Arguments

 

A Story is an Argument

For a narrative to enjoy lasting meaning, an argument must form the foundation of its structure.

There is a significant difference between tales and stories. One can be thrown out and quickly disregarded because it has relatively little to stand on. The other offers meaning and emotional resonance that extends far beyond the initial viewing.

A tale is merely a statement: a linear progression from one event to the next culminating in one singular outcome. In contrast, a story is an argument: a course of logical and emotional reasoning aimed at proving that a particular approach is either a good one, or a bad one. Complete stories argue their point in such a way that they leave little for the audience to reject or refute.

A tale, on the other hand, is ultimately forgotten because of the proliferance of exceptions that are inherent to its form. There is no argument being made, no discernible point to it all.

This is why stories are superior. An argument's ultimate goal, after all, is to tell some truth; its purpose is to relay some meaning to an audience. This is where the power of stories lies and is why so many Authors strive to produce them.