Review of The Writer's Journey
Joseph Campbell’s mythic story structure made accessible for writers
Aug 14, 2008
This book explains how to structure plot and use mythic archetypes to create realistic character arcs. But Vogler takes it one step further. He shows the writer how to apply this information by using modern blockbuster hits that have successfully applied these theories. Examples include Star Wars, Pulp Fiction, The Lion King, Titanic and Full Monty. He breaks down these films and shows how successful utilization of mythic structure can create powerful iconic characters and movies that will endure.
Based on Joseph Campbell’s Power of Myth Research
Joseph Campbell is the world’s leading expert in myths from around the world. He spent his professional lifetime compiling data from the stories that have endured centuries such as creation stories, beloved fables and enduring deity stories. He has compiled them from cultures from around the world and throughout history and identified their common elements and structures. This information has been compiled into a series of books and lectures that are readily available, but can be time consuming to wade through.
A More User-Friendly Version of Campbell's Work
A student of Campbell’s, Christopher Vogler takes Campbell's wisdom and insights and converts the collection of books and articles into a powerful and accessible guide for writers of all backgrounds. Whether you are a playwright, screenwriter, novelist or non-fiction writer, this book’s wisdom and examples will help you achieve your publication goals.
Vogler Helps Writers Troubleshoot Their Work
This book will guide the writer through troubleshooting exercises to pinpoint what is missing in their plot structure, whether you are a three-act plotter, a pantser or something in between. Also shows the character arc structure and how it correlates to the plot outline. Easy to read chapters show the writer what the various archetypal characters functions are and how to make each character realistic and distinct through modern and historical examples (such as Pulp Fiction versus the timeless Arthurian Legends) and then adds to the depth of information by showing the psychological function of each role.
If You Only Buy One Writer’s Reference Book, This Should Be It
“This book is like having the smartest person in the story meeting come home with you and whisper what to do in your ear as you write…” says Lynda Obst, Producer of One Fine Day and Contact. Vogler’s chapters walk you through the basic structure of a successful plot and captivating character arcs drawing on his years working with Disney and 20th Century Fox, and his evaluation of more than 10,000 screenplays.
Writers' Groups List This Book in Top Five
Writers from every genre spanning Romance to Horror recommend this book in their top five must haves, often citing it as the number one most influential writing reference book to have on the shelf. With more than 60,000 books sold in the first edition alone, any writer looking to improve upon plot or character development should have this book beside the computer.
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