The last foundation for a “concept” novel is the Theme. Now, this is going to encompass a larger discussion, because theme isn’t just about how a story starts. It’s an important, if not integral, aspect of virtually every story written. But let’s address the main point of these articles, theme as the genesis point for …
Now we arrive at the end of the Journey. There’s a few important things to consider. The first one is, how is the Hero’s return going to change his ordinary world? Who needs to be punished and who will find freedom? What will our hero have learned about himself and the world? Will the elixir …
The Hero’s Journey Part 12 – Return with the Elixir Read More »
Our hero is running back to his ordinary world. Before he returns, there is one last threshold that must be crossed. If you recall, back when our hero crossed into this mysterious world, he was another person. Perhaps he was more naive, or weak, or egotistical. Through the trials he has endured in the other …
Our hero has crossed two major thresholds so far. The first brought him to the other world. The second delivered him to his ordeal. Now, he needs to cross a third. After the ordeal, our hero seized his reward and felt pretty good about himself. He celebrated, became a man, found love, recounted his amazing …
The hero has survived death. He is forever changed. Luckily, it’s time he was allowed to breathe. As I stated last time, the ordeal occurs about midway through the story. It often represents the hero’s opportunity to obtain the thing he has been seeking in the special world. Perhaps he came seeking a restorative elixir, …
Our hero has been through a lot. Now, he faces the greatest and darkest of moments, The Ordeal. The ordeal is about change. When this is over, our hero will never be the same. Often, the ordeal results in a symbolic death for our hero who is then reborn. Once the rebirth has occurred, he …
Our hero has crossed over into the special world and faced tests, made new allies and enemies. Through the various facets of the previous stage, he has grown and developed. The central goal of his quest must now be approached. He will need to cross the second major threshold, into the darkest and most dangerous …
The Hero’s Journey Part 7 – Approach to the Inmost Cave Read More »
