Robert McKee On The Art of Story & Why Stories Matter
Feb 13, 2023
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Robert McKee, a renowned screenwriting teacher and author of the influential book 'Story,' shares his insights into the art of storytelling. He emphasizes how narratives shape our identities and connect us as humans. The conversation touches on the rise of the anti-hero in modern media and the evolution of character development, particularly in shows like 'Better Call Saul.' McKee also reflects on the struggles of authentic storytelling and the balance between creativity and commercial appeal. His legacy and the impact of storytelling on personal and societal levels are central themes.
Stories serve as metaphors to navigate human complexities and shape identities.
Use precise language in storytelling to convey reality and illuminate the human condition.
Focus on honest endings earned through character growth for deeper resonance.
Greatness in writing stems from innate talent that sets exceptional writers apart.
Deep dives
The Power of Stories and Storytelling in Human Life
Stories are integral to human life, serving as metaphors that help us navigate and understand the complexities of existence. They provide a framework for our experiences and shape our identities. Robert McKee emphasizes the significance of understanding the art of storytelling as a means to comprehend the human condition and alleviate suffering. He highlights that stories, when truthful and honest, reveal the raw realities of life and help individuals make sense of their struggles.
The Impact of Great Writing on Reality and Perception
Robert McKee advocates for writers to use precise and truthful language to convey reality in their work. He criticizes the use of euphemisms and emphasizes the importance of portraying life as it is rather than through rose-colored glasses. By exploring honesty in storytelling, writers can illuminate the human condition and provide profound insights into the complexities of existence.
Differentiating Between Happy Endings and Honest Endings in Stories
McKee discusses the distinction between happy endings and honest endings in narratives. He believes that happy endings should be earned by the characters through their struggles and growth, rather than simply slapped on for the sake of positivity. By focusing on positive and honest resolutions, stories can resonate more deeply with audiences and reflect the nuances of real life.
Exploring Talents and Success in Writing
McKee attributes greatness in writing to talent, emphasizing that exceptional writers possess a unique gift that sets them apart from others. While he can impart knowledge and guidance, the ultimate success and distinction in writing come from an innate talent that allows writers to create captivating and impactful stories. As seen in the achievements of writers like William Goldman, talent plays a significant role in elevating storytelling from good to great.
Creativity and Analogical Logic
Creativity involves discovering hidden connections between existing things, giving birth to unique and innovative ideas. Analogical logic is exemplified by the relationship between fog and cat's feet in Carl Sandburg's 'The Fog,' showcasing how seemingly unrelated concepts can be fused to create new insights and perspectives.
The Process of Writing and Creativity
Writing involves constant refinement, with writers spending more time critiquing and rewriting their work than initially writing it. The process can be tortuous and tedious, often involving discarding a significant portion of the written material to achieve a polished result that resonates with the audience.
The Significance of Storytelling and Legacy
Stories serve as tools for understanding life's complexities, offering insights into human experiences beyond individual realities. Reading or watching diverse narratives enriches one's understanding and empathy. Every writer aspires for their work to endure beyond their lifetime, leaving a lasting legacy through their storytelling.
Robert McKee is a modern Aristotle of story and master of the form who wrote the definitive book on the subject, called, of course, STORY. Robert is a Fulbright scholar and the author of five books on storytelling, including Dialogue, Character, Action, and Storynomics, but he is best known as the most sought-after screenwriting teacher in the world. His students have collectively won 70 Academy Awards, 250 Emmy Awards, and 100 WGA (Writers Guild of America) Awards. My conversation with Robert centered on his philosophy of story, what stories are, why they’re important for humanity and so much more.
