THE WRITER’S JOURNEY (1992) by Christopher Vogler helped me realize that good stories are everywhere, and they have a definite structure related to a spiritual desire present in us all. Vogler explains the “Mythic structure for storytellers and writers” by using examples of great literature and movies to prove that our favorite tales resonate so deeply with so many people because they follow the path of the age old legend of the hero. By mythic structure Vogler highlights the ground breaking studies of philosopher Joseph Campbell in his work called THE HERO WITH A THOUSAND FACES published in 1968. As I explain briefly to my students, a myth expresses a means by which to understand. Myths present understanding in a way that the human mind appreciates. Mythology tells a story using metaphors or symbols to represent ideas and allows the reader to come to their own decisions, to arrive at their own unique comprehension of why something is the way it is. Reading THE WRITER’S JOURNEY showed me the validity of arranging a work of fiction so that the character and reader simultaneously discover the inevitable changes inherent with every hero’s journey.
“A myth is a special kind of story that deals with the gods or the forces of creation, and the relationship of those forces to human beings. Not all modern stories are myths, not do they all have mythic dimensions, but the stories we tell today have much in common with the ancient energy of myths. The structural patterns and archetypal characters of myths provide the basis of all modern storytelling, and all writers should be familiar with these elements.” (THE WRITER’S JOURNEY, Christopher Vogler.)
There are five primary areas of practice to the Writer Wellness plan. Every other week I will post an idea for relaxation (Monday Meditation,) creative play (Tuesday Tickle,) fitness and exercise (Wednesday Workout,) journaling and misc. (Thursday Thought,) and nutrition (Friday Feast.)
Meanwhile, remember to look for a digital or print copy of Writer Wellness, A Writer’s Path to Health and Creativity at Who Dares Wins Publishing, http://whodareswinspublishing.com.
And check out these great blogs for ideas to keep your writing and publishing healthy and prosperous.
http://writeitforward.wordpress.com/ Bob Mayer
http://jenniholbrooktalty.wordpress.com/ Jenni Holbrook
http://warriorwriters.wordpress.com/ Kristen Lamb
http://inspiration4writers.blogspot.com/ Inspiration for Writers, Inc.
http://pentopublish.blogspot.com/ Natalie Markey
http://amyshojai.com Amy Shojai
Check out my new website Joy E. Held
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Be well, write well