Unlocking the Secrets of Screenwriting: Essential Reads Revealed
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Chapter 1: Must-Read Books for Screenwriters
In a recent interview, Charla Lauriston, a renowned screenwriter and mentor at The Werking Writer School, shared her insights on essential readings for aspiring screenwriters. One standout recommendation is John Truby's The Anatomy of Story.
Film Courage: Charla, what makes this book indispensable for screenwriters?
Charla Lauriston: Many new writers grapple with understanding story structure. They often fail to recognize how naturally storytelling flows through us. Personally, I’m not the best storyteller; in social settings, I tend to narrate in a disorganized fashion, jumping from one part to another. Nevertheless, the essence of the story remains intact. The thrill of engaging friends with a story, building anticipation for its conclusion or punchline, is a universal experience.
Truby's Anatomy of Story effectively deconstructs storytelling, illustrating its organic nature and inherent presence in our lives. It emphasizes that storytelling is a fundamental human skill, rich with patterns and structures we all naturally understand. While I may struggle to articulate this fully, Truby's method highlights the commonalities in narratives, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to hone their storytelling skills.
Watch the full interview with Charla Lauriston to delve deeper into her recommendations and insights.
About Charla Lauriston
Charla Lauriston is a television writer and the principal mentor at The Werking Writer School. This program equips new and aspiring screenwriters, who have at least one completed script, with the tools necessary for successful careers in television writing. Over a five-week course, participants learn to cultivate self-confidence, navigate the intricacies of the Writer's Room, build professional networks, and develop personalized productivity systems. Besides her work in screenwriting, Charla is also a comedian, writer, and director based in Vancouver and Los Angeles.
Section 1.1: The Importance of Story Structure
Understanding story structure is pivotal for writers. Charla emphasizes that many newcomers to screenwriting often overlook this essential aspect of storytelling.
Subsection 1.1.1: Overcoming Storytelling Challenges
Section 1.2: Additional Insights from Charla Lauriston
In her journey, Charla has come to appreciate the nuances of storytelling, and her recommendations reflect a deep understanding of the craft.
Chapter 2: Embracing the Writer's Journey
Another insightful video titled How To Be A Lazy Writer And Still Get Work Done features Charla Lauriston discussing productivity tips for writers.
In this engaging session, Charla shares strategies that allow writers to maintain their creative flow without succumbing to burnout.