Writing Excuses

19.38: A Close Reading on Tension: Anticipation and Subversion

Sep 22, 2024

This week, P. Djèlí Clark, an acclaimed author known for his unique storytelling, joins to explore how writers can effectively use anticipation and subversion to engage readers. He delves into whether to do the exact opposite of what readers expect or to sometimes align with their anticipations. The conversation features insights from his work, Ring Shout, and fascinating examples from film and literature, revealing how tension can be amplified through unexpected narrative twists. Listeners also receive a creative homework assignment to further hone their craft.

19:35

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Episode guests

P. Djèlí Clark

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Subverting readers' expectations in storytelling often involves creating unexpected turns, as illustrated by examples like 'Nope' and 'Ring Shout.'

Complex character dilemmas challenge traditional notions of heroism, prompting readers to reflect on moral ambiguity and emotional depth within narratives.

Deep dives

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Intro

2min

Exploring Tension and Narrative Techniques

2min

Tension Through Anticipation and Subversion

7min

Creative Tools and Unexpected Tales

4min

Subverting Expectations in Storytelling

9min

Navigating Writing Excuses: Patreon Benefits and Narrative Tension

4min

When you’re subverting your readers’ expectations, do you need to do the exact opposite of what they’re anticipating? Today, we dive into this question, using various examples of books and movies. We then examine how P. Djèlí Clark does this throughout Ring Shout– does he subvert our expectations completely? Not always. In fact, sometimes he does the opposite.

Thing of the Week: White Cat, Black Dog by Kelly Link

Homework: Write a scene listening to three different piece of music that move you in different ways.

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Credits: Your hosts for this episode were Mary Robinette Kowal, DongWon Song, Erin Roberts, and Howard Tayler. It was produced by Emma Reynolds, recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson.

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