Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting

Robert McKee explains why he wrote Story, what he expects the aspiring writer to learn from it, and eight universal truths of storytelling:

Story is about principles, not rules (3).

Story is about eternal, universal forms, not formulas (3).

Story is about archetypes, not stereotypes (4).

Story is about thoroughness, not shortcuts (5).

Story is about the realities, not the mysteries of writing (5).

Story is about mastering the art, not second-guessing the marketplace (6).

Story is about respect, not disdain, for the audience (7).

Story is about originality, not duplication (8).

With each of these headings the author briefly explores his reasoning, using personal experience and examples from popular films. He presents the overarching idea behind the book (and also behind powerful, masterful storytelling): that screenwriting is less about anticipating the next big Hollywood trend and more about finding universally recognizable truths about the human condition. McKee argues that by embracing archetypes in place of stereotypes, we can present a story that feels real to the audience even if the time and place is somewhere entirely fantastic. It’s this ability to tap into archetypal emotions and conflicts that creates groundbreaking, cult-favorite, Hollywood blockbusters. McKee also explores the idea of true originality, the difference between originality and eccentricity, and the value of a distinctive personal