Books to help you write stories like Kafka and David Lynch

Kafka said: 

"A book must be an ice axe to break the sea frozen inside us.
What we need are books that hit us like a most painful misfortune, like the death of someone we loved more than we love ourselves, that make us feel as though we had been banished to the woods, far from any human presence, like a suicide. A book must be the ax for the frozen sea within us."

Both Kafka and Lynch love the woods. There is something about Twin Peaks, Mulholland Drive, and The Castle, after all, that seem to go together. 

For the sake of the avid reader, I've compiled a list of books that can bring you to a deeper understanding of what makes narratology great.

While there's no single definitive book that can guarantee the key to creating a good narrative in a cinematic or literary sense, there are several books that are highly regarded among writers, filmmakers, and storytellers. These books offer valuable insights into narrative structure, storytelling techniques, and the art of crafting compelling narratives. Studying these works can certainly help you in your journey to create captivating stories akin to the styles of Lynch or Kafka. Here are some recommended books:

"Story" by Robert McKee: This book is often considered a classic for screenwriters, but its principles can be applied to any form of storytelling. McKee delves into the essential elements of a strong narrative, focusing on character development, plot, and the underlying principles that make stories engaging.

"The Hero with a Thousand Faces" by Joseph Campbell: Campbell explores the concept of the hero's journey and its recurrence in mythology and storytelling across cultures. It offers a profound understanding of archetypes and the underlying structure of many great narratives.

"On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft" by Stephen King: Part memoir, part writing advice, this book by the master of horror provides valuable insights into the writing process and storytelling. It's a candid and engaging read for aspiring writers.

"Save the Cat!" by Blake Snyder: Originally geared towards screenwriters, this book outlines a formulaic approach to creating effective stories. While some may argue against strictly adhering to formulas, Snyder's book offers helpful insights into creating compelling characters and story arcs.

"The Art of Fiction" by John Gardner: A classic among literary writers, this book delves into the elements of good fiction writing, including point of view, voice, and the importance of showing rather than telling.

"Making a Good Script Great" by Linda Seger: Targeted towards screenwriters, this book explores how to elevate a screenplay from good to great, emphasizing character development, theme, and emotional impact.

"The Writer's Journey" by Christopher Vogler: Inspired by Joseph Campbell's work, Vogler applies the hero's journey to screenwriting, offering a detailed breakdown of character archetypes and plot structures.

Remember, while studying these books can be incredibly beneficial, developing your unique voice and artistic sense is essential to creating something as groundbreaking and innovative as the works of David Lynch or Franz Kafka. Read widely, analyze various styles and approaches, and practice your craft regularly to unlock your storytelling potential.