Annotated Bibliography

Vogler, Christopher. “The Writer’s Journey: Mythic Structure for Writers." Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 1998 p. 127-143

Summary:
The reading was about Stage Five: Crossing the First Threshold. Crossing the first threshold is an act of the will in which the hero commits wholeheartedly to the adventure. If you give up in your mind right away and say I can't do this, chances are you won't be able to do it. It's like deciding to stop drinking or losing weight. It is physically possible, but the actual decision to do it comes from your will. It typically takes the hero some time to think about the adventure before they just step in and say, "yes! I want to do this!".. also, once they decide to do it, there is usually someone there to stop you, called the threshold guardian. This reading also talked about stage six, which is tests, allies, and enemies. A hero will most definitely encounter tests, allies, and enemies throughout their journey. Storytellers use the testing phase to test the hero, putting her through a series of trials and challenges that are meant to prepare her for greater ordeals ahead. It's natural for heroes just arriving in the Special World to spend some time figuring out who can be trusted and relied upon for special services, and who is not to be trusted.

Reflection:
The crossing of the threshold is interesting to me because it focuses on the hero's will to step into the adventure. We've all encountered those threshold guardians, that make us feel like we will never succeed. It could even be not believing in yourself. It is important to make a lot of allies because everyone needs help on their journey.

questions:
What are some of the threshold guardians you've encountered on your adventures?
Why is it important to make allies on your journey?