Insights from ‘Storyworthy’ by Matthew Dicks Flashcards
What is the fundamental truth that all great stories share according to Matthew Dicks?
All great stories tell the story of a five-second moment in a person’s life.
Define the ‘five-second moment’ in storytelling as described by Matthew Dicks.
It is the moment when a person realizes their life will never be the same.
True or False: To create a compelling story, one must start with an ordinary event and escalate towards a five-second realization moment.
True
Give an example of a five-second moment.
Realizing you are capable of more than you thought, such as at mile 25 of a marathon.
Fill in the blank: The key to making a five-second moment significant is to start a story in ____ to that moment.
stark contrast
What transformation does Indiana Jones undergo in ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’?
He goes from a non-believer in the Ark’s religious power to having enough faith to close his eyes as the Ark is opened.
Complete the phrase: ‘I once thought this, but now I think ____.’
this
What three storytelling techniques are recommended to convey a five-second moment?
Start with action, misdirect, and pause before the big reveal.
Why should you start a story with action?
To immediately involve the audience in the story and create anticipation for what will happen next.
How does Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Dark Knight’ exemplify starting with action?
It begins with an intense bank robbery scene.
Describe the ‘misdirect’ technique in storytelling.
Introduce a plan, assumption, or expected event, then derail it or reveal something unexpected.
Provide an example of a misdirect from the ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ movie.
The plan to rob a Las Vegas casino appears set but goes off-track, building suspense and tension.
What is the effect of delaying the big reveal in a story?
It builds suspense and engages the audience, making the reveal more impactful.
True or False: Adding unnecessary details before a reveal can help build suspense in storytelling.
True
According to Dicks, why is sharing personal stories powerful?
It helps people feel they are not alone.
