The Music of Storytelling: Keys to Writing a Timeless Tale

Photo Credit to Zudin on Unsplash

Is it your dream to write stories that resonate deeply—stories that don’t fade, that touch hearts and change lives, stories that defy the test of time?

If you answered yes, then you have probably thought through the many difficulties that will arise. It is hard enough for a writer to get a story published—but out of those millions of published books in the world, only a portion are widely read, and even fewer stay for longer than a decade or two.

I often ponder why some stories endure for generations while others, though popular for a brief time, fade away. What sets these timeless stories apart?

As both a musician and a writer, I have discovered many parallels between the two arts. Because of this, I will also be comparing the process of writing to music, exploring the key elements of deep and compelling stories, and how they intersect with the beauty of learning music.

1. Get Familiar with Good Storytelling.

Before I began learning music, I was exposed to it. At a young age, I would listen to a variety of different pieces of music, from lullabies, to hymns, to classics. Because I was exposed at a young age, I naturally became familiar with concepts like rhythm, flow, and dynamics, which made it easier to apply these concepts when the time came. 

Listening, observing, and absorbing are all crucial to learning a new skill. To write well, we should first expose ourselves to the world of books. Read regularly. Absorb. Ask questions: What did you like about this book? What did you not like? How did the book make you feel? What about the book made you feel this way? If we dive deep into reading good books, we will glean far more than just a few skills.

      2.   Master the Basics.

We mustn’t forget that a symphony—or a novel—however profound, is at its core notes built upon notes—or words built upon words. Each note or word contributes to the overall effect, and the beauty and depth of the piece comes from how these elements work together. A symphony or novel’s power often lies in the way these basic components interact, evolve, and resonate together.

Therefore, understanding the fundamentals is crucial in both writing and music. Just as a musician first learns musical notation and theory, a good writer must be adept with language and structure. This means choosing the words that matter, phrasing the right sentences, and crafting paragraphs that flow and add depth and meaning to the overall story. When we master the basics first, this provides a strong foundation for more creative and complex work. But we must first master the basics, and this takes time and practice. 

3.  Have a Unique Theme. 

A unique and memorable theme is vital. For instance, in music, great pieces like Beethoven’s Ode to Joy, Mozart's Rondo Alla Turca, or Dvořák’s New World Symphony have distinctive recurring melodies that many listeners recognize and love. 

In writing, having a unique theme means having the core idea or message woven throughout the book that resonates deeply with readers, evoking emotion and thought. It might be hard to come up with such a grand or unique theme, but that’s absolutely okay. I’ve found that when I keep exploring, keep writing, keep living and experiencing, themes will naturally arise in my heart and my words without force. It takes time and faith, but sometimes that’s what makes it all the more beautiful.

4. Weave a Beautiful Plot.

In both music and storytelling, crafting a beautiful piece means balancing various elements. Questions and answers, rises and falls, swells and surges, reflective moments and intense moments—these and many more, interlaced carefully together, will add together to create a timeless piece. 

For writers like us, structuring a well-crafted plot that flows and engages will enhance the overall impact of a story. A fulfilling conclusion is also of the utmost importance. Just like a musical performance, the ending of a story is the final impression of a work. Let us make it strong and impactful. Let the audience come away from the story with the words and themes of your story echoing in their hearts, long after they have finished reading. 

5. Invest Time and Effort.

To get good at virtually anything, we need to practice, practice, practice. Both musicians and writers need to invest significant time to refine their skills and work. Therefore, we must put in the time and effort. We must keep reading, keep writing, keep learning, keep applying, keep growing. It takes perseverance to overcome challenges, but I believe if we truly love what we do, we will not give it up. Not only will we further develop skills such as determination, problem-solving, and patience, this dedication will pay off in higher quality, more impactful creations.

6. Infuse Heart.

I believe this is the most important key to crafting a timeless tale. Whether in music or writing, deep and authentic emotional expression helps to connect with the audience on a deeper level. This depth, this understanding between author and reader, is what makes a good work into something timeless. 

Audience members can note the difference between someone playing a piece of music just to play and perform it, and someone who performs as part of the music, feeling each note and phrase deep within their heart. 

Likewise, many readers will also notice a stark difference between a story written mostly for the sake of fame and recognition, and a story that has taken significant time, effort, and heart, a story that matters in and of itself, regardless of the amount of fame and number of readers. I think that this is what truly makes a work create its lasting impact. The emotion, the pain, the hopes, the heart, the soul, the humanity behind it—timeless tales live because of the life that was poured into them. 

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Overall, these principles highlight the importance of skill, creativity, dedication, and emotional resonance in creating impactful and enduring works. Before I conclude this post, however, I wanted to remind you something very important.

Your words have an impact. Even if they are just between you and God, regardless of if you share them with many or share them with few, your words matter. The road is long and winding; it is hard to see what obstacles are in the way, or what the end holds. But have faith, and go where God guides you. Don’t give up on the dreams He has set in your heart.

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If you have any personal stories or additional thoughts to share, drop a comment below. I always love hearing what you have to say.