
Episode 219 - How to get our story going.
From Essential Guide to Writing a Novel by James Thayer
May 29, 2026 · 25 min
About this episode
The episode discusses essential elements to consider when starting a story and the technique of using contrast in scenes.
Here is a checklist of things we likely should think about as we begin our first chapter: some elements to have in the beginning pages of our story and some things to avoid. Also: the strong technique of using contrast in consecutive scenes so that lights shine on both scenes. Support the show Buy the master class.
People in this episode
Host: James Thayer
Topics covered
- storytelling
- writing techniques
- first chapter
- scene contrast
- novel writing
Keywords
- first chapter
- story elements
- writing checklist
- scene contrast
- novel writing
More episodes of Essential Guide to Writing a Novel
- Episode 221 - Writing that is more intense than real life. · June 12, 2026 · 24 min
- Episode 220 - Cut to the chase. · June 5, 2026 · 30 min
- Episode 218 - Our writer's voice. · May 22, 2026 · 27 min
- Episode 217 - Why and how to practice. And Edgar Alan Poe. · May 15, 2026 · 27 min
- Episode 216 - Too many characters is a scene. · May 8, 2026 · 27 min
- Episode 215 - The ratchet, a strong plotting tool. · May 1, 2026 · 26 min
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