Years ago, I read “The Writer’s Journey: Mythic
Structure for Writers” by Christopher Vogler. It's based on Joseph
Campbell’s work with the Hero's Journey (also referenced by George Lucas for
Star Wars). What I didn't know, was that there’s also a Heroine’s Journey.
That journey is the inner journey for the heroine to face
her deepest fears and desires. When she finally faces them, she can come to
terms with herself and her place in the world.
Using that structure has been helpful in plotting my
own novels. That's often been my least favorite part of working on a book.
So, I'll refer to the Heroine's Journey when I'm stuck on a plot point (or
two).
There are different versions of the Journey, but this is the
one I usually use.
1. Perfect World – the heroine’s everyday world
2. Realization/Betrayal – an inciting incident and decision
point
3. Awakening – decision to take the journey
4. Descent – the heroine faces her fears and can’t turn back
5. Eye of the Storm – tests and ordeals
6. The Death – an actual or symbolic death
7. Support – help comes, possibly from the larger community
8. Moment of Truth – rebirth and facing the biggest
challenge
9. Full Circle – heroine returns to the perfect world with
more self-awareness
My story may not include every step, but usually I'll include
these: Awakening, Taking the Risk, Dark Night, Learning to Trust, and
Transformation.
Awakening
Usually the Heroine is being called to level up and experience
something larger.
Taking the Risk
The Heroine answers the call and takes a leap of faith out
of her comfort zone.
Dark Night
It may seem like everything is falling apart, but it’s
really falling together. Unfortunately, the Heroine has to experience this in order to
get what she wants.
Learning to Trust
If she wants to move forward, the Heroine has to accept support
and help from others.
Transformation
Stories start out with a character wanting something. The
Heroine has to get from her starting point to achieving her desires at the end. At the conclusion of the Journey (and the story), she’ll be transformed by her experiences.
The Heroine's Journey & The Hero's Journey
Even though it’s called the Heroine’s Journey, it isn’t
gender specific. Your Hero can also take this journey for his emotional
transformation. (And, female characters can take the Hero’s Journey as well.)
For instance, in my fairy tale inspired novella, "Once
Upon A Princess: Heart of Stone," the princess goes on a quest to find
riches. She needs them to help her people, who are suffering after dark magic
has devastated her lands. But, she's also on an emotional journey that begins
when she meets a shifter who offers her assistance.
LIFE LESSONS
Stories entertain and can also teach us how to deal with adversity. They allow us to
feel exhilaration when the conflicts are resolved.
As your
characters explore their worlds, your readers will be right with them. By using
these journeys as inspiration, you’ll create stories that your readers will
find impossible to put down.
If you'd like to learn more, there are variations of the Heroine’s Journey, including one
by Victoria Schmidt and a version in Kim
Hudson’s book, “The Virgin’s Promise.”
Looking for more reading material while you're sheltering in place?
My book, "Once Upon A Princess Duet: Two Paranormal Fairy
Tales" is on sale for 0.99 on most online bookstores until April 30th.
Included are the novellas, Heart of Stone and Beauty & the Faun.
Universal buy link: https://www.books2read.com/u/m2odkO
