The Story World:
An Organising Principle
The Story World is the system of values and rules that governs your story. It creates meaning through a consistent pattern of consequences.
The Story World In Action
Meaning emerges as the Story World restores balance between opposing values.
Value Imbalance
One value is excessive (rejected), the other is suppressed (favoured).
Character Aligns
Characters make choices based on the values they embody.
Consequences Follow
The Story World rewards alignment with the favoured value and punishes alignment with the rejected value.
Pattern Reveals Meaning
The repeated pattern of consequences reveals what the Story World truly values.
Balance Restored
The suppressed value is validated. The Story World moves back into balance.
What This Means
Meaning is not what your characters say. It’s what the Story World demonstrates through consequences.
Key Takeaway
Design a story with clear value opposition and consistent consequences. That’s how your story will create meaning.