A novel writing coach uses mythic story structures to help a novelist build their storyline.

Mythic story structures are frameworks used in storytelling that often draw on ancient myths and archetypes to convey universal themes and experiences. These structures have been analyzed and categorized by scholars and writers to understand how they resonate with audiences across cultures and time periods. Understanding these structures is crucial for novelists, as it provides a blueprint for crafting compelling narratives. This article explores several well-known mythic story structures and discusses how novel writing coaches can use this knowledge to assist writers in developing their stories.

One of the most prominent mythic story structures is Joseph Campbell's "The Hero's Journey." Campbell outlined this narrative pattern in his seminal work, "The Hero with a Thousand Faces." The Hero's Journey involves a hero who embarks on an adventure, faces and overcomes a crisis, and returns transformed. This structure is divided into stages such as the Call to Adventure, Crossing the Threshold, the Ordeal, and the Return with the Elixir. Many modern stories, including "Star Wars" and "The Lord of the Rings," follow this structure.

Another significant work on mythic structure is Vladimir Propp's "Morphology of the Folktale." Propp analyzed Russian folktales and identified common narrative elements, which he termed "functions." These functions include actions like a villain's pursuit, the hero's departure, and the acquisition of a magical agent. Propp's work demonstrates that despite cultural differences, many stories share a fundamental narrative framework.

The "Tragic Hero" is another mythic story structure rooted in ancient Greek literature. Aristotle defined this structure in his "Poetics," where he described the tragic hero as a noble character who has a fatal flaw (hamartia) leading to their downfall. This structure includes elements such as peripeteia (a reversal of fortune) and anagnorisis (a moment of critical discovery). Famous examples include Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" and Shakespeare's "Macbeth."

Christopher Vogler's "The Writer's Journey," inspired by Campbell's work, adapts the Hero's Journey for modern writers. Vogler's structure includes twelve stages, such as the Ordinary World, Meeting with the Mentor, Tests, Allies, and Enemies, and the Road Back. This practical guide helps writers apply mythic principles to contemporary storytelling.

Lastly, the "Monomyth" is a term often used interchangeably with the Hero's Journey but can also refer to the broader concept of a universal story pattern found in myths worldwide. It encompasses the idea that all stories are variations of a single great story, reflecting common human experiences and truths.

A novel writing coach can use mythic structures to provide a blueprint to help novelists craft compelling narratives. Firstly, a writing coach can help novelists identify and develop their story's underlying structure. By using frameworks like the Hero's Journey, the coach can assist writers in mapping out their protagonist's journey, ensuring that the narrative includes key stages such as the Call to Adventure, the Ordeal, and the Return. This structured approach provides a clear roadmap for the writer, helping to maintain narrative coherence and progression.

Additionally, the coach can aid in character development by drawing on archetypes found in mythic structures. Archetypes like the Hero, the Mentor, and the Shadow can serve as foundational templates for characters, providing depth and relatability. For example, the coach might suggest incorporating a Mentor figure to guide the protagonist or a Shadow figure to serve as a formidable antagonist. These archetypal roles can enhance the story's emotional impact and thematic richness.

Moreover, a writing coach can assist in creating compelling conflict and tension by highlighting the importance of the hero's trials and tribulations. Using structures such as Propp's functions, the coach can guide the novelist in introducing challenges that test the protagonist's resolve and catalyze their growth. This ensures that the story remains engaging and dynamic, with a clear progression of stakes and consequences.

A coach's knowledge of mythic structures also aids in reinforcing thematic elements within the narrative. By understanding the universal themes inherent in myths—such as the hero's quest for self-discovery, the battle between good and evil, or the transformative power of love—the coach can help writers weave these themes into their stories. This thematic cohesion adds layers of meaning and resonance, making the novel more impactful.

Furthermore, the coach can provide feedback on pacing and narrative rhythm, crucial aspects often emphasized in mythic structures. For instance, the Hero's Journey includes moments of intense action balanced with periods of reflection and preparation. A writing coach can help novelists strike this balance, ensuring that the story maintains a compelling flow and keeps readers engaged.

Finally, the writing coach can offer strategies for subverting or reinventing traditional mythic structures. While these structures provide a solid foundation, modern readers often appreciate fresh and innovative takes on familiar patterns. The coach can encourage novelists to experiment with non-linear narratives, unexpected character arcs, or genre-blending techniques, all while maintaining the story's core coherence.

A novel writing coach's expertise in mythic structures can be an invaluable asset to novelists. By providing a structured approach to narrative development, deepening character arcs, creating compelling conflict, reinforcing thematic elements, ensuring proper pacing, and encouraging innovation, the coach helps writers craft stories that resonate deeply with readers. This holistic approach not only enhances the quality of the novel but also empowers the writer to tap into the timeless power of mythic storytelling. Understanding and utilizing mythic structures allows novelists to create narratives that are both engaging and meaningful, connecting with audiences on a fundamental level.