Meaning: Laura Innes, an accomplished actress, has succinctly captured the essence of storytelling in her quote: "We try to be driven by what's a good story, what's truthful, and the drama of what happens next." This quote encapsulates the fundamental principles that guide the creation and appreciation of stories across various forms of art and entertainment, including literature, theater, film, and television.

At the heart of storytelling is the concept of a "good story." A good story captivates its audience, drawing them into a world created by the storyteller. It engages the audience's emotions, intellect, and imagination, leaving a lasting impact long after the story has been told. A good story has the power to entertain, inspire, provoke thought, and evoke empathy. It often features compelling characters, a well-structured plot, and thematic depth, all of which contribute to its resonance with the audience.

Furthermore, Innes emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in storytelling. While stories can be fictional or fantastical, truthfulness in this context refers to the authenticity and emotional honesty conveyed through the narrative. A truthful story resonates with the audience because it reflects genuine human experiences, emotions, and dilemmas. It can convey universal truths about the human condition, offering insights into the complexities of life and relationships. Whether grounded in realism or imbued with elements of fantasy, truthfulness in storytelling fosters a deep connection between the audience and the narrative.

In addition to the pursuit of a good story and truthfulness, Innes highlights the significance of the drama of what happens next. This aspect underscores the inherent tension, conflict, and anticipation that drive the narrative forward. The drama of what happens next propels the story, creating suspense, excitement, and unpredictability. It keeps the audience engaged and invested in the unfolding events, eager to discover the outcomes and resolutions. This element of storytelling is crucial in sustaining the audience's interest and maintaining the momentum of the narrative.

In practice, these principles guide storytellers, whether they are writers, directors, playwrights, or actors, in their creative endeavors. Writers strive to craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers, while directors and playwrights seek to stage captivating performances that transport audiences into the world of the story. Actors, like Laura Innes, embody characters and bring them to life, infusing their portrayals with the nuances of a good story, truthfulness, and the dramatic tension of what happens next.

Beyond the realm of entertainment, these principles also apply to non-fiction storytelling, such as journalism and documentary filmmaking. In these contexts, the pursuit of a good story involves uncovering compelling narratives that inform, enlighten, and raise awareness about real-world issues. Truthfulness is paramount, as these forms of storytelling aim to present accurate and verifiable information to their audience. The drama of what happens next in non-fiction storytelling may involve unfolding events, societal changes, or the impact of human actions on the world.

In conclusion, Laura Innes's quote encapsulates the essence of storytelling, emphasizing the pursuit of a good story, truthfulness, and the dramatic tension of what happens next. These principles form the cornerstone of captivating and impactful storytelling across various mediums, shaping narratives that entertain, enlighten, and resonate with audiences worldwide.