Meander, Spiral, Explode
Book • 2019
Jane Alison's 'Meander, Spiral, Explode' presents an alternative approach to narrative structure by drawing on forms found in nature, such as spirals and meanders, rather than conventional linear plots.
Alison argues that many stories — particularly those centered on interiority, memory, and non-linear experience — are better served by these organic shapes.
The book offers examples, exercises, and theoretical grounding to help writers match form to material.
It has become influential among writers seeking to experiment with structure in fiction and nonfiction.
The work encourages readers to reframe expectations about plot and embrace forms that mirror the dynamics of natural processes.
Alison argues that many stories — particularly those centered on interiority, memory, and non-linear experience — are better served by these organic shapes.
The book offers examples, exercises, and theoretical grounding to help writers match form to material.
It has become influential among writers seeking to experiment with structure in fiction and nonfiction.
The work encourages readers to reframe expectations about plot and embrace forms that mirror the dynamics of natural processes.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 0 episodes
Mentioned by ![undefined]()
Lidia Yuknavitch
#187: Lidia Yuknavitch — Writing from the Body, Finding Your Core Metaphors, plus The Memoir That Became a Kristen Stewart Film
