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Walter Fisher's Narrative Paradigm

Decent Essays

“Just do it.” “Taste the feeling.” “We will leave the light on for you.” What comes to mind when you hear these? If you said advertisements for Nike, Coca-Cola and Motel 6 respectively, you are correct. These slogans you may have seen or heard are a prelude to stories aimed to entice consumers.
Walter Fisher created the narrative paradigm in 1984. Our book lists several communication theories under the heading of group and public communication; narrative paradigm is one of them. Fisher contends it is human nature to communicate using storytelling. Relating events in this manner helps us make decisions. Stories passed down from generation to generation teach the history and importance of culture or tradition. Stories allow people to …show more content…

Narrative coherence meaning what was stated makes sense. In the end, it is understandable. Narrative fidelity refers to personal experiences. The story being told resembles one’s own experiences and you relate to it on a personal level.
This 30-second commercial for Axe Body Spray allows you to witness the narrative paradigm in action. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHCRWfV1q5A)
The hungry, homeless man is seeking food in a garbage can. His appearance suggests he lacked physical affection as well. He sees a hot chick coming his way, which really has her eyes on the “cool” biker. The homeless man spots Axe Body Spray in the trash can and thinking quickly, sprays a bit of it on himself. The woman ceases to eye the biker, instead, beelines it to the homeless man. This advertisement has progression and flow; therefore, it meets the narrative coherence criteria.
Axe Body Spray creators used sexual overtones in this commercial to draw attention to their product. Advertising with the aid of sex appeal has proven to be effective. However, there is a flip side of this type of advertising. It can be viewed as offensive, degrading and insulting.
Narrative fidelity can be observed in the Axe commercial because consumers can relate to the message; use of a fragrance can make you feel more attractive. The potential for this commercial to strike a chord with the viewer’s emotions following the “happily ever after” ending is

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