Researching to write a better story is often misunderstood, with some writers envisioning themselves buried in books and scrolls.
They fear losing their way in a sea of unrelated stories and getting overwhelmed. On the other hand, some view research as a mere fact-checking exercise, a necessary but uninspiring task. However, for professional storytellers, research can be so much more. It serves to enrich existing stories and ignite inspiration for new ones, introducing them to new communities, people, and concepts, and shedding new light on familiar subjects.
Research becomes a powerful tool in combating writer’s block and infusing stories with originality.
The key is to embrace the idea that research can be conducted in diverse ways beyond traditional library visits and archival digging.
While those methods are valuable, interviewing subject matter experts, immersing oneself in the world of characters, visiting relevant locations, and even creating collages to view life through a character’s eyes can all be effective ways to gather knowledge.
Furthermore, research need not be confined to well-organized files; it can serve as a driving force, propelling the story forward and leading to a more thoughtful and enriched creative process.
Ultimately, a consistent and creative research practice can enhance not only the quality of storytelling but also the overall depth and meaning of one’s life.
Two stages that require research
Storytelling involves two main stages that require research: idea generation and writing.
In the idea generation stage, writers often struggle to find unique and captivating ideas for their stories.
While some may turn to popular formulas, true storytellers seek inspiration through free research.
By exploring untapped subjects and thinking outside the box, writers can create a wellspring of inspiration that fuels their creativity.
It’s essential to document all findings, even those not immediately used, as they contribute to an endless source of potential stories waiting to be told.
Once a writer is actively working on a story, targeted research becomes crucial. Not only does it ensure accuracy in the narrative, but it also presents an opportunity to enrich characters and develop original plot twists.
However, writers should be cautious not to overwhelm the story with excessive information or showcase their knowledge. Every piece of research should serve the overall narrative and enhance the storytelling experience.
Regardless of the stage of writing, having a starting point for research is essential.
One technique to kick off the research journey can be used for each of the main stages. These techniques act as stepping stones, setting writers on the right track and paving the way for a rewarding research process.
It’s crucial to remember that these examples are not the only methods available; numerous other research approaches can be tailored to suit each writer’s unique needs and preferences.
The key is to find the techniques that resonate most with the story being crafted and to embrace research as a powerful tool in the storytelling arsenal.
Targeted research for your writing project
In the process of enriching your character’s portrayal, don’t forget to explore their hobbies and hidden talents. Imagine your single father in the vibrant city of Mumbai, secretly a semi-professional saxophone player. Perhaps, in his younger days, he aspired to be a renowned jazz musician, dreaming of touring the world with his mesmerizing music. To breathe life into such a character, seek out actual sax players and engage in meaningful conversations with them.
During these interviews, dive into their love for music, inquire about their dreams—those fulfilled and those left unachieved.
Observe their body language while they play and immerse yourself in their world of musical passion.
Remember that each person is unique, so talk to multiple individuals who represent various aspects of your character’s life.
By merging the insights gained from these interactions, you’ll craft a distinctive, multi-dimensional character who becomes relatable and captivating to readers.
Moreover, this research approach transcends genres.
Whether you write sci-fi, fantasy, or any other genre, characters’ emotions and interactions remain central to your story’s appeal. Exploring their psychology is essential to create authentic and believable characters, regardless of the fictional world they inhabit.
As a storyteller, your ultimate goal is to resonate with real people living on this planet today, and a well-researched, multi-faceted character will undoubtedly bring your narrative to life in a way that connects with your audience.
Every corner of the world holds a treasure trove of untold stories, waiting to be explored and woven into captivating narratives.
If you find yourself in need of creative inspiration, immersing yourself in the essence of a specific location can work wonders for your storytelling.
Begin by selecting a place that ignites your curiosity, whether it’s a quaint local park or a picturesque Italian village you’ve always yearned to visit.
Before embarking on your research trip, arm yourself with some general information about the location.
Delve into its history, architectural marvels, and any events that have left a mark on its significance to the people. Capture all these intriguing facts on paper, but keep them aside for now—letting them simmer in your mind.
Once you arrive at your chosen destination, give yourself the gift of time to observe and absorb the environment surrounding you. Witness how individuals interact with the setting and watch as animals respond to their natural habitat.
Immerse yourself in the sensory experience—the sights, sounds, and scents—that define this place’s character.
As you stroll through its streets, take note of the small plaques or inscriptions on walls, for they might hold hidden tales of the past.
The architecture, too, bears a narrative of its own, shaping the identity and collective memory of the community it stands in.
At this stage, you need not dive deeply into exhaustive research; instead, focus on capturing the details that pique your curiosity, as these non-obvious trails may lead you to the heart of a great story waiting to be unveiled.
Embarking on historical storytelling requires a keen eye for detail and a curious mind that seeks to unravel the hidden narratives of the past.
Begin your journey by asking questions – not just to others but to yourself as well.
Engage in casual conversations with those around you, seeking to understand the cultural tapestry and social dynamics of the location you’re exploring.
Remember, every place has its own unique (sub)culture, even seemingly ordinary settings like a zoo or neighborhood theater. Immerse yourself in the essence of the place, for it is here that you’ll find inspiration for intriguing characters, captivating scenes, and compelling narratives.
During your research, keep a record of the terms and impressions you associate with the location.
Blend factual information with emotional insights, documenting not only crucial historical dates but also people’s feelings during significant interactions.
When you return home, give yourself time to let the experience sink in.
Your story idea might materialize as you take a leisurely walk, read a book, watch a movie, or prepare a meal.
However, if the inspiration eludes you, don’t worry. After a day or two, revisit your notes and start cross-connecting your findings.
Combining seemingly unrelated observations is a powerful technique for generating original and captivating stories.
Once the kernel of your idea starts to take shape, you can move on to developing a more focused research plan.
At this stage, consider incorporating other research techniques, such as conducting interviews, diving into archival records, or adopting a form of “method writing” to fully immerse yourself in the world of your story.
However, the initial step is to venture out into the world, allowing it to whisper its untold stories to you—both those written in history and the ones waiting to be discovered.
This research technique serves as the bedrock for constructing a historical narrative worth telling and cherishing.