The Symbolic World 422 - Why Exaggeration Is Necessary in Storytelling
Nov 18, 2025
The podcast delves into the art of exaggeration in storytelling, revealing how films like The Conjuring amplify real events to enhance meaning. It explores the transformation of legends, using Alexander the Great as an example of how embellished tales grow over time. The discussion tackles the concept of exaggerated spectacles, likening them to magic shows that captivate audiences. It also highlights the dangers of exaggerated narratives, from the 1980s satanic panic to modern-day conspiracies, urging listeners to discern real patterns behind sensational stories.
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Watching The Conjuring Sparked Reflection
- Jonathan Pageau recounts watching The Conjuring on a plane and being surprised by its Christian-friendly portrayal.
- He noticed the film dramatizes real events like Annabelle far beyond the mild historical accounts to make a memorable story.
Exaggeration Reveals Deeper Patterns
- Pageau argues legends exaggerate to reveal an underlying pattern or moral about events.
- The pattern must exist first, and exaggeration helps highlight and preserve that deeper meaning.
Annabelle Doll: From Raggedy To Terrifying
- He contrasts the real Annabelle doll (a Raggedy Ann) with the creepy cinematic version used to capture attention.
- Pageau says mild real events terrify victims but don't make compelling, retellable movies without exaggeration.
