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American Quote by Graham Linehan

“Whenever I write for television, I plan the story on whiteboard wallpaper in my office, using a system created by the American writer Dan Harmon. It's remarkably simple: a character wants something; they enter a new world and adapt to it; they get what they want, re-enter the old world and change.” quote by Graham Linehan
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“Whenever I write for television, I plan the story on whiteboard wallpaper in my office, using a system created by the American writer Dan Harmon. It's remarkably simple: a character wants something; they enter a new world and adapt to it; they get what they want, re-enter the old world and change.”

Graham Linehan

About This Quote

Source Interview: 2012 Podcast

Story structure: character desire, new world, adaptation, return, change.

In simple terms: Story follows desire‑world‑return loop.

Key Takeaway

Apply this framework to craft narratives.

Themes

storytelling structure character development

Mood

analytical creative

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • filmmaking
  • education

Key Concepts

narrative design psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When to deviate from the pattern?
  • How does this help character growth?
A Different Perspective

Rigid formula can stifle originality.

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