Your Hero’s Journey
The hero is the secret ingredient that makes a story truly amazing. Their quest or journey takes us on a thrilling ride, whether it's through a whirlwind romance, a dramatic bank heist, leaving for college, or any other exciting adventure.
And when they finally come back (even in a metaphorical sense), they're never the same again.
The moment they make that bold decision to embark on their quest. It's called crossing the threshold, and it's a seriously pivotal moment. Not only does it push the story forward, but it also symbolizes the hero stepping into the great unknown.
They leave behind their familiar world and dive headfirst into the challenges that lie ahead. Can you feel the excitement tingling in your veins? In terms of the story's structure, crossing the threshold often aligns with the inciting incident. It's the point where the inciting incident forever changes the hero's world.
It could be because they have encountered something terrifying or a revolutionary idea that symbolizes the fears they must overcome to venture into unfamiliar territory. Or maybe it's as simple as walking out the front door to escape a toxic relationship, leaving behind their childhood home for the first time, or embarking on a new job in a different city.
Whatever that act may be, it marks the hero's courageous crossing into a new existence. Let's look at some fantastic examples of crossing the threshold in beloved stories: In J.R.R. Tolkien's epic tales, like "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit," both Frodo and Bilbo embark on their own quests. They leave the safety of the Shire and their cozy homes, symbolically crossing that threshold into a new, perilous, and extraordinary world. Remember when Samwise Gamgee says in the movie version of "The Fellowship of the Ring," "If I take one more step, this will be the furthest from home I've ever been"?
Moments like these resonate with readers and viewers alike. And who could forget "The Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum and the iconic 1939 MGM film? When Dorothy gets swept away by a tornado in Kansas and finds herself in the enchanting Land of the Munchkins, she says to her dog, “I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore, Toto.” That's an obvious example of crossing a threshold. But her quest truly begins when she sets foot on the yellow brick road, determined to find the Wizard of Oz.
Different thresholds in our lives
There are so many exciting thresholds we encounter in our lives, and our heroes in stories face them too. First up, we have physical journeys. These are the moments where our heroes take active steps, like boarding a plane, entering a new city, driving off in a car, or simply walking out the door and leaving home. It's all about venturing into the great unknown and embarking on an adventure. But not all thresholds are just physical. The emotional and psychological journey is just as important.
Metaphorical transitions are those moments when our heroes face emotional challenges like starting a new job, ending a relationship, or confronting their fears. These moments shape their character and push them to grow.
Crossing a threshold often leads to a significant shift in a character's arc. They might experience a change in perspective, alter their approach to relationships or situations, or make tough choices. These internal shifts are the building blocks of personal growth.
Now, let's talk about some tips for effectively incorporating these thresholds into your plot and exploring the steps your hero faces once they cross that threshold.
First up, we have the GUARDIAN
This is the obstacle that our hero must overcome to enter the new world. The guardian represents their internal demons, scars, and vices that hold them back. It's like a test they must face and conquer to prove their readiness for the challenge ahead. But remember, this guardian doesn't have to remain an enemy forever. Once the hero faces their guardian and takes those first steps over the threshold, they enter the unknown. They leave everything they once knew behind and find themselves in a brand-new world. It's a mix of excitement and nerves as they navigate this uncharted territory.
Next comes the TRANSFORMATION PHASE.
This is where our hero undergoes a period of growth and change. They must face trials, overcome obstacles, and confront the enemies that hold them back. Each experience molds them into a stronger and wiser version of themselves, forever altered by their journey. But the story doesn't end there. At some point, our hero will face their greatest trial and adversity. It's a crisis that pushes them to their limits.
Once they conquer this hurdle and undergo their transformation, they begin their JOURNEY BACK TO THE ORDINARY WORLD.
They must reintegrate with the wisdom and revelations they've gained and make a positive impact on the world around them. This road back can be a journey in itself, with its own set of challenges and triumphs. Remember, embracing your hero's journey is a powerful way to connect with readers who are facing their own challenges and seeking growth and change. By crafting stories that mirror these universal experiences, you can inspire and uplift others through the lives of your fictional heroes.
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