The creative technique Cascades begins with a Specific Idea and then identifies a range of linked General ideas from which a creative text can be structured and developed.
How does 'Cascades' work?
We begin by identifying a word closely linked to the Specific Idea being developed in a section of narrative.
We then identify a "cascade" of words that have an association to this first word - in order to produce a range of "associations" (i.e. general ideas) from which a creative passage can be structured and developed.
The Cascade: Analysis of Connections
Here are 9 words derived from the starting word of "Alteration". The following cards demonstrate the logical leap (Association) and the creative outcome (Result in Text).
1. River
Association: Alteration implies fluidity and movement; nothing stays static.
Result in Narrative: "Consecutive alteration is like a river that flows finally into design."
2. Design
Association: Alteration is usually an intentional act to improve a plan or structure.
Result in Narrative: "...flows finally into design."
3. Garment
Association: In a specific context, clothes are the most common object subjected to alteration.
Result in Narrative: "Every alteration is an act in the fashioning of a garment..."
4. Steps
Association: You cannot alter everything at once; it requires a sequence of small actions.
Result in Narrative: "...broken down into smaller steps."
5. Tailored
Association: The specific aesthetic goal of altering a piece of clothing.
Result in Narrative: "Small steps should be taken towards a tailored look..."
6. Fit
Association: The functional goal of altering clothing; making it match the wearer.
Result in Narrative: "It will become a far better fit for the role it is playing..."
7. Refining
Association: Alteration is rarely destructive; it is usually about polishing or honing.
Result in Narrative: "...through the refining design of each consecutive alteration."
8. Progressive
Association: Alteration looks forward; it builds upon what came before (unlike a 'leap').
Result in Narrative: "A progressive measure has always delivered a more creative..."
9. Practical
Association: Alterations are usually done for a reason (utility) rather than just aesthetics.
Result in Narrative: "...more creative and practical solution than the leap of blind faith..."
Narrative Development Summary
By using this Cascade, Anjali's internal monologue develops from a simple definition to a philosophical stance on the industry.
- The Metaphor: The cascade began with River...establishing a simile immediately.
- The Application: It moved to Garment and Tailored...grounding the metaphor in the character's profession (fashion).
- The Philosophy: It ended with Progressive and Practical...allowing the character to contrast "alteration" (her preferred method) against "blind faith".
Illustration: Narrative Outcome
The "Cascade" of words developed into the following narrative from The Tailor:
This statement of Panya's returned to Anjali's thoughts, as she stared at the ceiling of her bedroom that night. The clarity of flowing thought to be found in the early-morning hours caused her to reason in this way.
'Consecutive alteration is like a river that flows finally into design. Every alteration is an act in the fashioning of a garment but broken down into smaller steps. Alteration would be a worthy ambition for a fashion designer. Small steps should be taken towards a tailored look and feel to a garment. Clothing should be fashioned by alteration. It will become a far better fit for the role it is playing, through the refining design of each consecutive alteration.'
She wrote in her bedside notebook by the light of a pocket torch.
'It is the business of the fashion designer to extend the capability and reach of a garment, making it supportive of the widest needs of its wearer. A progressive measure has always delivered a more creative and practical solution than the leap of blind faith that is the new fashion collection. It is surely better to provide what people need by reason of the challenges they face in their all-too-real lives, rather than try to convince them of what they should wear - in order to satisfy off-the-shelf presumed requirements - for one transitory season.'