Story by Robert McKee

Last updated: Sep 21, 2023

Summary of Story by Robert McKee

Story by Robert McKee is a comprehensive guide to the art of storytelling. McKee, a renowned screenwriting teacher, delves into the principles and techniques that make a story compelling and memorable.

The book begins by emphasizing the importance of storytelling in human culture and how it has evolved over time. McKee argues that stories are a fundamental part of our existence, serving as a means of communication and a way to make sense of the world.

McKee then delves into the structure of a story, emphasizing the importance of a well-crafted plot. He introduces the concept of the "inciting incident," which sets the story in motion and creates conflict. He also discusses the importance of creating compelling characters and the role they play in driving the narrative forward.

Throughout the book, McKee emphasizes the importance of conflict and its role in creating tension and engaging the audience. He explores different types of conflict, including internal and external conflicts, and provides examples from various works of literature and film.

McKee also delves into the concept of genre and how it influences storytelling. He argues that understanding genre conventions is crucial for writers, as it allows them to effectively engage with audience expectations and create a satisfying story.

In addition to discussing the elements of storytelling, McKee also provides practical advice for writers. He emphasizes the importance of research and preparation, encouraging writers to immerse themselves in their subject matter and develop a deep understanding of their characters and world.

Furthermore, McKee explores the process of rewriting and revision, highlighting the importance of feedback and the willingness to make necessary changes to improve the story.

Overall, Story by Robert McKee is a comprehensive guide to the art of storytelling. It provides aspiring writers with a wealth of knowledge and practical advice, covering everything from plot structure to character development. Whether you are a screenwriter, novelist, or simply interested in the craft of storytelling, this book is an invaluable resource.

1. The Importance of Conflict

In his book "Story," Robert McKee emphasizes the significance of conflict in storytelling. Conflict is the driving force that propels a story forward and keeps the audience engaged. Without conflict, a story becomes stagnant and uninteresting. McKee explains that conflict can take various forms, such as internal conflicts within a character or external conflicts between characters or forces.

By understanding the importance of conflict, writers can create compelling narratives that captivate their audience. They can introduce obstacles and challenges for their characters to overcome, creating tension and suspense. Conflict also allows for character development, as it forces characters to confront their fears, make difficult choices, and grow throughout the story.

2. The Power of Subtext

McKee delves into the concept of subtext, which refers to the underlying meaning or message conveyed indirectly in a story. Subtext adds depth and complexity to a narrative, allowing for multiple layers of interpretation. It involves what is left unsaid or implied, often through non-verbal cues, gestures, or actions.

Understanding the power of subtext enables writers to create more nuanced and thought-provoking stories. By incorporating subtext, they can convey emotions, themes, and ideas in a subtle and impactful way. It adds richness to the storytelling experience and invites the audience to actively engage with the narrative, deciphering the hidden meanings beneath the surface.

3. The Hero's Journey

McKee explores the concept of the hero's journey, a narrative structure that has been used throughout history in myths, legends, and literature. The hero's journey follows a specific pattern, where a protagonist embarks on an adventure, faces challenges and trials, undergoes transformation, and returns home changed.

Understanding the hero's journey can help writers create compelling and relatable characters. It provides a framework for character arcs and plot development, allowing for a satisfying and meaningful narrative. By following the stages of the hero's journey, writers can ensure that their stories resonate with the audience on a deep and universal level.

4. The Importance of Theme

McKee emphasizes the significance of theme in storytelling. Theme refers to the underlying message or central idea of a story. It provides a unifying thread that ties the narrative together and gives it depth and meaning.

By identifying and exploring the theme of their story, writers can create a more cohesive and impactful narrative. Theme allows for the exploration of universal truths, moral dilemmas, and social issues. It gives the story a sense of purpose and resonance, allowing the audience to connect with the characters and their journey on a deeper level.

5. The Role of Dialogue

McKee discusses the importance of dialogue in storytelling. Dialogue is not just a means of conveying information or advancing the plot; it is an opportunity to reveal character, create conflict, and engage the audience.

By crafting authentic and compelling dialogue, writers can bring their characters to life and make them more relatable. Dialogue should reflect the unique voice and personality of each character, allowing the audience to understand their motivations, desires, and conflicts. Well-written dialogue also adds realism and depth to the story, making it more engaging and immersive.

6. The Power of Emotion

McKee highlights the importance of evoking emotion in storytelling. Emotion is what connects the audience to the characters and their journey. It allows the audience to empathize, feel invested, and become emotionally engaged with the story.

By understanding the power of emotion, writers can create stories that resonate with the audience on a deep and personal level. They can evoke a range of emotions, from joy and excitement to sadness and fear, through well-crafted characters, compelling conflicts, and impactful storytelling techniques. Emotion adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it more memorable and impactful.

7. The Art of Structure

McKee delves into the art of structure in storytelling. Structure refers to the organization and arrangement of the story's events and plot points. It provides a framework that guides the narrative and ensures coherence and clarity.

Understanding the principles of structure allows writers to create stories that flow smoothly and engage the audience. It involves elements such as the inciting incident, rising action, climax, and resolution. By mastering the art of structure, writers can create narratives that are well-paced, suspenseful, and satisfying.

8. The Importance of Authenticity

McKee emphasizes the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Authenticity refers to the genuine and truthful portrayal of characters, emotions, and experiences. It involves creating believable and relatable stories that resonate with the audience.

By striving for authenticity, writers can create stories that feel real and honest. They can draw from their own experiences, observations, and emotions to create characters and narratives that are relatable and meaningful. Authenticity allows the audience to connect with the story on a personal level, fostering empathy and emotional engagement.