July 12, 2023

Revolutionizing Storytelling: The Power of Narrative Study and AI

Unleashing Intentional Storytelling Through Subtxt's Two Decades of Knowledge and the Latest in Large Language Model Technology

As our understanding of technology evolves, so does our approach to storytelling. Recent developments have been seismic, with innovations shifting how we conceive, narrate, and experience stories. A key player in this evolution has been Subtxt, a platform built on two decades of narrative study and curated examples. This treasure trove of storytelling knowledge is now being integrated with state-of-the-art AI large language models (LLMs) to supercharge story development. With this approach, we can achieve a new concept:

Intentional Storytelling

Intentional storytelling is not just about putting words together. It's about conveying your core idea with a laser-focused narrative that impacts your audience profoundly. With Subtxt and the power of AI, you can now harness the power of thousands of narratives and create your unique, intentional story. Let's explore how.

Step 1: Formulate Your Story Idea

The first step of your storytelling journey is to come up with your story idea. This initial step will anchor your entire narrative, setting the tone and direction for everything that follows. Whether it's a heartwarming tale of redemption, an epic space adventure, or an insightful exploration of societal issues, your story idea is the foundation upon which you'll build.

For this story idea, we simply opened up Muse, navigated to the Story Idea section, opened up the Brainstorming AI feature and entered "security guard from magic mountain."

One click of the button and we were presented with a quick story logline which we added to the Story Idea.

A logline like this is not enough for a complete story, at present--it's only a tale. To remedy that, we call on Subtxt to help us break out the Four Throughlines from this initial concept.

Again, this is a one-button process that--several minutes later--presents us with a blended view of the Four Throughlines:

From here, we determine and set the unique Storyform for this story (a process that involves applying meaning to seemingly meaningless events) and then begin to develop our story.

Step 2: Consult Your Muse

The next stage involves diving deeper into your story's DNA. Using Subtxt's AI Muse, ask it to elaborate on a specific Storypoint - let's use the OS Concern as an example. The OS (Overall Story) Concern refers to the main issue or problem driving the narrative and affecting all characters. Your Muse will provide an in-depth explanation of this Storypoint, laying the groundwork for your narrative's overall trajectory.

Step 3: Explore Professional Curated Examples

Storytelling is a craft built on centuries of tradition and practice. To deepen your understanding of the OS Concern, ask the Muse for curated examples from other narratives that share the same Storypoint. This exploration gives you a chance to see your Storypoint in action and understand its nuances across different narratives and genres.

Step 4: Mix Your Idea with a Resonating Example

Once you've explored the provided examples, the next step is to select one that resonates with you and your story idea. This resonance may come from a similar theme, character type, or even a narrative structure. After choosing, "mix" this example with your idea. This process doesn't mean copying but adapting elements that complement your original concept. By doing so, you leverage the power of established narratives to enhance your own, imbuing your story with proven narrative strategies.

This is absolutely no different than sitting with your friends or fellow writers around a table and throwing out, "Remember in that one movie when so-and-so did this...we could do something like that!"

No different.

Except now you have access to decades of professional story development and expertise.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Augmented Narrative Intelligence!

Now, you're ready to witness the magic. With your story idea, the insights from your Muse, and the guidance of professionally curated examples, you've successfully crafted an enhanced narrative that resonates with your core idea. You've embarked on a journey of Intentional Storytelling, where every element serves your narrative and guides your audience through your intended experience.

As you iterate on this process, you'll find your storytelling skills improve, and your narrative intelligence expands. You'll harness the power of AI, the knowledge of Subtxt, and your unique creativity, bringing to life stories that are uniquely yours, intentional and impactful.