Douglas Vigliotti on Aristotle for Novelists — The Writing Coach 213

Welcome back to The Writing Coach! In our latest episode, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Douglas Vigliotti, author of the upcoming book Aristotle for Novelists. Douglas brings Aristotle’s Poetics to life, showing how its ancient principles still resonate in modern storytelling. We dive deep into the building blocks of a great narrative, from mastering the three-act structure to understanding the profound impact of character believability. Douglas also explains the essential difference between comedies and tragedies and why understanding this distinction can transform your writing. In the episode, we cover topics such as: Aristotle’s Plot Principles: How a change in fortune and a connected sequence of events create a cohesive story. Character Crafting: The four characteristics of a “true” character and why they matter. Believability vs. Realism: Why stories don’t need to be realistic but must always feel believable.  Dealing with Criticism: Aristotle’s timeless approach to fair criticism and how writers can embrace feedback without losing their confidence. Story Planning for Every Writer: Whether you’re a plotter or a pantser, Aristotle’s principles can help you refine your narrative. We also had some fun comparing storytelling techniques from Aristotle to modern masters like George Lucas, David Mamet, and even the creators of South Park. Douglas’s passion for storytelling is contagious, and his ability to bridge the gap between ancient philosophy and contemporary writing makes this interview a must-listen. Douglas doesn’t just talk theory—he offers actionable insights that any writer can apply. His practical approach to Aristotle’s teachings will inspire you to revisit your current projects with fresh eyes and a deeper understanding of story mechanics. Listen Now!