Dynamics

Dynamics are the Appreciations that define the story’s emotional promise and forward momentum. They shape how the audience experiences change, what drives the narrative forward, and how the story ultimately resolves. In Dramatica, Dynamics are not optional—they are the high-level commitments that give every Storyform its distinct feel.

Character Dynamics

Character Dynamics describe how the Main Character experiences personal change:

• Resolve — Change or Steadfast.
• Growth — Start or Stop.
• Approach — Do-er or Be-er.
• Problem-Solving Style — Linear or Holistic.

These Dynamics define the Main Character’s internal journey and determine how the audience emotionally tracks the story.

Story Dynamics

Story Dynamics describe how the Objective Story unfolds:

• Story Driver — Action or Decision.
• Story Limit — Optionlock or Timelock.
• Outcome — Success or Failure.
• Judgment — Good or Bad.

Together, these Dynamics create the audience’s final emotional verdict: Was the Goal achieved, and did it feel worthwhile?

Using Dynamics in Subtxt and Narrova

• In Forming, Dynamics help lock the Storyform’s emotional commitments.
• In Illustrating, Dynamics keep Storybeats honest to the chosen arc and Outcome.
• In Narrova, you can ask for alternatives or confirmations that stay aligned to the current Dynamics.

IMPORTANT

If you change a Dynamic late in the process, revisit the Four Throughlines and Plot Storypoints. Dynamics ripple across the entire Storyform.