

Rationally Writing
Rationally Writing
Webserial authors Daystar Eld and Alexander Wales talk about the craft of writing stories that make sense, and examine writing tropes and media through the lens of the Rational and Rationalist genres.
Intro and Outro music is G.A.T.O. Must Be Respected, by Tim Yarbrough
To contact us, please email daystar721@gmail.com
Intro and Outro music is G.A.T.O. Must Be Respected, by Tim Yarbrough
To contact us, please email daystar721@gmail.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 7, 2017 • 46min
Episode 20 - Religion in Fiction
The hosts dive deep into the pitfalls of representing religion in fiction. They share personal journeys from different faith backgrounds, highlighting the importance of authenticity in character portrayal. The discussion explores the challenges of integrating faith and the afterlife in narratives. They critique stereotypical portrayals, emphasizing the need for genuine motivations. Plus, they examine how fictional religions can enrich storytelling, showcasing examples from popular literature. A fascinating blend of personal insight and writing advice awaits!

Dec 18, 2016 • 44min
Episode 19 - Exposition
Dive into the intricate world of exposition in storytelling. Discover the fine line between good and bad exposition, and learn how it can transform characters and plot. Timing is crucial—too much or too little can derail a narrative. Explore examples from both literature and film that illustrate masterful integration of background information. Plus, unravel the balance between different writing styles across genres. Whether you’re crafting fantasy or delving into literary fiction, this discussion offers fresh insights for every storyteller.

Dec 10, 2016 • 37min
Episode 18 - Writer's Block (Guest: Eaglejarl)
In this discussion, Eaglejarl, a seasoned writer, shares valuable insights on conquering the notorious writer's block. He elaborates on personal experiences and the mental hurdles writers face. The conversation highlights practical strategies for both avoiding and breaking through writer's block, including embracing randomness inspired by tabletop RPGs. They also explore the dynamics of character autonomy in storytelling, revealing how unexpected plot twists can reignite creativity. Tune in for tips that blend structure with spontaneity!

Nov 20, 2016 • 25min
Episode 17 - Serial Fiction, Part 2
In this engaging discussion, the hosts dive deep into the nuances of serial fiction. They explore optimal chapter lengths and the balance needed for gripping storytelling. The dangers of stretching narratives too thin are also examined. Character growth and the introduction of fresh conflicts are highlighted, drawing parallels to iconic films. The evolution of adventures within serial narratives is another fascinating topic, showcasing how beloved characters face new challenges and settings, keeping fans engaged throughout the journey.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.


