For some authors, applying Dramatica at the beginning of a creative project might be inhibiting. Many writers prefer to explore their subject, moving in whatever direction their muse leads them until they eventually settle on an intent. In this case, the storytelling comes before the structure. After completing the first draft, such an author can look back at what he has created with the new understanding he has arrived at by the end. Often, much of the work will no longer fit the story as the author now sees it. By telling Dramatica what he now intends, Dramatica will be able to suggest which parts of the existing draft are suitable. It will also show which parts are not suitable, and what is missing. In this way, the creative process is both free and fulfilling, with Dramatica serving as analyst and collaborator.

Following the Muse

Some authors write with no intent at all. They apply themselves to recording their journey through a topic or subject or simply wander, musing. The resulting work is almost always open to all kinds of interpretation, yet may elicit strong emotions and conclusions in almost everyone who sees the work. Even when an author meanders, he does so with the same mental tools everyone shares. So although no intended message might be sent, the subconscious patterns of the author's mental processes are recorded in the work. For those authors who prefer a more freeform approach, a Grand Argument Story is nearly useless. It is not that the Dramatica model cannot describe the nature of their communication. Rather, a freeform author simply has no need of it.

Dramatica as a Tool

None of the creative techniques an author might use are better or worse than others. They are simply different approaches to the creative process. The key is to find the ones that work for you. Sometimes what works is not to create a full argument, but to break the rules, shatter expectations, and play with the minds of your audience members. Even here Dramatica can help. Because it defines a complete argument, Dramatica aids in predicting the effect that breaking an argument will have on the message going to the audience. It can describe how the communication has been altered. When all is said and written, Dramatica provides authors with a tool for understanding the process of communication, whenever they want it.