The first version of this book hit the market in 1994. It holds up pretty well for its age. Sure, we've tweaked the language a bit here and there. We've even broadened and deepened our understanding of the Dramatica theory of story. But happily, our initial concepts remain true and sound.

We've spent a lot of time discussing story theory and teaching it to others. One big problem we've found in talking about "story," is that there are as many definitions of story elements as there are writers. Ask any three writers to define "theme" and you may end up with three or more different answers. Dramatica strives to solve this problem by providing terminology with specific definitions. And there is a LOT of terminology in Dramatica. With that volume of terminology has come a tremendous benefit. Writers can now talk to other writers about abstract concepts:and understand each other better than ever before.

Before you explore Dramatica's take on story, let's find out what you think stories are about. Ask yourself the following questions. If you want, take moment or two to write your answers down on a sheet of paper. Be as specific as you can. You may find it interesting (and surprising) to read your answers again after reading this book.

•Why do you think stories exist?

•Why do you like to tell stories?

•Why do you like to listen to stories?

•What is your definition of a story?

•What is a character?

•What is a theme?

•What is a plot?

•What is a genre?

•What isn't a story?

One of the most noticeable changes since the first edition of this book are the changes in some of the Dramatica terminology. If you are new to Dramatica, you won't notice these changes. If you're a long time Dramatica supporter, here's a list of the changed words:

New Term = Original Term

Overall Story = Objective Story

Impact Character = Obstacle Character

Main vs. Impact = Subjective Story*

Throughline = Domain

Situation = Universe

Activity = Physics

Fixed Attitude = Mind

Manipulation = Psychology

How Things Are Changing = Progress

Gathering Information = Learning

Developing A Plan = Conceptualizing

Conceiving An Idea = Conceiving

Playing A Role = Being

Changing One's Nature = Becoming

Memories = Memory

Impulsive Responses = Preconscious

Contemplation = Conscious

Innermost Desires = Subconscious

Symptom [element] = Focus [element]

Response [element] = Direction [element]

Issue = Range

Benchmark = Stipulation

Main Character Growth = Main Character Direction

Main Character Problem-Solving Technique = Main Character Mental Sex*

Logical / Linear = Male* [Mental Sex]

Intuitive / Holistic = Female* [Mental Sex]

Story Driver = Story Work

Story Point = Appreciation

* The original term is used in this version of the theory book in lieu of the new term.

Enough said. Now, kick back and enjoy the read.

Chris Huntley

Glendale, California