From the moment we learn our first words and see our first pictures, we absorb thousands of stories that teach us how to live and be in the world.
Narratives are the themes and ideas that are carried in collections of stories. To illustrate the relationship among narratives, messages, and stories, check out the Waves Model.
Narrative defines what we imagine is possible and why we want it, what we aspire to become and how, and whether we feel we have power with or over others–or none at all. The people with the most to gain or lose in systems of inequity build power when narratives include their stories, voices, and experiences.
At Narrative Initiative, we believe that narrative is the work of organizing ideas. Successful movements have organized people, organized money, and organized ideas.
Social change moves in proportion to narrative power.
Our Definitions
Story
A story describes an event or sequence of events that include characters, conflict, and imagery. It has a beginning, middle and end.
Frame
A guide that directs people where to look and helps them interpret what to see.
Narrative
Narratives are the ideas and themes that permeate collections of stories. The ideas can appear in any structure, and are articulated and refined repeatedly in a variety of stories and messages.
Deep Narrative
Deep narratives are the stickiest themes and ideas that have permeated stories for more than 50 years.
Big Ideas In Your Inbox
What is Narrative?
Narratives are the ideas and themes that are carried through collections of stories.
