The Power of Three

You could argue that three is the most powerful number in the world. It is found throughout literature, music, and movies. It is the reason Mozart’s music, filled with major and minor thirds, soars. It is what governs photographic composition. And it forms the basis for most story structures.

There is a reason there are three bears, three little pigs and three billy goats gruff. It is why the line “Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” flows so beautifully. And why we learn our ABCs and 123s.

The human mind is programmed to recall a limited number of things easily. Three appears to be the ideal number. More than that and our brains cannot process the information as easily.

Now some argue this is because of religion, that the “three” refers to the holy trinity and takes its power from that. But it’s power is not limited to Christianity. We find it everywhere, in Greek mythology with Zeus, Hades and Poseidon. In Egypt with the pyramids and their trio of gods. Even the Masons believed in the power of the triad. It is throughout most mythologies, pantheons and doctrines.

But it extends beyond belief too. We see the power of three in everything. In “Stop, drop and roll”, “Lights, camera, action” and “Veni, vidi, vici.” In the Three Musketeers, Three Amigos and Three Stooges.

When it comes to writing, it pays to rely on the power of three. There is an accepted truth that three items are funnier and more interesting than other combinations. It is why jokes follow a standard structure based on three: A rabbi, priest and pastor walked into a bar…

Many (if not most) stories are broken into three main parts or acts—the exposition, mid-point and climax. Some even argue that Shakespeare, known for his five act play structure, can be reduced to these three basic elements.

What I know is that using three items sounds better. When I write a speech or script, I keep the rule of three in mind because it sets up a better rhythm and cadence than two or four items do. It also allows for a three act structure and follows the classic five paragraph essay format of introduction, three sections and a conclusion. Three is more poetic.

There is a Latin phrase that states: “omne trim perfectum” or everything that comes in threes is perfect. Who are we to argue with that?

When you are writing, try to harness the power of three in story structure (three act format), in presenting facts or arguments, and within your sentences themselves. Pay attention to how three items affects the flow of your sentences. How it changes the rhythm, cadence and flow. How the three words you choose to include shifts, changes and sets your sentence structure.

If you are not convinced yet, look at how often the rule of three can be found in literature, television shows and films. It is amazing how pervasive it is. The ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Harry, Hermione and Ron. The Doctor, Amy and Rory.

There is a reason three is the favored structure. It works. Trying putting it to work for you.