The Thrill of Discovery in the Creative Process | EP.028

Introduction: Seeking Surprises

As creatives, our constant quest is to discover the new and the unexpected. Whether we’re writers, actors, filmmakers, or any kind of storyteller, our work thrives on surprises—both for ourselves and for our audience. We don’t want to create the same old thing; we want to unearth something fresh, something that feels like an adventure happening in real-time.

But discovery isn’t always about grand revelations. Sometimes, it’s hidden in the most mundane aspects of our everyday lives. These small, seemingly insignificant moments can be where the deepest and most authentic parts of our narratives are found.

The Audience's Journey

When we create, we invite the audience to journey with us. We want them to feel like they’re right there with us, experiencing the highs and lows, the twists and turns. It’s that shared experience that draws them in and makes them care about our work.

So how do we achieve this? How do we make our creations feel alive and authentic? One of the most powerful ways is by allowing the unconscious mind to surface through ordinary, everyday events.

The Power of the Mundane: The Unconscious Revealed

The unconscious mind is a treasure trove of emotions, thoughts, and memories that often reveal themselves in unexpected ways—especially during mundane, everyday moments. It’s not in the big, dramatic scenes that these revelations typically occur, but in the quiet, ordinary experiences that we all go through.

For example, a few years ago, I had a conversation that changed everything for me. I was talking about family with someone, and they asked, “What’s up with your mom?” At that moment, I hesitated because my mom had passed away a couple of years before. I was caught between saying, “She is…” and “She was…” That hesitation, that small pause, brought a flood of emotion to the surface. It was a powerful moment where my inner life was unexpectedly revealed.

This is the kind of moment we should aim to create in our work. It’s in these small, everyday interactions that the unconscious mind can rise to the surface, creating a moment that deeply resonates with the audience.

Inner Life in Narrative: A Classic Example

This concept isn’t just a personal experience; it’s a technique used in some of the most powerful narratives. Take Citizen Kane for example. The film’s entire story revolves around the last word spoken by the protagonist: “Rosebud.” On the surface, it’s just a word, but it carries a deep, personal significance. The quest to understand this word drives the entire narrative and reveals the character’s inner life.

When we as creators place our characters in situations where their unconscious mind can surface, we create richer, more engaging stories. The audience is drawn in, wanting to understand the deeper layers of the narrative.

Practical Techniques for Creators

So, how can you bring this concept into your own work? How can you use mundane events to reveal the inner lives of your characters and create moments of discovery that resonate with your audience?

1. Notice the Mundane

Start by paying attention to the everyday moments in your life. These are the moments that often go unnoticed but can reveal deep truths about your characters. Whether it’s a conversation with a stranger, a routine task, or a quiet moment alone, these moments can unlock the inner life of your characters.

2. Layer in Subtext

When writing or performing a scene, think about what’s happening beneath the surface. What is your character really feeling or thinking? The subtext—the unspoken thoughts and emotions—adds depth and complexity to your story.

3. Trust Your Unconscious Mind

Let your unconscious mind guide you. Some of the