The art of storytelling

Sharing stories to capture the interest and attention of the audience is a fundamental element in the development of a speech. However, storytelling goes beyond recounting a series of events.

A good story has art embedded in it. It originates from knowing how to express and captivate while following a common structure and logic.

Below, we will explore the structure and steps necessary to create a story that will awaken positive emotions in the listener.

Plot and storyline: Storytelling, better known as the art of storytelling includes some well-known moments: introduction, development and denouements or conclusions. Differentiating between the argument and the plot of a story allows us to understand the structure and development.

While the plot of a story provides an overview of the plot, the plot itself provides more details about how the story unfolds and the events that take place in it.

For example, the plot might be 'A woman becomes convinced of the importance of the speech', while the plot would answer questions such as How and where did the woman become convinced of the importance of the speech?

Problem: When creating a narrative, remember that your primary audience is 'the hero'. What does this imply? The hero is the main character and you must focus on his or her motivation. In addition, you must establish the conflict in relation to the tension created:

• What is the challenge that the hero, or the viewer, will have to overcome in the story?

• What level of difficulty will the audience face in seeking a solution?

• Will they succeed or will their journey have been in vain?

The benefit of the speech: As the communicator and facilitator, you will be the linchpin in finding the solution. You must convey to them that their presence in that place is the beginning of a change in their lives. You have the answers and they must listen to you. A story along these lines is linked to the value or benefit your speech will offer them:

• What will they get out of paying attention?

• How will the information provided help them with their problem, the starting point of the story?

What actions will the main character in your story take to overcome the challenges and obstacles he or she faces? How will you develop the plot to accomplish this? In these unknowns, use ideas that explain how, based on reality and the obstacles you will later present, the main character understood or found the solution. This plan must be:

• Achievable.

• Attractive.

• Mysterious.

• Believable.

• Interesting.

The ending: All stories that convey a lesson have a pleasant ending. How else would you motivate the viewer to pay attention to your words? The happy ending generates hope and enthusiasm for overcoming obstacles. The problem becomes a simple intermediary to success and you achieve what you set out to do with achievable goals to follow.

Don't leave an open ending, unless your goal is to get the audience to reflect and understand that their role is to discover if their determination will be enough to achieve the desired outcome.

Exercise: Research different ways of presenting stories and if possible analyze several speeches that demonstrate the use of fluid and quality narratives. Don't worry, you can also use your favorite movie or short stories.

Examine the structure:

• What is the plot, how does it relate to your plot?

• What is the purpose of the story?

• How does the author manage to create tension that makes you want to keep reading or watching the work in question?