Telling a great story

In order to weave a complex story into a relatable story that the masses will believe, you must understand how storytellers sell their wares. Successful songwriters and authors innately use this process to convince readers of their story’s truth and validity. L. Ron Hubbard was a master at this. In his book “Dianetics”, he weaves a masterpiece a half-truths and convincing arguments based on his believable storytelling.

Our history as human beings revolves around the ancient art of storytelling. We all have an innate ability to relay our observations to others through a synopsis of our experiences. Following is a standard outline that helps writers organize their thoughts in order to relay a story that people will remember. First, mapping out your observations graphically (like the brain works) and then logically inserting aspects of their story into the following outline, allows them to create a believable story. Writer's block occurs when they try to logically fit their ideas into the outline without allowing their brains to contemplate those ideas first. By thinking about as many aspects of their stories as possible before they begin to plug these aspects into the outline, allows them to view their stories from a 360 degree viewpoint. This outline is the same that is taught in speech and writing classes in colleges worldwide. Mr. Hubbard uses this in his writings and tells memorable stories in “Dianetics”!

I. Introduction- Grab the reader’s (listener’s) attention and give them a hint about what you are talking about.

A. Attention-Getter- A one sentence hook that grabs the reader’s (listener’s) attention to follow the story you are about to tell; e.g. “Have you ever wondered why people buy squiggly widgets?”

B. Preview- A one paragraph explanation of the topic you are going to cover with one sentence per aspect of the story (preferably raising questions that you will answer in the main body or discussion).

1. A question or sentence about the first aspect of your story.

2. A question or sentence about the second aspect of your story.

3. A question or sentence about the third aspect of your story.

4. A question or sentence about the fourth aspect of your story.

II. Discussion (Main Body) - This is where you expand on each aspect of your story; answer questions and raise new questions as well.

A. Main Point #1 (Aspect #1) - e.g. color of an object.

B. Main Point #2 (Aspect #2) - e.g. weight of an object.

C. Main Point #3 (Aspect #3) - e.g. size of an object.

D. Main Point #4 (Aspect #4) - e.g. longevity of an object.

III. Conclusion- This is where, after you’ve laid out your facts and raised critical questions, you culminate your thoughts and draw conclusions from all the aspects of your discussion (main body).

A. Review- Repeat each aspect in a sentence and draw your conclusion for each aspect. Delineate why you have reached these conclusions based on the facts you have presented.

B. Memorable Statement- As you have grabbed their attention in the beginning, you need to leave the reader (listener) with a reason to further investigate and understand the presentation you have made; e.g. “Squiggly widgets come in many shapes and sizes and you can pick and choose any one you want by looking in the right place. Where are you going to look?”

Telling a relatable and memorable story is easy when you contemplate your observations and allow your brain to flow with ideas. Trying to place ideas into a box (outline) too soon can constrict the flow of telling a great story. Mr. Hubbard was an observer, a thinker and a great storyteller! Remember, “Dianetics” is HIS view of the “facts” that he observed. Others adopted his views later and developed the Church of Scientology into what it is today; a juggernaut money-making machine that operates as a business under the moniker of a “religion.”

For more info: Download my free Wilmington Spirituality Examiner toolbar. “Life is a gift. Be thankful for it and it will be replete with abundance. Encourage others to express creativity, release negativity and embrace pro-activity." Dean A. Banks, MCIWD, DD can be reached at webproducer@hotmail.com or banksnet.com. Download my free eBook on Articles 1-10 here.