The structure. The words. The content. The beauty. The emotions. The impact. The characters. The drama. The memories. The visuals. The personality. The message.
I can list more and more parts that make up a brilliant and meaningful story, man’s most important invention. The fact that the mind can string together events -- whether fictional, factual or a mixture of both -- and form a continuous stream of thoughts that encompasses an entire meaning while containing an endless amount of detail is a powerful gift. A gift which we most certainly have grown and harvested through the use of technology so that all may reap from its crops. Word of mouth, books, film, and even video games are some of the ways we have told stories and each one has its own benefits.
But why do stories hold such high importance? Why have human beings recounted and created tales for generations? Is it because of the entertainment value? Is it due to our innate desire for bigger and better experiences that are not possible in our own reality? I believe the importance is because of these and more.
I believe a story can change a life or at least alter a lifestyle. Just listening to an inspirational story -- such as Elie Wiesel's novel "Night" or the accounts of Charles A. Lindbergh -- can positively manipulate your being to force your desires and dreams into reality; however, the tale does not have to be true. Fiction also possesses a high place among the ranks -- think of a fan base. They not only gather together and dress up as their favorite characters and debate which television or video game series is better; they express their passion that holds a special place their personal identity. As story without passion would have no meaning and, therefore, die off and lie forgotten.
Speaking of tales that could never be forgotten -- William Shakespeare’s works. His words influence our language and his plots influence our hearts. While the story of “Romeo and Juliet” was not his original idea, he made it everlasting. So much so that it is still being referenced and recreated in the modern era. The idea that certain stories last through the ages is seen in many authors and their works. If it were not for Victor Hugo’s original novel, there would be no epic musical “Les Miserables.” Without Homer’s historic piece, "The Iliad," the Trojan War could be lost in our history books. Without Tolkien’s brilliant "The Lord of the Rings"
trilogy, a landmark of filmmaking would not exist. These examples are just the beginning sample of the long-lasting stories presented to this world. However, this small sampling only mentions books that have lasted centuries.Video games and movies can accomplish the very same, they have just not been around for nearly as long. For video games, think of the “Final Fantasy” series. These stories mesmerized gamers since day one and still paint epic tales of science-fiction and fantasy. Personally, “Final Fantasy” holds a special place in my heart because the series created an unbreakable bond between my brother and me ever since I was a child and he was a slightly older child. I am not sure I would be as interested in gaming if is was not for him or “Final Fantasy.”
As for a movie example, “It’s a Wonderful Life” is a Christmas story that holds up even today. Families still flock to the television to watch how an angel gets its wings. I remember first watching this movie in elementary school when my love for film was just beginning. I remember feeling emotional when all of George Bailey’s friends and neighbors donated whatever they could to help alleviate his deficit. I think of that moment even now whenever I give whatever money I can to a church or to someone in need. Even though I personally do not watch “It’s a Wonderful Life” as an annual Christmas tradition, I will forever remember what I felt during that first viewing and how it changed my beliefs of donating what I have to others.
As you can see, there are many mediums over which a story can be told. However, the most impactful story is your own. Your experience exemplifies the plot of your lifetime and you decide where it leads. Like one of those “Choose Your Own Adventure” books, except there is no context or a fictional plot or any black or white decisions. I guarantee that if you write your story the way you want it to be you will not only lead a happier life, but also give yourself a meaningful tale to read during your final moments.
