Losing Your Audience - Intentionally Blank Ep. 171
Sep 12, 2024
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Brandon Sanderson, an acclaimed fantasy author, and Dan Wells, a popular thriller writer, dive into the intricacies of storytelling. They discuss how authorial intrusion can break immersion, with examples from films and literature. The duo highlights the joy of spotting character actors and how familiar faces impact viewer experience. They also analyze the quirks of fictional devices, like 555 phone numbers, and the challenges of word choice in fantasy writing, emphasizing the importance of cultural nuances and thoughtful details in world-building.
Authors need to navigate the fine line between cultural authenticity and reader comprehension to maintain narrative immersion.
Distractions in storytelling, like forced humor or celebrity cameos, can significantly disrupt a viewer's or reader's engagement with the narrative.
Deep dives
Title Evolution and Story Context
The title of the new book was originally considered to be 'Knights of Wind and Truth,' but ultimately changed to 'Wind and Truth.' The decision was influenced by a desire for symmetry within the titles of a broader series, as the author initially aimed for names that would have a mathematical elegance. However, after careful reflection, the simpler title resonated more, particularly in relation to the story's context. The in-world book maintains the longer title, which adds a layer of depth but reinforces the author's preference for the straightforward and impactful 'Wind and Truth.'
Elements that Disrupt Immersion
The discussion highlights various elements that can disrupt a reader's or viewer's immersion in a narrative, such as forced humor or overt authorial choices. Subtle references to popular culture, like Doctor Who, are fun when they blend seamlessly into the storyline but can break immersion if too conspicuous. Cameos from recognizable actors can also distract audiences if they prefer to fully engage with the character rather than recalling the actor's celebrity status. The conversation acknowledges that these disruptions often stem from an imbalance between the story's natural flow and the author's intentional insertions or quirks.
Language and Cultural References in Storytelling
The use of culturally specific terms and food references in fantasy writing poses a challenge for authors striving for realism while maintaining reader immersion. Choosing words that resonate with the story's culture rather than defaulting to common references adds authenticity but can complicate comprehension for readers. For instance, using terms such as 'homicidal hat trick' may resonate well for the author but confuse readers unfamiliar with the phrase’s real-world implications. Ultimately, the goal is to strike a balance where cultural depth enhances the story without becoming an overwhelming barrier for readers seeking enjoyable and immersive experiences.
Brandon Sanderson and Dan Wells sit down to talk about the things in movies and stories that pulls them out of the worlds, and how they try to avoid doing that in there own works.
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