Non-Linear Story Structures from Non-Western Traditions | a Writing the Other Webinar

“Begin at the beginning,” the King said, very gravely, “and go on till you come to the end: then stop.” ― Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland.

Carroll’s king was clearly not a Chinese king. Western storytelling traditions decree that a linear structure (along with the three act structure, the hero’s journey, and a rising self-esteem arc) are mandatory features of any satisfying story. This is Western-centric silliness. In this webinar, author Henry Lien will explore non-linear structures, specifically cyclic and nested structures, using examples from non-Western stories and films.

Students will come to understand how these non-linear structures allow for thematic stacking, embracing of moral complexity, and a synthesis between form and content to explode the idea that a straight line is the best way to tell every story. The webinar emphasizes practical craft takeaways for storytellers to apply to their own works in progress.

• When: February 25th, 2024 | 10AM – 1PM Pacific Time
• Where: Zoom classroom
• Price: $100 [Live Attendance] | $75 [Recording Only]

Financial Aid Available!

For full webinar details, including required texts, accessibility info, and available financial aid, please visit WritingTheOther.com.

Refund Policy

We are not offering refunds for this webinar. If you purchase a ticket for the live session and are unable to make it, you will still get access to the recording.