Techniques to Convey Backstory Without Bogging Down the Narrative: Context & Memory

Author: Stacy Frazer
Published: Sun 04 Aug 2024
Episode Link: None

Techniques to Convey Backstory Without Bogging Down the Narrative: Context & Memory

Today, we dig into the topic of backstory, specifically focusing on how to effectively deliver it without bogging down your narrative by using context and memory to weave backstory seamlessly into your story.

Using examples from Rebecca Yarrow's Fourth Wing and VE Schwab's The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, I break down how these elements can deepen the reader’s understanding of the characters and their motivations and move the story forward.

Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical exercises to enhance your writing craft.

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00:00 Introduction to Backstory in Writing

01:14 Episode Overview

01:35 Importance of Backstory

02:52 Three Methods to Deliver Backstory

04:06 Using Context and Example from 'Fourth Wing'

07:55 Exercise for Identifying Backstory

08:45 Using Memory to Deliver Backstory

10:45 Example from 'The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue'

14:46 Takeaways and Conclusion

For more on how to craft a compelling backstory, listen to episode 19

See the article on the Write It Scared Blog for the full breakdown of each of the passages discussed on the podcast:

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