How can you structure a memorable presentation narrative using classic fairy tales?

1 The hero's journey

One of the most popular and universal story structures is the hero's journey, which consists of three main stages: the departure, the initiation, and the return. The departure is when the hero leaves their ordinary world and faces a call to adventure. The initiation is when the hero encounters challenges, allies, enemies, and a final ordeal. The return is when the hero comes back with a reward, a lesson, or a transformation. You can use this structure to frame your presentation as a journey that you and your audience embark on together, with a problem to solve, a solution to discover, and a benefit to gain.

2 The setting

The setting is the time and place where the story happens, and it can have a significant impact on the mood, tone, and theme of your presentation. You can use the setting to establish the context, relevance, and urgency of your topic, as well as to create contrast, suspense, or surprise. For example, you can start your presentation with a familiar or realistic setting that introduces the status quo, and then shift to a different or fantastical setting that reveals the opportunity or challenge. Think of how fairy tales often begin with "once upon a time" or "in a faraway land" to transport the readers to a different world.

3 The characters

The characters are the people or entities that drive the story forward, and they can have different roles, motivations, and personalities. You can use the characters to connect with your audience, to illustrate your points, and to inspire action. For example, you can present yourself as the guide or mentor who helps the audience (the hero) overcome their fears or doubts and achieve their goals. You can also introduce other characters, such as the villain (the problem or obstacle), the ally (the solution or support), or the shapeshifter (the unexpected twist or complication). Think of how fairy tales often feature archetypal characters, such as the wicked witch, the fairy godmother, or the trickster.

4 The plot

The plot is the sequence of events that make up the story, and it can have different patterns, twists, and turns. You can use the plot to structure your presentation in a logical and coherent way, as well as to create interest, tension, and resolution. For example, you can follow a simple plot structure that consists of an exposition (the introduction), a rising action (the build-up), a climax (the turning point), a falling action (the aftermath), and a denouement (the conclusion). You can also add some plot devices, such as flashbacks, foreshadowing, or cliffhangers, to spice up your presentation. Think of how fairy tales often follow a cause-and-effect logic, where actions have consequences and problems have solutions.

5 The theme

The theme is the central idea or message that the story conveys, and it can have different levels, meanings, and implications. You can use the theme to communicate your purpose, value, and vision, as well as to appeal to your audience's emotions, values, and beliefs. For example, you can state your theme explicitly or implicitly, depending on how direct or subtle you want to be. You can also reinforce your theme throughout your presentation, using repetition, analogy, or symbolism. Think of how fairy tales often express universal themes, such as love, courage, or justice, that resonate with different cultures and generations.

6 The style

The style is the way you tell the story, and it can have different elements, such as tone, voice, language, and visuals. You can use the style to enhance your presentation and to showcase your personality, creativity, and expertise. For example, you can adopt a tone that matches your topic, audience, and objective, such as formal, informal, humorous, or serious. You can also use a voice that reflects your identity, perspective, and attitude, such as confident, friendly, or passionate. Moreover, you can use language and visuals that are clear, concise, and catchy, such as metaphors, anecdotes, or images. Think of how fairy tales often use a distinctive style, such as rhyme, repetition, or illustration, to make the story memorable and enjoyable.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?