Storytelling Hack: Fight, Fold, & Show (No "Genius" Required)

Hey Past-me,

Got a story cookin, but don't know where to start?

You've prolly heard the advice: "Build intricate worlds!" "Characters must be flawed!" "Save the cat!"

Problem: Everyone's heard the advice.

Here's one thing I learned: Compelling stories aren't built—they're unfolded. Think less "epic blueprint” and more origami: hidden creases, layered folds, one striking reveal.

These are the type of insights that separate "cookie cutter content" from “core memory implanting experiences”(*chef's kiss*).

In today's letter, I'll give you 3 quick storytelling tips that evolve the conventions.

[ ESTIMATED_READTIME: 2 minutes and 7 seconds ]

In the box:

• 3 Storytelling Tips: Fight, Fold, + Show

• 2 Perfect Examples: Celeste + UP

• 1 Retro Gem: Music Land

3 Storytelling Tips

⚔️ 1. Turn Weaknesses into Weapons

• Flaws = Empathy glue (we stan hot messes, not goddesses)

• Let their “weakness” save the day

• Flaws aren’t just obstacles—they’re physics

🗺️ 2. Plot on an Origami Map 

• Fold first, then unfold (setup → payoff)

• / Hide secrets in the creases /

• Demand active audiences (not passive consumers) → be sure to balance confusion and clarity

🎨 3. Paint Pictures, Not Paragraphs

• Use sensory details to imply backstory (make settings scream subtext)

• Show, don't tell: subtext > exposition, turn audiences into detectives

2 Perfect Examples

Celeste

• Story becomes a gameplay mechanic -> Madeline's anxiety literally splits her into a shadow self she must confront

UP

• UP's Married Life montage says more in silence than dialogue (the music elevates emotions even further; I never not cry when seeing this😭)

1 Retro Gem

• A star-crossed lovers’ tale reimagined in a musical wonderland

Anyone can tell a story.

Remember: there are no rules, only tools.

These days, we're flooded with forgettable "content.”

Find tools that help you create stories that stay with you, like tattoos.

Anyway, that’s it for the stash this week.

Hope you found something useful.

Talk to you soon,

—Future-you

Say hi on TwitterX/IG/LinkedIn

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