Writing Through Trauma

Writing Through Trauma

Life doesn’t always go to plan. My father always insisted that the best stories came from times that were not planned, those moments or events that changed the course. No one shares anecdotes about things that turn out perfectly. Those stories would be far too boring....
Special Notice for Subscribers

Special Notice for Subscribers

Dear Friend, Remember me? I know it’s been a while since you’ve heard from Figments & Fables and I apologize for that. Thank you so much for supporting Figments & Fables, especially during my extended sabbatical. I’m humbled so many of you remained...
The Science of Story

The Science of Story

Stories are powerful. We all want to know what happened next, how it felt to stare down danger or fall in love or fail spectacularly. It’s exactly those stories that help us connect and feel.

This blog could be like any other out there, sharing the power of story. But what happens if I tell you why stories matter to me? What if I let you into one of my stories before I give you facts on why stories work? Let’s see.

How to Write a Treatment for Scripts and Screenplays

How to Write a Treatment for Scripts and Screenplays

A treatment is a summary of your script or screenplay idea. They are used for a variety of purposes, but mostly to pitch an idea and approach for a film or video. Writers typically use treatments for corporate work, influencer scripts, YouTubers, documentary films, short runs, and other quick pitches. They are the fastest way to convey your idea for visual or audio formats.

Story Problems: Four Major Issues Writers Face, Part III of III

Story Problems: Four Major Issues Writers Face, Part II of III

Mary Sues are perfect in whatever they do. They possess skills at an unusually high level with little or no effort required to acquire those talents. They never have to try and never fail. They are the “chosen ones” or the best at what they need to excel in their world or story. They are beloved by all for no obvious reason. They are simply desired. They are attractive, but lack personality in most cases. But they do have power even if they don’t have to work to achieve their goal.

Story Problems: Four Major Issues Writers Face, Part III of III

Story Problems: Four Major Issues Writers Face, Part I of III

Identifying and avoiding story-related issues in your writing that weaken the experience and characters. While the following list is not exhaustive, it does reflect some of the most glaring issues facing stories today. Ignore them at your peril. Three are character based and the final issue affects every aspect of story. This is part one of a three-part series. More to come.