Function – Purpose – Truth

In a recent Lightbox Method Seminar we once again struggled understanding the three levels of meaning. I took sometime to think this through and considered advice given to students that helped break through. So here are some more detailed definitions that may help you with the Lightbox Method.

Function: refers to the author’s reason for the frame. A frame’s function could be to set the scene, introduce a character, increase the stakes, throw a twist, scare the reader, foreshadow a future event; or any other application that moves the story forward.

Purpose: refers to the main characters point of view (POV) in the frame. The purpose is a relational issue that the character has in this frame. What do they believe about the issue the presents itself? Is this a lie or the truth? What is their object of desire that arises out of the issue?

Truth: refers to the big truth that the character may or may not know about. What is the universal truth that will help the main character in this frame if they chose to believe it?

As we attempt to go for the third level of meaning, it would be good to remember that almost all Truth revealed in the Bible is primarily relational. Consider the relationships of the characters in your story, what they want, and what they believe about the relationships and that will lead you to consider whether they believe the truth or a lie.

When we don't know what is real we make something up and that includes our relationships. Every relationship, though, needs the grace of mystery where we leaven the unknown with a question mark and not try to fill it in with speculation.

I hope these suggestions will help you “light up” your next set of lightboxes. Let me know how they work!

Keep writing…