The hottest Narrative Techniques Substack posts right now

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A whole new way of reading Jane Austen?

The Common Reader • 2161 implied HN points • 29 May 25
📚 Literature Classic literature Literary Criticism Narrative Techniques
  1. Free Indirect Speech and Free Indirect Thought are two different techniques in writing. Free Indirect Speech shows what a character is saying without direct quotes, while Free Indirect Thought reveals their deeper feelings or thoughts.
  2. Jane Austen used Free Indirect Speech in a unique way that mixes her characters' voices into the narrative. This makes her writing experimental and innovative compared to her peers.
  3. Critics often overlook Free Indirect Speech, focusing more on Free Indirect Thought. A recent thesis suggests we should pay more attention to the subtleties of Free Indirect Speech in Austen's work.

Stephen Crane's Red Badge of Courage

Castalia • 199 implied HN points • 09 Aug 23
📚 Literature Classic literature Literary Analysis Themes Author studies Narrative Techniques
  1. The story explores how characters shift between different ways of seeing themselves, moving from traditional to modern views. It's about understanding who we are in tough situations like war.
  2. Henry, the main character, learns that cowardice is a real part of life and doesn't make him less of a person. This realization shapes his identity and how he experiences bravery and fear.
  3. The novel shows that true courage can come from accepting all parts of oneself, rather than just the heroic moments. This blend of emotions is what makes Henry's journey relatable and profound.

The Gamemaster's Anger and Fear

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 59 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
📚 Literature Classic literature Mythology Narrative structure Character analysis Narrative Techniques
  1. The encounter between Achilles and Aeneas in the Iliad showcases a complex interplay of heroic motifs and meta-moments, inviting audience engagement in different narrative levels.
  2. The use of 'pivotal contrafactuals' in the text creates tension and deviation from traditional narratives, allowing for exploration of alternative outcomes that challenge the epic tradition.
  3. The divine intervention in the narrative, such as Poseidon's interference to save Aeneas, highlights themes of fate, emotion, and the role of gods as game masters shaping the story.

The Beginning of His Trouble

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 79 implied HN points • 20 Dec 23
📚 Literature Analysis Characterization Plot Narrative Techniques
  1. Book 11 of the Iliad is critical to the plot as it leads to a turning point in the Trojan War, with notable Greeks getting wounded.
  2. Achilles' interest in the battle showcases his complex character, sparking discussions among ancient scholars about his motivations.
  3. Ancient scholars note that Achilles sends Patroklos to investigate a wounded man, setting the stage for future events and highlighting the limits of human knowledge.

Merely the Third To Kill Me

Painful Signs, Or, Joel's Substack • 39 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
📚 Literature Classics Narrative Techniques Character analysis Prophecy Epic poetry
  1. Patroklos' death in the Iliad is a pivotal moment that redirects Achilles' rage towards Hektor and explores themes of hubris and fate.
  2. The use of apostrophe in Homer, like directly addressing characters, creates emotional impact and immersion for the audience.
  3. Hektor's role in Patroklos' death raises questions about heroism, fate, and the ambivalence towards excellence in warfare.
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New(ish) Books

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 01 Sep 22
📚 Literature Book Reviews Contemporary Fiction Narrative Techniques Author analysis Cultural Commentary
  1. Jhumpa Lahiri's book 'Whereabouts' talks about how tough it is to face aging and life without clear meaning. It cleverly uses small complaints to reflect deeper issues about life and acceptance.
  2. Jenny Odell's 'How To Do Nothing' encourages people to focus on their surroundings and disconnect from technology. It's about finding joy in simple activities, but some find her ideas a bit overly idealistic or boring.
  3. Both authors explore how to cope with life's difficulties, but they take different approaches. Lahiri highlights personal struggles, while Odell promotes community and mindfulness.

Gentlemen Prefer Bitches

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 06 Dec 22
📚 Literature Fiction Short Stories Character development Relationships Narrative Techniques
  1. Some men are attracted to women who seem strong and assertive, but this can lead to unhealthy relationships where they overlook their own needs.
  2. Friendship and support can help people recognize their worth and encourage them to make positive changes in their lives.
  3. Being honest and having clear expectations in relationships is important to prevent one person from feeling like a burden or a freeloader.

Lessons in narrative compassion

The Leftovers • 19 implied HN points • 07 Jan 22
📚 Literature Short Stories Narrative Techniques Character development Influences Writing Style
  1. The book 'Dance Move' by Wendy Erskine uses third person narration, creating a detached, observer-like perspective that allows the stories to almost tell themselves.
  2. The stories in 'Dance Move' predominantly take place in intimate interior spaces like kitchens and living rooms, focusing on the everyday joys and sorrows of characters, rather than grand events.
  3. Wendy Erskine's writing style, influenced by authors like Chekhov, shows a compassionate approach to storytelling that prioritizes character depth and authenticity over sensationalism.