“In constructing the plot and working it out with the proper diction, the poet should place the scene, as far as possible, before his eyes. In this way, seeing everything with the utmost vividness, as if he were a spectator of the action, he will discover what is in keeping with it, and be most unlikely to overlook inconsistencies.”
- 384 BC – 322 BC
- Originating from Macedonia in ancient Greece
- Philosopher and scientist, founder of the Lyceum academy
- A student of Plato, he constructed systematic knowledge in logic, biology, politics, ethics, etc., and had a major impact on the development of Western thought and science
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Quote
“In constructing the plot and working it out with the proper diction, the poet should place the scene, as far as possible, before his eyes. In this way, seeing everything with the utmost vividness, as if he were a spectator of the action, he will discover what is in keeping with it, and be most unlikely to overlook inconsistencies.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle advises that when crafting a story or plot, a poet (or storyteller) should immerse themselves fully in the scene they are creating, imagining it vividly as if they were witnessing the events firsthand. This approach allows the poet to ensure that the details and actions align with the overall narrative and characters, helping to avoid any inconsistencies or contradictions in the story. By mentally placing themselves in the action, the poet can more easily identify what fits naturally into the narrative, making the story feel more authentic and cohesive.
This concept is relevant today in the context of storytelling and scriptwriting. Writers, filmmakers, and other creators often talk about the importance of visualizing scenes and characters in order to craft a more immersive and believable experience for the audience. This technique of mentally placing oneself in the scene ensures that the narrative flows smoothly and that all elements are aligned, from the actions of characters to the dialogue they speak.
For example, a director of a film may carefully visualize a scene in detail, imagining how each character moves, speaks, and reacts to the surroundings, ensuring that the scene is logically consistent and emotionally powerful. Similarly, in literature, a writer might mentally walk through the setting of a scene to make sure the atmosphere, characters’ actions, and events flow naturally and coherently. Aristotle’s quote highlights the importance of mental clarity and consistency in storytelling, allowing the creator to see the narrative unfold vividly in their mind before bringing it to life for the audience.
