What If Premise

Definition

The what if premise is a foundational concept in storytelling that poses a hypothetical scenario, inviting exploration of the consequences that follow. It serves as a catalyst for generating plot ideas and character motivations, helping writers to craft stories that resonate with audiences by challenging the norms or introducing fantastical elements. This premise can also be used to define and shape genre conventions by establishing the rules and expectations of a particular genre, whether it's science fiction, fantasy, or drama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The what if premise encourages creativity by allowing writers to step outside reality and explore scenarios that may not be feasible in real life.
2. This premise is particularly effective in genres like science fiction and fantasy, where extraordinary events can challenge the audience's suspension of disbelief.
3. Writers often use the what if premise to establish character arcs, asking questions like 'What if this character made a different choice?'
4. The effectiveness of a what if premise can hinge on how relatable or plausible the hypothetical situation feels to the audience.
5. Many successful films and novels are built around strong what if premises, leading to memorable stories that provoke thought and discussion.

Review Questions

• How does the what if premise help writers develop their stories within specific genres?
  • The what if premise allows writers to create unique narratives by proposing hypothetical scenarios that align with genre conventions. For example, in science fiction, a common question might be 'What if humans could travel through time?' This type of premise not only sets up the story but also shapes its direction, characters, and conflicts, making it essential for genre-specific storytelling.
• In what ways does a strong what if premise enhance audience engagement with a story?
  • A strong what if premise captures audience interest by presenting intriguing scenarios that provoke curiosity and emotional investment. By posing questions that challenge reality or societal norms, such as 'What if aliens invaded Earth?', writers create stakes that compel viewers to keep watching or reading. This engagement is heightened when audiences relate to characters' dilemmas arising from these premises.
• Evaluate the significance of the what if premise in creating high concept narratives and its implications for modern storytelling.
  • The what if premise is crucial in developing high concept narratives because it distills complex ideas into easily communicable hooks. For instance, films like 'Inception' thrive on an engaging what if scenario regarding dreams within dreams. This approach not only attracts attention but also influences how stories are marketed and received in today's media landscape. By leveraging such premises, creators can push boundaries and explore innovative themes while appealing to broad audiences.

Related terms

Genre Conventions: The established norms and expectations that define the characteristics of a specific genre, guiding audience perceptions and writer decisions.

High Concept: A narrative approach where the premise is easily communicated and understood, often relying on a striking 'what if' scenario to attract attention.

Inciting Incident: An event that sets the main story into motion, often triggered by the what if premise, leading characters into conflict or change.