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A story's topic, or
theme, is the "dominant idea of a work" (Merriam-Webster's
Encyclopedia of Literature 1105). An author's expression
of an idea is always open to interpretation. Applying universal
themes to a possible 32,768 Dramatica storyforms is a challenging,
perhaps even daunting, endeavor. Nevertheless, putting careful
consideration into choosing a storyform will enable an author
to better communicate the intended message.
Dramatica grand argument stories with the same subject matter
may contain identical storyforms. This is particularly true
in adaptations. For example, Bridget
Jones's Diary, a novel by Helen Fielding, is a
"v.v.g." update of Jane Austen's Pride
and Prejudice (story example available in Dramatica
4.0) —— a comedic look at the social customs and
manners of England's upper class, in particular, the foolish
errors one can make in first impressions.
The Worst Thing
a Suburban Girl Could Imagine, a moving short story
written by Melissa Bank, and Eudora Welty's Pulitzer prize
winning novel The
Optimist's Daughter, each address a daughter coping
with her father's death. The two stories have the same storyform,
however, the storytelling is quite unlike.
Melissa Bank's short story The
Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing, and director
Andy Tennant's Ever
After: A Cinderella Story, both explore the quest
for Prince Charming, or as Bank's satirically says: "How
to Meet and Marry Mr. Right." In this case, same motif
—— different storyform.
Whether it is a fresh take on a classic, personal foray into
a common experience, or new twist on a fairy tale ——
an author always has the opportunity to present a unique vision.
A storyform designed with certain deliberation will give that
vision clarity —— increasing the likelihood the
audience will correctly interpret the author's intent.
Please Note: An earlier
version of this article was published on www.Dramatica.com
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