As a consultant and story theorist, I often receive manuscripts from fellow writers and my students. Like many in the writing community, I'm constantly on the lookout for that next groundbreaking tale, that spark of brilliance waiting to be discovered.
Having perused and critiqued numerous manuscripts, I've noticed a recurring issue that plagues many aspiring authors:
A lack of a compelling concept.
Often, writers settle on a concept from the outset that, even in its best iteration, falls short of what captivates readers.
Frankly, it's disheartening. I find myself immersed in a story where the narrative structure, characters, dialogue, and descriptions are all adequate—some even excellent. Yet, deep down, I know the manuscript is unlikely to gain traction, let alone be published. It's especially frustrating because articulating why it falls short is challenging. All I can pinpoint is that the original idea lacks a certain something—a quality I've dubbed the "Stranger's Lure."
What good is a concise, straightforward premise for a novel if it doesn't enthrall the reader - and, more importantly, the agent/acquisitions editor?
Understanding the Stranger's Lure
I understand this might sound whimsical, but hear me out. Combine "strange" (meaning unique) with "attractor" (derived from "attractive," signifying compelling), and you get "strange attractor"—something distinctive yet gripping. It's a shorthand for emphasizing that your novel's concept should be both unique—something unprecedented—and alluring, with an aspect that's compelling, enticing, and intriguing. An element so ingenious and captivating that it leaves people wondering why they hadn't thought of it first. So compelling, in fact, that publishers are eager to invest in it.
You might call it a hook, a gimmick, or a twist. In literary circles, it's akin to what Hollywood terms a "high concept"—a novel idea that can be summarized in one or two sentences. While "high concept" could substitute for "strange attractor," I find the latter more precise. What's the use of a succinct, straightforward idea for a novel if it doesn't draw readers in? For instance:
"A woman inherits a haunted mansion and must uncover its dark secrets to save her family."
This premise, while intriguing, might not suffice to carry an entire novel. Even if a novel were eventually crafted and executed well, it might struggle to find an audience.
From a publishing perspective, then, this concept might not generate much excitement or pave the way for aspiring writers. A slightly improved idea, purely from a commercial standpoint, could be:
"A woman inherits a haunted mansion and discovers she has the power to communicate with its restless spirits; she must unravel their mysteries to break a centuries-old curse."
While this may sound cliché, it possesses a discernible stranger's lure—the twist of the protagonist communicating with spirits to unravel the mystery. Perhaps it could be written as a mystery with profound statements about heritage and the unseen world. Even with this arguably mediocre example, the essence remains clear. Consider some stronger examples:
"A young girl discovers a hidden portal in her backyard leading to a parallel world, where she must rescue her kidnapped twin brother."
"A group of retirees form a detective agency to solve cold cases in their retirement community."
"A struggling artist inherits a paintbrush that brings his creations to life, but at a dangerous cost."
"A woman wakes up in a world where everyone's memories of her are different, forcing her to unravel the truth about her identity."
These ideas provoke an "aha" moment. You sense that exploring them will unveil intriguing scenarios and engrossing drama. A good attractor must do just that—captivate readers, appeal to their senses. The best ones delve into aspects of the human condition that are specific, universal, and preferably unexplored.
Now, you might be wondering—is this truly essential? When will we discuss the actual process of writing? I must stress—
YES, THIS IS CRUCIAL.
Especially for novice writers. After all, consider what you're aiming to achieve. You want:
Publishers to invest years bringing your project to life;
Editors to be enamored with your idea among the countless manuscripts they receive annually;
Readers to see your novel as a standout among the myriad choices available;
Critics view it favorably, compared to other releases, past and present;
Countless individuals worldwide to purchase and enjoy your novel, perhaps repeatedly, and recommend it to others.
To accomplish all this, you must embed a stranger's lure into your novel. You need to identify it precisely and discuss it as confidently as you would characters, themes, and plotlines.
The Stranger's Lure.
Don't embark on writing your precise story without one.
Next, we'll delve into how you can craft your very own.
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