Last Thursday, Michael Thompson joined Tom and I to lead our very first Substack Campfire storytelling mini-course.
The new format was a success. During the call, we spent most of the time workshopping Michael’s core ideas into mini memoirs that campers had written.
Below is a version of the transcript edited by AI.
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I. Introduction
Michael Thompson, a renowned storyteller and writing coach, shares his profound insights and techniques for crafting captivating stories in this comprehensive masterclass. Thompson delves into the art of noticing compelling moments, structuring engaging introductions, and imbuing stories with emotional depth and universal resonance. Through a combination of practical advice, illustrative examples, and interactive exercises, Thompson guides aspiring writers on a journey to unlock their storytelling potential and create narratives that leave a lasting impact on readers.
The main themes covered in this masterclass include:
Developing a keen eye for noticing story-worthy moments in everyday life
Structuring introductions using techniques like conversation, introspection, and action
Creating emotional resonance through relatable experiences and universal themes
Crafting memorable lines and endings that stick with readers
Thompson emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, authenticity, and tapping into the poetic memory of life's beautiful moments. He provides a framework for collecting and cataloging these experiences, which serve as the raw material for crafting powerful stories.
The insights shared in this masterclass have far-reaching implications beyond the realm of writing. By learning to notice and articulate the profundity in small moments, individuals can cultivate a deeper appreciation for life, foster empathy, and forge stronger connections with others. The storytelling techniques taught by Thompson have the potential to enhance communication skills, leadership abilities, and personal growth.
II. Key Terminology and Concepts
Poetic memory
CIA framework
Tiny, beautiful human things
Stickiness factor
"Poetic memory": Thompson introduces the concept of the brain's "poetic memory," which "records everything that charms or touches us, that makes our lives beautiful." This idea serves as the foundation for noticing and collecting story-worthy moments. "The brain appears to possess a special area which we might call poetic memory and which records everything that charms or touches us, that makes our lives beautiful." Thompson suggests that tapping into our poetic memory is essential for crafting authentic, emotionally resonant stories. By training ourselves to recognize and record these moments, we build a rich repository of material to draw from in our writing.
"CIA" framework for article introductions: Thompson presents the "CIA" framework as a memorable acronym for structuring engaging story introductions:
Conversation: Begin with dialogue that piques curiosity and draws readers in
Introspection: Reveal the protagonist's internal thoughts, fears, or doubts to create relatability
Action: Start with a compelling event or scene that immediately captures attention
"90% of them start one of three ways and they spell CIA, just because it's memorable for me. So it's either a conversation, introspection so this is your, uh, your self-talk, um, being scared, fear, doubt, uh, insecurity is super relatable. And then the typical one that you see all the time is action." By employing one of these three techniques, writers can effectively hook readers from the very first lines of their stories.
"Tiny, beautiful human things": Thompson emphasizes the importance of noticing and celebrating the small, poignant moments that make us human. He encourages writers to "train your eye to cut through the noise" and "make a point to spot just one speck of human beauty." "Making a point to spot just one speck of human beauty will always be a solid way to go about your day." By focusing on these "tiny, beautiful human things," writers can infuse their stories with authenticity, relatability, and emotional depth. These moments serve as the foundation for crafting narratives that resonate with readers on a profound level.
"Stickiness factor": Thompson discusses the concept of creating memorable, "sticky" lines and endings that leave a lasting impact on readers. He suggests using physical details and sensory associations to make abstract lessons more concrete and memorable. "This is really important in terms of stickiness factor and getting your messages lodged into people's heads is making it a physical thing." By tying emotional lessons to tangible objects or experiences (like associating forgiveness with french fries), writers can create endings that stick with readers long after they finish the story.
These key concepts form the backbone of Thompson's storytelling philosophy. By developing a poetic memory, employing the CIA framework for introductions, celebrating tiny human moments, and crafting sticky endings, writers can create stories that captivate, inspire, and transform readers.
III. Rhetorical Analysis
A. Logical structure:
Thompson's masterclass follows a clear, logical progression from high-level concepts to specific techniques and practical applications. He begins by introducing the foundational idea of "poetic memory" and the importance of noticing story-worthy moments. From there, he delves into specific frameworks (like the "CIA" acronym) for structuring engaging introductions. Thompson then provides concrete examples and interactive exercises to help participants apply these concepts in their own writing.
This logical flow allows participants to gradually build a comprehensive understanding of Thompson's storytelling philosophy. By starting with the bigger picture and then zooming in on specific techniques, Thompson ensures that each lesson builds upon the previous ones, creating a cohesive learning experience.
B. Emotional appeals:
Throughout the masterclass, Thompson skillfully employs emotional appeals to engage participants and illustrate the power of storytelling. He shares personal anecdotes, like the story of his son's first Barcelona football game, to evoke feelings of nostalgia, joy, and human connection. These emotional examples serve to underscore the importance of tapping into universal human experiences when crafting stories.
Thompson also uses emotional language to convey the profound impact that storytelling can have on both writers and readers. Phrases like "train your eye to cut through the noise" and "writing is self-awareness, it's thinking, it's all of that stuff" speak to the transformative power of the written word.
By weaving emotional appeals throughout the masterclass, Thompson not only maintains participants' engagement but also demonstrates the very techniques he is teaching. He shows, rather than simply tells, how emotional resonance can elevate a story from forgettable to unforgettable.
C. Narrative techniques:
Thompson employs several effective narrative techniques to illustrate his points and keep participants engaged. One notable example is his use of metaphor and figurative language. When discussing the concept of "stickiness," Thompson likens memorable lines to a "fly on a honey biscuit." This vivid image helps participants grasp the idea of creating lines that linger in readers' minds.
Another narrative technique Thompson uses is the power of three. When introducing the "CIA" framework, he presents three distinct options for structuring introductions: conversation, introspection, and action. This triadic structure makes the concepts easier to remember and apply.
Thompson also employs the technique of "show, don't tell" throughout the masterclass. Rather than simply lecturing about storytelling principles, he demonstrates them through examples and interactive exercises. This hands-on approach allows participants to experience the power of these techniques firsthand, deepening their understanding and retention of the material.
D. Persuasive techniques:
One of Thompson's most effective persuasive techniques is his use of social proof. Throughout the masterclass, he references successful writers and storytellers who have employed the techniques he teaches. By invoking names like Ryan Holiday and his examples from real life, Thompson lends credibility to his ideas and reassures participants that these principles have been tested and proven effective.
Thompson also uses the persuasive technique of repetition to reinforce key concepts. He frequently reiterates the importance of noticing small moments, being vulnerable in one's writing, and crafting memorable lines. This repetition helps participants internalize these ideas and recognize their centrality to Thompson's storytelling philosophy.
Finally, Thompson employs the persuasive power of personal anecdotes to illustrate his points. By sharing stories from his own life, he not only demonstrates the practical application of his techniques but also establishes a sense of authenticity and relatability. Participants are more likely to be persuaded by ideas that are grounded in real, lived experiences.
E. Positioning:
Throughout the masterclass, Thompson positions his storytelling philosophy as an alternative to more formulaic or superficial approaches to writing. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and depth over gimmicks or tricks.
For example, when discussing the use of quotes in writing, Thompson suggests using personal anecdotes and quoting real people in one's life, rather than relying on famous quotes from well-known figures. He positions this approach as more authentic and impactful, as it draws from the writer's own experiences and connections.
Thompson also positions his ideas as a way to stand out in a crowded and noisy world. By focusing on the tiny, beautiful moments that others might overlook, writers can create stories that cut through the noise and forge genuine connections with readers.
Overall, Thompson's rhetorical strategies serve to engage, persuade, and inspire participants. By using emotional appeals, narrative techniques, persuasive devices, and strategic positioning, he effectively conveys the power and potential of his storytelling philosophy.
F. Potential effectiveness for different audiences:
The rhetorical strategies employed by Thompson are likely to be effective for a wide range of audiences, particularly those with an interest in writing, storytelling, or personal development.
For aspiring writers, Thompson's techniques offer a roadmap for crafting compelling stories that resonate with readers. His emphasis on authenticity, vulnerability, and emotional depth is likely to appeal to writers who want to create meaningful, impactful work.
For individuals interested in personal development, Thompson's ideas about noticing and celebrating small moments of beauty can be a powerful tool for cultivating gratitude, empathy, and self-awareness. His stories and examples illustrate how paying attention to these moments can enrich one's life and relationships.
Even for those not directly involved in writing or personal development, Thompson's masterclass offers valuable insights into effective communication and storytelling. His techniques for structuring engaging introductions, creating memorable lines, and evoking emotional resonance can be applied in a variety of contexts, from public speaking to marketing to interpersonal interactions.
However, it's worth noting that Thompson's emphasis on vulnerability and depth may not resonate with all audiences. Some individuals may prefer a more straightforward, less emotionally involved approach to storytelling or communication. Additionally, those looking for a quick-fix or formulaic approach to writing may not find Thompson's philosophy as appealing, as it requires a willingness to engage in self-reflection and a commitment to authenticity.
Despite these potential limitations, the overall effectiveness of Thompson's rhetorical strategies lies in their ability to inspire, engage, and challenge participants to approach storytelling with greater intentionality and depth. By providing a framework for noticing and articulating the profound in the everyday, Thompson empowers individuals to create stories that have the power to transform both writer and reader.
IV. Key Insights & Practical Applications
A. The power of noticing and capturing small moments:
One of the key insights from Thompson's masterclass is the importance of developing a keen eye for noticing and capturing story-worthy moments in everyday life. He encourages writers to tap into their "poetic memory," which "records everything that charms or touches us, that makes our lives beautiful." By training ourselves to recognize and record these small moments of beauty, humor, or poignancy, we build a rich repository of material to draw from in our writing.
Practical application: Carry a notebook or use a note-taking app on your phone to jot down observations, overheard conversations, or fleeting thoughts throughout your day. Regularly review these notes and look for patterns, themes, or moments that spark your curiosity or evoke an emotional response. Use these captured moments as prompts for freewriting or as starting points for crafting fuller stories.
As Thompson notes, this practice of noticing and recording can also enrich our lives beyond writing:
"It changes how you view the world and also how you view other people. I started writing for me, but as you continue doing it, you kind of start to see like you're becoming all of other people also, their quirks, their nuances. I like human beings again, so it's kind of interesting because I'm comfortable in me."
B. Crafting engaging introductions using the "CIA" framework:
Another key insight from the masterclass is the importance of crafting strong, engaging introductions that hook readers from the very first lines. Thompson presents the "CIA" framework as a memorable acronym for structuring compelling openings:
Conversation: Begin with dialogue that piques curiosity and draws readers in
Introspection: Reveal the protagonist's internal thoughts, fears, or doubts to create relatability
Action: Start with a compelling event or scene that immediately captures attention
Practical application: When drafting a story or essay, experiment with different opening lines and paragraphs that employ one of these three techniques. For example:
Conversation: "'I can't believe you just said that,' she whispered, her eyes widening in disbelief."
Introspection: "As I stood at the edge of the cliff, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was about to make a terrible mistake."
Action: "The car screeched to a halt, its headlights illuminating the dark, deserted street."
Try out multiple versions of your introduction, each employing a different "CIA" technique, and see which one most effectively grabs your reader's attention and sets the tone for your story.
C. Using storytelling techniques to create emotional resonance:
A third key insight from Thompson's masterclass is the power of storytelling techniques to create emotional resonance and forge lasting connections with readers. He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, authenticity, and tapping into universal human experiences to create stories that linger in readers' minds and hearts.
Practical application: When developing a story idea, ask yourself: What is the emotional core of this narrative? What universal human experiences or emotions does it tap into (e.g., love, loss, fear, joy, belonging)? How can I infuse my characters and their arcs with authenticity and vulnerability?
As you draft your story, look for opportunities to layer in specific, sensory details that make the emotions feel vivid and tangible. Use figurative language (like metaphors and analogies) to help readers connect abstract feelings to concrete images and experiences.
For example, in describing a character's grief, you might write:
"The weight of her sorrow pressed down on her chest like a boulder, making each breath a struggle. The once vibrant colors of her life had faded to a dull, lifeless gray, as though a part of her had been ripped away, leaving behind a ragged, gaping hole."
By focusing on the emotional truth of your story and using evocative language to bring that truth to life, you can create narratives that resonate deeply with readers and linger in their hearts long after they've finished reading
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