#105: First Chapter Analysis: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Aug 22, 2023
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In this podcast, the hosts analyze the first chapter of 'Lessons in Chemistry' by Bonnie Garmus using the '5 Commandments of Storytelling' from The Story Grid. They discuss the effectiveness of the opening scene, value shift in character development, decision-making, and the turning point in the story. They also explore the importance of meaningful change, scene structure, and eliminating unnecessary dialogue.
Starting a book with a prologue in disguise can effectively capture readers' curiosity and interest.
The first chapter effectively introduces the main character, establishes her depressed state, and sets up expectations regarding her breaking point and conflicting desires.
Deep dives
The Hook: Prologue in Disguise
The podcast episode begins with a discussion about the effectiveness of starting a book with a prologue in disguise. The prologue in this particular book sets the tone, establishes the narrative voice, and raises questions about the main character, Elizabeth Zott. It also introduces the central question of the story, which is what will make Elizabeth break from her permanently depressed state. The podcast hosts highlight the trend of using prologues in disguise and the effectiveness of capturing readers' curiosity and interest.
Chapter 1: Establishing the Voice and Tone
The hosts dive into the first chapter of the book and analyze why the author chose to start with this chapter. They discuss how it introduces Elizabeth's character, her depressed state, and the contrast between her practicality and desire for change. The chapter sets up reader expectations, introducing questions about Elizabeth's breaking point and what challenges her to break. The hosts also mention how the chapter effectively establishes the narrative voice, humor, and the relationship between Elizabeth and her daughter.
Chapter 2: Turning Points and Expectations
In this chapter, Elizabeth confronts Walter Pine, Amanda's father, about her daughter's stolen lunches. The hosts analyze the scene using the five commandments of storytelling and identify the inciting incident as Elizabeth realizing where Mad's lunches are going. The turning point occurs when Walter offers Elizabeth a job hosting a new TV show called Supper at Six. This creates a crisis for Elizabeth, as she must decide whether to accept the job, which goes against her desire to be a respected chemist. The chapter resolves with Elizabeth reluctantly accepting the job, setting up expectations regarding her success in the show and the conflict between her dreams and her current career path.
Conclusion: Big Picture Questions
The hosts wrap up the episode by discussing the significance of the prologue in disguise and its impact on reader engagement. They emphasize the importance of scenes contributing to big picture expectations and character development. The episode concludes with a mention of the upcoming episodes and encourages listeners to leave ratings and reviews to support the podcast.
In today’s episode, Abigail K. Perry and I take a deep dive into the first chapter of Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. Here’s a preview of what we talk about:
[03:17] A very quick summary of the first two chapters
[06:30] Our analysis of the scene/s within the first two chapters using the "5 Commandments of Storytelling" from The Story Grid
[25:11] Final thoughts and episode recap
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