By: Shanna Hovley
Photo Credit: Tom van Hoogstraten
It’s no surprise how often novel writing and screenplay writing go hand in hand. Many books on writing both are used interchangeably. Save the Cat! The Last Book on Screenwriting You’ll Ever Need by Blake Snyder and the Anatomy of Story 22 Steps to Becoming a Master Storyteller by John Truby are some favorites recommended by members of my personal critique group. Story structure is one of the most logical connections between the two art forms. After all, both are in the business of telling engaging stories.
But what visual elements can novelists steal from the filmmaking field?
When we create a world for our readers, we are creating a visual experience for their minds. We want them to see the world, know the smells, and feel the texture of their clothes. An exceptional author will use those same details as extensions of character, plot, and setting.
Every Frame a Painting is an excellent Youtube channel with dozens of videos on filmmaking. You’ll watch In Praise of Chairs. Do it. Right now. That’s the assignment.
Watched it? Good.
When I was a kid, I had a friend who, when we went to their house, we weren’t allowed in one of the rooms. The reason being the pristine, white couches. Their mother was proud of those couches and didn’t want them to get dirty. Rarely used. Never sat on, at least by little, dirty me. Instead, when in that room, we’d sit on the floor (carpet that was also white).
Now, when you’re worldbuilding, think about the chairs. Do your characters sit on hand-carved, family heirloom, wooden chairs? Do they sit on woven mats? Do they sit on uncomfortable plastic? How do they sit? Why are they sitting? Are they able to sit?
Photo Credit: Zhu Hongshi
One of the most fascinating elements of worldbuilding is the presentation of a character’s normal. You’re probably completely sick of thinking about chairs, so expand it out further. How do they crack an egg for an omelet? Who taught them to tie their shoes? Why won’t they step on cracks? What are the normal things in this world? How are they different from our normal? How are they the same?
Now take those elements and weave them into your story. Like Fredo struggling in the chair while claiming to be the big brother who takes care of his little brother, use those elements to bring your story and plot to life.
If you need help identifying elements in your worldbuilding that need more life and purpose, talk to your editor about identifying those elements for you. If you don’t currently have an editor, send me an email and get on my list.
“Writing is the art of applying the ass to the seat.” Dorothy Parker
Photo Credit: Tom van Hoogstraten and Zhu Hongshi
Video Credit: Every Frame a Painting (Tony Zhou)