The power of three: A key writing principle

The power of three: A key writing principle
27 Apr 2024

Good writing can make or break a film.

And, while solid narrative backing is a must-have, formulaic scriptwriting only enhances the end product.

The power of three is a key writing principle that significantly influences sentence construction and plot development.

This principle suggests that concepts, situations, and ideas are more easily understood when presented in groups of three.

Let us understand the concept in detail here.

It functions on 3 levels- sentences, scenarios, and stories
Triadic expressions

According to Studio Binder, this triadic structure functions on three levels: sentences, scenarios, and stories.

The power of three manifests in various forms such as Hendiatris, where a single idea is expressed through three words like "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," and Tricolon, where three parallel elements share a similar word or syllable count such as "veni, vedi, vici."

Power of three in marketing slogans and film titles
Triadic influence

Apart from scriptwriting, the power of three is prevalent in marketing slogans and film titles, like The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly or Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. An Indian example is Love Sex Aur Dhokha.

In story or movie scenarios, characters often devise plans or actions in sets of three.

For example: "He's going to attack the princess's transport ship, take her prisoner, then destroy her home planet."

The most important point is typically reserved for last.

It complements 3-act structure, also cinematographic rule of thirds
Triadic narratives

The power of three forms the foundation for the time-honored three-act structure suggesting that every narrative thrives with an introduction, development, and conclusion.

This principle also applies to character relationships on a larger scale. Famous examples include The Three Musketeers, Harry Potter trio: Harry, Ron, and Hermione, or Bella, Edward, and Jacob from Twilight.

Power of three complements the rule of thirds in photography, too. It refers to dividing the screen into three parts to better focus on the subject.