   • Why is it challenging to overcome?

3. Emotional stakes

   • Make the audience believe the outcome matters to the character
   • Even low-stakes moments can be compelling if the emotional impact is clear

4. The 5-second moment of change

   • Every story revolves around a brief moment of transformation
   • This is when the character overcomes the obstacle or changes their perspective

Techniques for Better Storytelling

1. Use specific, relatable details

   • Paint a vivid picture in the audience's mind
   • Focus on sensory information and concrete examples

2. Create surprise and subvert expectations

   • Unexpected twists keep the audience engaged
   • Use humor to break tension and maintain interest

3. Frame ideas in unique ways

   • Connect seemingly unrelated concepts
   • Use analogies and metaphors to make complex ideas more accessible

4. Write like you talk

   • Maintain a conversational tone
   • Use simple language and avoid unnecessary jargon

5. Edit ruthlessly

   • Take breaks between writing and editing
   • Focus on removing "rocks" that impede the flow of ideas