Choosing a Topic, Theme, or Genre for Your Short Spoken Word Story
Sharing a personal story through spoken word can be a powerful way to connect with an audience, inspire others, and explore your own experiences. However, the process of deciding what to share can be daunting. Here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect topic, theme, or genre for your short spoken-word personal story.
Step 1: Reflect on Pivotal Moments
Begin by reflecting on pivotal moments in your life. Think about experiences that have significantly impacted you, whether positively or negatively. These moments often hold profound lessons and emotions that can resonate deeply with an audience. Consider:
A moment of personal triumph or failure
A significant life change, like moving to a new city or starting a new job
A powerful encounter or relationship
A time when you overcame a challenge or faced a fear
Step 2: Identify Core Emotions
Identify the core emotions tied to these pivotal moments. Emotions like joy, sorrow, anger, and fear are universal and can create an immediate connection with listeners. Ask yourself:
What did I feel during this experience?
How did this emotion influence my actions and decisions?
How do I feel about this experience now?
Step 3: Determine Your Purpose
What do you hope to achieve by sharing your story? Understanding your purpose can guide your choice of topic, theme, and genre. Your purpose could be to:
Inspire others to overcome similar challenges
Offer a new perspective on a common experience
Share a lesson you’ve learned
Foster empathy and understanding
Step 4: Explore Universal Themes
While your story is unique, weaving in universal themes can enhance its relatability. Themes like love, loss, resilience, and transformation are timeless and resonate widely. Consider which themes naturally align with your experiences and emotions.
Step 5: Consider the Genre
Even within the realm of personal stories, you can choose a genre that best fits your narrative style. This can help frame your story and set the tone. Some genres to consider are:
Memoir: Focuses on a specific aspect or period of your life.
Coming-of-Age: Explores growth and personal development.
Inspirational: Aims to uplift and motivate the audience.
Humor: Uses wit and humor to convey your story, often highlighting the absurdities of life.
Drama: Emphasizes emotional depth and conflict.
Step 6: Find Your Unique Angle
Every person’s story is unique, but finding a specific angle or perspective can make your narrative stand out. Think about what sets your experience apart. This could be your cultural background, a particular insight, or an unconventional take on a common situation.
Step 7: Brainstorm and Free Write
Allow yourself some time to brainstorm and free write. Let your thoughts flow without self-editing. Write about different experiences, emotions, and potential themes. This can help you discover connections and identify the most compelling parts of your story.
Step 8: Share and Seek Feedback
Before finalizing your story, share it with a trusted friend or fellow writer. Their feedback can offer new perspectives and help you refine your narrative. Pay attention to which parts resonate most with them and where they might get confused or lose interest.
Conclusion
Choosing a topic, theme, or genre for your short spoken-word personal story is an introspective and creative process. By reflecting on pivotal moments, identifying core emotions, determining your purpose, exploring universal themes, considering the genre, finding your unique angle, brainstorming, and seeking feedback, you can craft a story that is both authentic and engaging.
Your personal experiences hold the power to inspire, connect, and transform—so embrace your truth and share it with the world.