188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): the Call to Adventure

The Call to Adventure can be very subtle. In Straw Dogs (1971), Charlie helps put the groceries in the trunk. Then Amy suggest that maybe Charlie could help with the garage. Charlie will be happy to do it tomorrow.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Making Explicit the Ordinary Self

Whether the Hero et al arrive from an Ordinary World or arrive through the process of swift Exile, the Ordinary Self must be made explicit. This is because stories are all about Transformation and the Ordinary Self is an initial benchmark. In Straw Dogs (1971), David is a Mathematician.

Character Emotions

Directing audiences to ways of creating believable character emotions.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): The Beginning of the Changing

Certain commonalities occur in the Outer Cave of the First Threshold, including:

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Washing Away the Old Self

Symbolism is underrated. Post the First Threshold, a washing away of the old self is normal. In Brokeback Mountain (2005), Jack washes his clothes.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Call to Adventure

A staple of the Hero's Journey and Transformation. Separate and distinct from the Inciting Incident. A Call for the Hero to set out on a Journey; an implicit Call to face Challenges. It is the undergoing of the Journey that will Transform the Hero and provide him (or her) with the capacity to conquer challenges that were previously unconquerable. In Bonnie and Clyde (1967), Clyde invites Bonnie for a drink.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Shape Shifter Denied

Very often, it is here [post the Rebirth but before the Reward] where the Romantic Challenge decides to reject the Shape Shifter (who is the Hero's romantic competitor), and accept the Hero.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Apotheosis

It is the breaking out of previous restraints and restrictions. In the Godfather (1972), Don Corleone gives his word not to break the peace, but Michael doesn't.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Afterlife Act

His receives a high status burial (is buried on high ground etc). In Out of Africa (1985), Denys is buried upon a hilltop.

Writing 101: Can You Write A Joke?

Can you write a joke? Starting from an existing joke might help. We’ll give it a try with five bar jokes. Then it's your turn!

Cross-Dressing and the Pursuit of Happiness

The gender roles of The Merchant of Venice exemplify the themes of the play. At the same time, however, they illustrate separate motives. The women are concerned with emotional and spiritual happiness, while the men are concerned with material happiness. In the end, nevertheless, the couples manage to bring happiness into each other’s lives.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Unwilling Allies to the Sword

Unwilling Allies to the Sword Allies are Unwilling. Many allies refuse to journey with the Hero. Often the Romantic Challenge is an obstacle. In Carlito's Way (1993), Gail distances herself from Carlito when he agrees to help break Tony T out of prison.

188 Stage Hero's Journey (Monomyth): Characters and Archetypes

Characters and Archetypes Though not critical, it is useful to keep in mind the concept of the loop, which is most often used to neatly close a story (which does not necessarily mean that all challenges are resolved). The very first sequences link to the very last.

Honor the Author-But Do Not Let Him Speak

Human Society never ceases to amaze us at times, as every where we look we see hypocrisy in the sound and fury. Have you ever considered that it is thought of as non-socially acceptable for an author to critique their own work or write a book review on a book that they wrote? Interesting, but why is this non-spoken social rule even considered in the first place?

Valuable Tips for Book Printing

Books are valuable because they broaden the knowledge of people. They serve as a vital resource of information ranging from different topics. They foster education and help develop the intellectual, analytical and communicative skills of the people.