2. Cohesive – Disrupted Narrative
A disrupted narrative challenges the conventional linear narrative we are all used to, such as
Todorov’s theory of equilibrium, disruption, recognition of disruption, attempt to repair disruption
and finally the new equilibrium.
Instead a disrupted narrative has a chunk of it missing. This is done in order to create an enigma
code (Barthes). This element of mystery for the audience keeps them interested and engaged in
the piece of media.
This missing section of narrative is generally revealed in the ending of the media to settle the
questions and mystery the audience have formed.
3. Cohesive – Non-Sequential Narrative
A non-sequential narrative jumbles up the Todorov theory in to a different order.
For example, it could turn out to be Disruption, Recognition of disruption, Equilibrium and then
an attempt to repair the disruption. This is not a linear narrative, as the elements from the theory
are displayed in a totally different manner.
This choice in narrative structure is used in order to achieve an emphasis on a particular part as it
can build tension and suspense further enhancing the audience’s interest in the text.
If the disruption is a major part within a film, for example, then the entire film could be used as a
build up to this major event therefore creating a non-sequential narrative that builds suspense
and keeps the audience intrigued all the way to the very end.
4. Cohesive – Disjointed Narrative
This structure relies on the audience making assumptions on the narrative’s enigma codes.
This is because the narrative often appears to be misleading or false to the audience, and they
therefore revert to making assumptions on the narrative in order to try and make sense of it.
The truth eventually comes out further in to the narrative, and is generally after a number of
major plot twists to ensure the audience are kept interested throughout.
The elements that make up a typical, linear narrative do not have to be shown within this type of
narrative, however they can be present.
5. Non-Cohesive – Ergodic Narrative
An ergodic narrative contains multiple stories within stories. As a result it would be impossible for
it do be in a linear format.
This narrative model can become very confusing for an audience because of the amount of
stories being created without answers.
However it can also be interesting for them because they are constantly waiting for questions to
be answered and their developing confusion to be cleared up.
6. Non-Cohesive – Branching Narrative
A branching narrative involves audience interaction with the text. Different choices the audience
make will have an influence on the text’s narrative.
This is most common in video games because the audience’s interaction is very easy to
incorporate. In a film it is very difficult to include audience interaction.
The audience can feel more included when this narrative is used because they will have a direct
impact on the end result of the narrative.
7. Non-Cohesive – Multi-Linear Narrative
This storyline is similar to the ergodic narrative model previously mentioned in the sense that
there are multiple storylines within the one narrative. In this model however, the different stories
are intertwined and combined with each other or are happening simultaneously.
The audience are always interested because they are waiting for the moment when all of the
stories come together and fit in.
This climactic moment is where all of the audience’s enigma codes and unanswered questions are
resolved.
