Rationally Writing
Episode 5 - Rule of Cool
Aug 8, 2016
Daystar, an expert in storytelling and tropes, joins Alexander, who delves into rational fiction's narrative techniques. They explore the 'Rule of Cool,' discussing its appeal and pitfalls in storytelling. The duo debates balancing captivating elements with narrative integrity, using examples like lightsabers and fantasy strength. They ponder whether it's better to explore ideas fully or limit their role to avoid plot inconsistencies. The conversation also touches on when to embrace chaos and the art of knowing when to cut beloved elements for the sake of coherence.
39:10
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Quick takeaways
- The Rule of Cool highlights the balance between exciting spectacle and narrative consistency, emphasizing the need for logical coherence in storytelling.
- Rational fiction encourages writers to justify extraordinary elements within the narrative framework to enhance engagement without undermining plot integrity.
Deep dives
Understanding the Rule of Cool
The Rule of Cool posits that the audience's willingness to suspend disbelief is directly influenced by the awesomeness of the elements presented in a story. High-concept ideas, like 'Gunkata' from the movie 'Equilibrium', highlight this as they introduce fantastical elements that viewers accept for their excitement despite lacking logical grounding. In science fiction, tropes such as artificial gravity on non-spinning spaceships become accepted norms because they serve the narrative’s visual appeal. This acceptance reflects how audiences prioritize spectacle over realism when the presentation is deemed sufficiently engaging.
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