Storytelling Checklists

Storytelling is the act of using words, images, or other media to share a narrative with an audience. Storytelling conveys a message or lesson in compelling, engaging, and relatable ways. It is a powerful tool used by humans for thousands of years to communicate, educate, and entertain. Storytelling can take many forms, including oral, written, and visual, through art, film, and other media. Storytelling can often be used to inspire, motivate, or persuade an audience.

• A clear and concise plot: A good story should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, with a well-defined conflict and resolution.
• Dynamic characters: A story's characters should be well-developed and believable, with their own motivations, desires, and flaws. See archetypes below.
• Descriptive language: The use of descriptive language helps to bring the story to life and engage the reader's or listener's imagination.
• Emotional appeal: A good story should evoke emotions in the audience, whether it be joy, sadness, excitement, or fear.
• A moral or lesson: A story should have a deeper meaning or message, whether it be a lesson about life, human nature, or the world around us.

Effective storytelling requires the use of various techniques to engage the audience and convey the message or lesson effectively.

• Show, don't tell: Instead of simply telling the audience what is happening, use descriptive language and action to show them the events of the story.
• Use dialogue: Including dialogue between characters can make the story more engaging and realistic.
• Use sensory details: Describing the sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and feelings of the story can help the audience feel more immersed in the narrative.
• Use conflict: A story should have some form of conflict or tension, whether it be internal (within a character) or external (between characters or against the environment). This helps to keep the audience engaged and invested in the story.
• Use a strong beginning and ending: The beginning of a story should grab the audience's attention and set the tone for the rest of the narrative. The ending should resolve any conflicts and leave a lasting impression on the audience.

By using these techniques and incorporating other elements such as dynamic characters, descriptive language, and emotional appeal, a storyteller can craft a compelling and engaging story that resonates with their audience.

Here is a list of some common archetypes that are found in literature, mythology, and storytelling:

• Hero: This archetype represents the hero's journey and the quest for self-discovery and growth. The hero often faces challenges and struggles, but ultimately emerges stronger and wiser.
• Mentor: This archetype represents wisdom and guidance, often taking the form of a wise old man or woman who helps the hero on their journey.
• Shadow: This archetype represents the darker side of human nature, including negative emotions, desires, and behaviors.
• Trickster: This archetype represents mischief, deception, and subversion of the status quo.
• Lover: This archetype represents romantic love and relationships, as well as the pursuit of pleasure and desire.
• Mother: This archetype represents nurturing, protection, and the life-giving force.
• Father: This archetype represents authority, protection, and guidance.
• Child: This archetype represents innocence, curiosity, and potential.
• Wise old man or woman: This archetype represents wisdom, guidance, and the connection to the spiritual or divine.
• Goddess: This archetype represents feminine power, beauty, and fertility.

"Suspense"