The Art of Dramatic Writing: Its Basis in the Creative Interpretation of Human Motives : Book Review

"The Art of Dramatic Writing" by Lajos Egri is a comprehensive guide for aspiring playwrights and screenwriters. It offers valuable insights and practical advice on how to craft compelling and meaningful stories.

Egri begins by stressing the importance of a well-developed premise. He explains that a strong and clear central idea serves as the foundation for the entire work. Throughout the book, Egri dissects the various elements of a play or screenplay, including character development, conflict, and structure. He provides numerous examples and exercises to help readers apply these concepts to their own writing.

What sets this book apart is Egri's emphasis on understanding human psychology. He delves into the motivations and desires of characters, emphasizing the need for believable and relatable individuals. By exploring the depths of human emotions and behavior, Egri teaches readers how to create characters that resonate with audiences.

Egri's writing style is clear, concise, and engaging. He offers practical techniques and tips that can be immediately applied by writers at any stage of their career. The book also includes insightful analysis of famous plays and films, which helps readers gain a deeper understanding of dramatic writing.

Overall, "The Art of Dramatic Writing" is an essential resource for anyone interested in honing their craft as a playwright or screenwriter. Egri's expertise and guidance make this book a must-read for aspiring writers who want to create compelling and impactful stories. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this book will undoubtedly help you on your journey to becoming a successful storyteller.

What are readers saying?

"The Art of Dramatic Writing" written by Lajos Egri is a highly acclaimed and well-received book that has garnered overwhelming praise from readers. This insightful guide explores the techniques and principles essential for creating compelling and effective dramatic writing, making it an indispensable resource for aspiring playwrights and screenwriters.

Readers have lauded the book for its informative and engaging content. They appreciate Egri's thorough explanations and meticulous analysis of various aspects of dramatic writing, including character development, plot structure, and conflict. The author's clear and concise writing style is also commended, as it facilitates easy understanding and comprehension of the material.

A recurring theme in the reviews is the practicality and applicability of the advice presented in the book. Readers find Egri's techniques and principles valuable not only for writing for the stage or screen but also for other forms of storytelling. They believe that the book equips them with invaluable tools to enhance their writing skills and craft more engaging narratives.

The inclusion of examples from well-known plays and films is another aspect of the book that resonates positively with readers. These examples effectively illustrate how the discussed principles have been successfully applied in famous works of art, inspiring readers and helping them grasp the concepts more effortlessly.

Furthermore, readers appreciate the book's emphasis on character development. Egri's approach to creating well-rounded and believable characters is regarded as insightful and practical. By highlighting the significance of delving into characters' motivations and desires, the book provides readers with a valuable resource for crafting compelling narratives.

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