#136: First Chapter Analysis: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Fiction Writing Made Easy

Savannah Gilbo

Education, Fiction, Writing Tips, Arts, Bestseller, Writing, How To, Author, Writing Community, Books, Novel, How To Write Fiction, Writing Fiction, Writer, How To Write A Book

4.9 • 1.5K Ratings

🗓️ 2 April 2024

⏱️ 61 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

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Summary

“Usually stakes start personal and they become public. That's a way of raising stakes, regardless of the genre.” - Savannah Gilbo

We’re diving deep into Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins to see how and why it works. Join me and Abigail K. Perry as we break down this first chapter to see how it hooks our interest and pulls us into the story! Here's a preview of what's included:

[05:22] Chapter summary: This chapter focuses on Katniss, who is navigating life after winning the Hunger Games. There is a suggestion of impending conflict or tension on a larger scale and overall, the story explores themes of survival, resistance against oppressive systems, and the complexities of relationships under duress.

[13:31] Macro analysis, using Paula Munier’s 7 Key Questions: Suzanne Collins expertly lays the groundwork for an engaging and suspenseful story. Readers are likely to feel curiosity, concern, and wonder throughout the chapter. They are curious about the unfolding events, for Katniss's well-being and relationships, and intrigued by the dystopian world.

[35:16] Micro analysis, using Story Grid’s 5 Commandments: Overall, this scene marks a turning point in the protagonist’s journey, throwing her into a more dangerous and complex conflict with President Snow. It sets the stage for the central conflicts of the narrative, particularly Katniss's struggle to navigate her public image and maintain her autonomy in a society ruled by fear and control.

[50:21] Final thoughts: This first chapter emphasizes the character development of Katniss and the intricate layers of stakes and decisions that drive the narrative forward. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the complexity of storytelling and the various paths that can lead to a compelling climax.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Check out the LitMarch Podcast with Abigail Perry here! You can also get in touch with Abigail through her website or on Instagram @abigailkperry.
The Writer's Guide to Beginnings by Paula Munier
Story Grid by Shawn Coyne
Read this episode's blog post here!

Want to write a novel but not sure where to start? Click here to grab a FREE copy of my Story Starter Kit workbook that'll help you get clarity on your characters, setting, theme, plot, and so much more!

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Transcript

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0:00.0	Want to write a novel but not sure where to start?
0:02.5	Grab a copy of my free story starter kit workbook by going to savannaGilbo.com
0:06.7	forward slash starter kit.
0:08.3	In this free multi-page guide, I'll walk you through the first five questions to ask and answer before writing any story.
0:15.0	You'll get clarity on your characters, your setting, your theme, your plot, and so much more.
0:19.8	So one more time go to Savannah Gilboe.com forward slash starter kit to grab your free copy.
0:25.1	I think that the first chapter also establishes concern
0:28.8	and affection for these characters
0:30.3	because of how they behave.
0:32.1	Right.
0:33.0	It's like Katness and Peter both take a care of Hayminch and Haymich has kind of his witty observations
0:37.5	and even like the little bit of backstory that talks about why she's getting the alcohol for Hamish and how that scared pram like you
0:45.0	you can just see that these people in this chapter are good people that have just been
0:50.3	victimized yeah that makes you care about them.
0:56.0	Welcome to the fiction writing made easy podcast. My name is Savannah
0:59.7	Gilboo and I'm here to help you write a story that works.
1:03.0	I want to prove to you that writing a novel doesn't have to be overwhelming.
1:06.0	So each week I'll bring you a brand new episode with simple, actionable,
1:10.0	and step-by-step strategies that you can implement in your writing right away.
1:14.4	So whether you're brand new to writing or more of a seasoned author looking to
1:17.9	improve your craft, this podcast is for you. So pick up a pen and let's get
1:22.0	started.
	...

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