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Rationally Writing

Latest episodes

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Nov 14, 2016 • 35min

Episode 16 - Serial Fiction, Part 1

Dive into the captivating world of serial fiction, tracing its evolution from Dickens to modern podcasts. Discover the unique pros, like community engagement and reader feedback, alongside the challenges of plot cohesion and scheduling. Unpack the art of writing episodically, balancing consistency with creativity. Through insightful anecdotes, explore how authors can thrive in this dynamic storytelling format while navigating editing hurdles. Plus, don't miss a recommended read that exemplifies the genre's innovative spirit!
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Nov 7, 2016 • 45min

Episode 15 - Multiverse

Dive into the fascinating world of multiverses! Discover why these stories captivate us, from their roots in beloved series to their presence in fanfiction. Explore the different types of multiverse storytelling, like bound vs. unbound, and the creative challenges they present. The hosts discuss how to maintain character depth amid infinite possibilities and emphasize the need for effective world-building to draw in audiences. Get ready to rethink what you know about parallel worlds!
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Oct 24, 2016 • 42min

Episode 14 - Time Travel

Join Alexander, a time travel fiction expert, and Daystar, a storyteller delving into time travel challenges, as they explore the intriguing world of time travel in narratives. They dissect various types, from static to multiple timelines, and dive into the ripple effect of small changes. With a sprinkle of humor, they critique classic films like 'Back to the Future' while illuminating the role of prophecy and fate. This engaging discussion unveils the nuances of both magical and technological time travel and hints at the exciting potential of multiverse storytelling.
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Oct 16, 2016 • 52min

Episode 13 - Prophecies

Daystar, an expert in storytelling techniques, and Alexander, a writer focused on character development, delve into the complexities of prophecies in narratives. They discuss how prophecies can spoil tension and diminish character agency. The duo critiques common pitfalls in storytelling, advocating for more thoughtful approaches to maintain suspense. They also explore conditional prophecies and their impact on character motivation, contrasting fictional destiny with real-life decision-making for growth. Tune in for clever insights on avoiding predictable tropes!
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Oct 12, 2016 • 27min

Episode 12 - Story Structure, Part 2

Daystar, a storyteller specializing in adjusting narratives, teams up with Alexander, an expert in rational fiction, to dive into the nuances of story structures. They discuss the mechanics of rational fiction, exploring how deviations from traditional formats can enhance storytelling. The duo unpacks the complexities of crafting satisfying endings, balancing realism with optimism, and the importance of emotional depth in narratives. They also analyze non-standard conclusions and the impact of character arcs on audience engagement, offering fresh perspectives on popular media.
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Sep 25, 2016 • 43min

Episode 11 - Story Structure, Part 1

Delve into the art of storytelling as the hosts dissect various narrative structures. Discover the compelling story circle model and its roots in the hero's journey. They explore the evolution of superheroes, shedding light on identity development driven by personal loss. Learn about masterful chapter structuring techniques and the significance of character arcs across narratives. The discussion also uncovers innovative storytelling methods like palindrome narratives and culminates in a look at time travel themes in fantasy literature.
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Sep 18, 2016 • 31min

Episode 10 - Antagonists, Part 2

Explore the intricate relationship between protagonists and their antagonists, revealing how strong villains enhance narrative depth. Dive into the complex backstory of Doomsday and his multi-layered conflict with Superman. Unpack Batman's psychological dynamics with his Rogues, particularly the Joker, and how media shapes our view of adversaries. Discover the richness added by multiple antagonists and their diverse motivations in storytelling, making for a compelling experience for audiences.
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Sep 10, 2016 • 40min

Episode 9 - Antagonists, Part 1

The discussion dives into the essence of compelling antagonists, stressing their role as active obstacles in stories. Shallow villains fall flat, while complex figures like Randall Flagg and Lex Luthor bring depth and intrigue. They dissect how nuanced motivations create relatable characters. The enigmatic Darth Vader is also examined, with limited presence enhancing his mystery. Magneto's complex dynamics reveal societal fears, pushing the conversation toward crafting multi-dimensional villains. This exploration deepens storytelling and audience engagement.
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Aug 27, 2016 • 44min

Episode 8 - Types of Conflict

Dive into the fascinating world of storytelling conflicts. Discover why conflict is essential for engaging narratives. Explore classic man vs. man rivalries and the rich dynamics of man vs. society themes. Delve into the emotional depths of man vs. self struggles, alongside the harsh realities of man vs. nature. Finally, examine the technological confrontations that shape our modern tales and the challenges they pose to personal and societal values.
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Aug 20, 2016 • 46min

Episode 7 - Magic Systems, Part 2

Dive into the fascinating world of magic systems with insights on constructing rational and engaging frameworks. Discover how limitations can deepen narratives, making conflicts more dynamic. Explore the complexities of telekinesis and the balance of powers between heroes and villains. Learn why magic shouldn't simplify a writer's task and the necessity of intelligent character interactions with magical elements. The discussion also touches on the diversity in magic systems and the impact of constraints on character development.

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