How to Write a Satire by Michael Pendley
I. Satire is a mean to allow people to point out societies faults. With satire, the person attacks their opponent or issue in a joking manner in hopes of changing people’s perception on the matter. Let there be no question the use of satire is a full on attack however, the weapon used is wit.
II. The exact form of satire I have chosen to cover is that found in modern animated cartoons more specifically South Park.
· Soon into your initial writing phase, you will want to add an overall theme for the episode. The theme will be what is the main idea and reoccurring thought in the storyline. Usually this is what you focus your satire on.
· Once you have decided your main theme. You will want to design a storyline that will be able to portray this theme. The writers of South Park typically chose the most outrageous characters and situations to address their theme. This adds to the overall humor of the storyline.
· Along with your satirical humor, there must be other jokes to mellow the overall mood of the show. As a writer, you do not want your satirical works to come off as preaching or rash. Instead, you want to maintain an element of good humor throughout your work.
· After developing your ideas on what you want your satirical piece to be themed towards you will want to develop your story line. Up to this point, you have only decided on what you plan to express through your writing.
· In making your storyline you will want to produce a story that somehow ties together all your hidden themes. It may be hard at times to bring together your random thoughts but when put together properly it can make your piece great. Your story will want to incorporate all your characters and normal tendencies that you will possibly want to make a reoccurring action.
· Reoccurring actions are scattered all throughout South Park. The actions they choose to repeat are typically funny and quickly become fan favorites. An example of this is the never-ending tradition of having Kenny die unexpectedly in each episode.
· If done properly your storyline will incorporate all of the themes that you stressed interest in revealing. Under these circumstances, South Park writers have the potential to affect the public tremendously.
III. DO’S & DON’TS
· Do not let possible social repercussions dictate what themes you chose to expose. Regardless of the consequences, one should also voice their opinion.
· Do not slander someone. Base your criticism on things that are factual. If you do choose to incorporate fiction, be sure to use made-up characters and places.
· Try to respect all people and places being represented although the creators of South Park often cross this line.
· Cover the injustice of your theme with a good sense of knowledge. Do not just write on an issue without doing the proper research. If your idea is false then you lose all credibility with the audience.
· Keep it fun and be creative.
· Do invoke change.
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