Screenwriting Book - The Writers Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers

The Writers Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers
By: Christopher Vogler
Third Edition
Michael Wiese Productions
2007

A book about an approach to screen writing based on observations of the author on consistent character archetypes and story elements over feature films, right back to ancient mythical tales and explains why they work by linking it to the times of human tribes fighting for survival. The structure of this writing theory hits home on a primal level. Not a blueprint, but a good way to approach planning and writing.

“The values of the hero’s journey are what’s important. The images of the basic version – young heroes seeking magic swords from old wizards, maidens risking death to save loved ones, knights riding off to fight evil dragons in deep caves, and so on.” 

What this book taught me:-

It taught me a great deal considering I have read a few book on screen writing and everything in this book was original and pretty new to me. The idea that archetypes of characters are masks that can be worn by different characters instead of being a single person, the idea that all stories have certain structural elements that even in different orders, can provide a fascinating story. I really liked how it helps you to understand the nature and possible origins of these teachings through cultural heritage. The archetypes and the story structure elements will hold it's own place on my wall in front of my computer because it's usefulness seems to have immense possibilities. The way in which he helps you understand that all the characters are within yourself, they are reflections of the human condition is truly helpful. It further helps you understand the system of relationship dynamics that make up films and their translation from a screenplay. 

“Having survived all the ordeals, having lived through death, heroes return to their starting places, go home, or continue the journey. But they always proceed with a sense that they are commencing a new life, one that will be forever different because of the road just travelled. If they are true heroes, they Return with the Elixir from the special world.”

Should you buy it?:

I can't recommend this book higher enough. It is an absolute gem and a diamond. It is a true elixir of knowledge and worth a read for writers, directors, producers, cinematographers, production designers, film critics and anyone and everyone who enjoys the marvellous art of cinema. You should 100% read it.  

“Stories create energy or exert force through polarities that organise the elements present into opposing camps with contrasting properties and orientations. Polarity is an essential principle of storytelling, governed by a few simple rules but capable of generating infinite conflict, complexity, and audience involvement.”
 

Link to buy: (copy&paste)

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Writers-Journey-Structure-Christopher-Productions/dp/B00E28KPJC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1421154379&sr=8-2&keywords=the+writers+journey+mythic+structure+for+writers+3rd+edition