Writing a Trickster Tale

Outline

What are the elements that make up a Trickster Tale? Some of the characters that show up in them have a strong character, who might be a little arrogant or evil--out to get the trickster figure. There's often a slow character who's easily fooled. The trickster is someone without power who has to live by his or her wits.

Consider the strong and weak powers in “Coyote and the Buffalo” by Mourning Dove.

Are your characters in a jungle? A desert? Under the sea? Antarctica?

This tale can take place in any setting you’d like. Be creative!

1.Start by Picking your Setting

Your story will need characters who are both weak and strong.

What animals or people might inhabit the setting you’ve chosen?

Your characters should make sense with your setting. If not, there should be a purpose for the character being out of place.

2. Brainstorm Your Characters

Choose a character who has no power.

This character should become your trickster!

3. Pick a Character

This character SHOULD be powerful and morally sound.

This character can be sweet and giving or arrogant and evil.

You can decide what his/her personality traits are.

4. Pick another Character

Possible a slow witted character that the Trickster can manipulate.

Or this could be a figure that gets over on the actual trickster! (Think of the old woman!)

5. Pick another character

All of your characters should have a distinct personality.

6. Personality Traits

Do you remember how Coyote was avoiding destruction by crying for his spirit helper?

How was he overly greedy and vain? How did his egotism deter him from his

greatest desires(bones/liver)?

How can the Trickster use his/her wits to solve their problem?

7.What is the Tricksters problem?

You have an outline for your very own Trickster Tale.

Don’t forget a title and heading!

AND NOW…..