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The Power of Three: Why It Resonates in Storytelling and Communication

power of three

Introduction: The Magic of Threes

Why do things grouped in threes feel so… right?

From fairy tales to political speeches, the rhythm of three shows up everywhere. We say things once, twice, and then drive the point home the third time. Stories unfold in three acts. Jokes land on the third beat. And when we make a list, three items just feel complete — not too much, not too little.

Three is the smallest number needed to create a pattern. It builds tension, then resolves it. It gives our thoughts a beginning, a middle, and an end. There’s a reason so many truths come in triplets.

This isn’t just coincidence or habit — it’s how we’re wired to understand the world. In stories, in speeches, in everyday moments of communication, the Rule of Three quietly shapes how we listen, remember, and connect.

Let’s explore why.

I. The Rule of Three in Storytelling

“Once upon a time, there were three brothers…”

It’s a rhythm passed down through generations. We find it in myths and legends, bedtime stories and blockbuster films. The Rule of Three shapes the very structure of how we tell stories — and how we absorb them.

Think of the classic three-act structure:
Act One introduces the world.
Act Two introduces conflict.
Act Three brings resolution.
It mirrors the way we process experiences — start, struggle, solution.

In folklore, threes carry symbolism and suspense: the third little pig builds the strongest house, the third wish breaks the curse, the third trial earns the hero’s reward. The first two attempts set the stage, the third delivers the twist.

Modern storytelling isn’t any different. Consider the trio at the heart of Harry Potter — Harry, Ron, Hermione — each representing a different strength. Or Pixar’s finely-tuned narratives that follow a beginning, a challenge, and a transformation.

Three gives a story momentum. It builds a natural arc. It creates expectation and then satisfaction.

The storyteller knows: when in doubt, go with three.

Three-Part Persuasion: Communication That Sticks

“I came. I saw. I conquered.”

Julius Caesar didn’t write essays. He delivered impact — in three beats.

The Rule of Three isn’t just for stories. It lives in speeches, slogans, and sentences meant to be remembered. From ancient rhetoric to modern marketing, communicators have long understood: say something once and it’s a statement. Say it twice and it’s repetition. Say it three times — and it becomes truth.

Look around and you’ll find it everywhere:

  • * “Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
  • * “Reduce, reuse, recycle.”
  • * “Stop. Look. Listen.”

It’s not just style — it’s psychology. Our brains are wired to recognize and retain patterns. Three is the smallest number that feels like a complete unit. Two can feel abrupt. Four becomes noise. But three — three lands.

That’s why public speakers organize their points in threes. Why brand taglines often have a three-word rhythm. Why even comedy uses it — setup, setup, punchline.

In fact, this rhythm is so powerful, it’s influencing machines.
Even AI writing tools are learning to mimic the way we speak — the cadence, the structure, the emotional arc. To do that, they need to go beyond raw information and follow patterns we’ve long relied on. Patterns like the Rule of Three.

Tools like this one designed to make AI text sound more human are catching on — and learning from us. They know that when words fall into rhythm, they resonate.

So whether you’re writing a speech, crafting a message, or simply trying to make your words linger… remember: two is a list. Three is a story.

Three as a Symbol: Mind, Body, Soul

Beyond stories and speeches, the number three echoes through deeper places — through culture, through ritual, through the human need to find meaning in patterns.

We see it in ancient symbols and sacred texts:

  • * The Holy Trinity: Father, Son, Holy Spirit.
  • * The Trimurti of Hinduism: Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, Shiva the destroyer.
  • * The Three Jewels in Buddhism: Buddha, Dharma, Sangha.

These aren’t random groupings. They reflect a universal intuition — that truth often comes in threes. Creation, preservation, destruction. Birth, life, death. Past, present, future.

Even the triangle — the simplest geometric shape that can stand on its own — represents balance and stability. Architects and engineers trust it. So do philosophers and poets.

And then there’s us.
We are not just bodies walking through space. We are stories in motion — of mind, body, and soul. When all three align, we feel whole. When one is missing, we search for meaning.

The number three doesn’t just show up in stories because it’s convenient. It shows up because it’s everywhere — in the architecture of nature, in the structure of time, in the metaphors we live by.

There’s a reason a single point feels unfinished.
A pair feels like opposition.
But three?
Three is a harmony.

Why It Works: The Psychology Behind the Power of Three

There’s a reason things in threes feel right — and it’s not just tradition or good storytelling. It’s how our brains work.

Psychologists talk about something called “chunking.” It means we group information together to make it easier to remember. Three is the smallest number that forms a pattern, and our brains love patterns.

That’s why phone numbers are split into sections.
Why to-do lists often have three items.
Why stories follow three acts: beginning, middle, end.

We process groups of three faster. They feel complete and balanced — not overwhelming, but not too simple either.

Even jokes use this pattern. Think about it:

  • * First line sets the scene.
  • * Second builds the expectation.
    * Third delivers the punchline.

Too short, and it doesn’t stick. Too long, and we lose interest. But three hits the sweet spot.

This also explains why we remember speeches, slogans, and headlines better when they’re built around three parts. It’s not a trick — it’s how our brains are wired to understand and remember messages.

Even tools built with AI are learning to use this. If you want your writing to connect — whether it’s a speech, a blog post, or something generated by AI — using the Rule of Three can help it sound more natural and human.

It’s simple, clear, and it works.

Takeaways: Using the Rule of Three in Everyday Communication

You don’t have to be a novelist, public speaker, or ancient philosopher to use the Power of Three. It works just as well in an email, a caption, or a quick conversation.

Next time you’re writing something — anything — try organizing your thoughts into three parts. It could be:

  • * A list of benefits.
  • * A message with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
  • * A short pitch or call to action.

When you group ideas in threes, people are more likely to pay attention, remember what you said, and understand your message. It feels natural because it is natural — to our minds, our cultures, and even our instincts.

And now even machines are learning this. The rhythm of three is being built into how we teach technology to communicate more like us — clearly, persuasively, and with a human touch.

Three gives structure.
Three adds rhythm.
Three helps ideas stick.

It’s simple. It’s powerful. And it’s everywhere — once you start looking.

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The 9 Levels of Angels: Understanding the Celestial Hierarchy

Angels have fascinated humanity for millennia, appearing in religious texts, art, and cultural traditions across the world. In Christian theology, particularly following the influential 5th-century work “De Coelesti Hierarchia” (On the Celestial Hierarchy) attributed to Dionysius the Areopagite, angels are organized into a specific hierarchical structure. This structure, known as the angelic hierarchy or celestial hierarchy, consists of nine distinct orders or choirs of angels, each with unique roles and characteristics.

The Three Spheres

The angelic hierarchy is traditionally divided into three spheres, each containing three orders of angels. These spheres represent the angels’ proximity to God and their primary functions in the divine plan. The three spheres are Counselors, Governors, and Messengers.

First Sphere: The Counselors

The angels of the First Sphere are closest to God, continuously circling the throne of the Divine and serving as direct counselors.

1. Seraphim

Seraphim
Seraphim

The Seraphim (singular: Seraph) occupy the highest rank in the angelic hierarchy. Their name means “the burning ones” in Hebrew, representing their intense proximity to God. According to Isaiah 6:2, they have six wings: two covering their faces, two covering their feet, and two used for flying. They are often depicted as being red in color, symbolizing their burning love for God.

The Seraphim’s primary role is to ceaselessly worship God, chanting “Holy, Holy, Holy” around the throne of the Divine. They are considered the caretakers of God’s throne and regulators of the heavens.

2. Cherubim

Cherubim
Cherubim

The Cherubim (singular: Cherub) are the second-highest order of angels. Despite popular modern depictions as chubby, childlike figures, biblical Cherubim are majestic and powerful beings. In Ezekiel’s vision (Ezekiel 10), they are described as having four faces (of a man, an ox, a lion, and an eagle) and four wings covered with eyes.

The Cherubim serve as guardians and bearers of God’s glory. They guarded the way to the Tree of Life in Eden after Adam and Eve’s expulsion, and they were represented on the Ark of the Covenant. They are considered the keepers of celestial records and divine knowledge.

3. Thrones

Throne

The Thrones (also known as Ophanim or Wheels) are the third order in the First Sphere. As described in Ezekiel’s vision, they appear as interlocking wheels with multiple eyes. These strange, wheel-like angels are sometimes interpreted as representing the divine justice and authority of God.

The Thrones serve as God’s chariot and are the bearers of His throne. They are living symbols of God’s justice and authority, administering His decisions throughout the universe. They are completely submitted to God’s will and serve as the instruments of His divine justice.

Read more: The 9 Levels of Angels: Understanding the Celestial Hierarchy

Second Sphere: The Governors

The angels of the Second Sphere govern the celestial bodies and natural forces, serving as administrators of the divine plan.

4. Dominions

Dominions

The Dominions (also known as Lordships) are the first order of the Second Sphere. They are depicted as beautiful humanoid figures wearing crowns and holding orbs of light or scepters, symbolizing their authority.

The Dominions regulate the duties of the lower angels and rarely make themselves known to humans. They are responsible for ensuring that the cosmos remains in order by directing the activities of the lower angelic orders. They receive their commands from the Seraphim and Cherubim and delegate responsibilities to the lower choirs.

5. Virtues

Virtues

The Virtues (also called Strongholds) are the second order of the Second Sphere. They are often depicted as radiating light and energy, associated with acts of heroism and courage. Their name comes from the Latin “virtus,” meaning “strength” or “power.”

The Virtues are responsible for maintaining the natural order of the universe and supervising the movements of celestial bodies. They are seen as the angels who provide courage and strength during times of struggle, bringing God’s grace to those demonstrating faith. They are also considered the creators of miracles on Earth.

6. Powers

Powers

The Powers (also known as Authorities) are the third order of the Second Sphere. They are often depicted as warrior angels, wearing armor and bearing weapons. Their name reflects their power over evil forces.

The Powers are the bearers of conscience and keepers of history. They are warrior angels who defend the cosmos and humans against evil forces. They are also responsible for the distribution of power among humans on Earth, making sure that power is used for good and not evil.

Third Sphere: The Messengers

The angels of the Third Sphere are those most concerned with human affairs and direct interactions with humanity.

7. Principalities

Principalities
Principalities

The Principalities (also called Rulers) are the first order of the Third Sphere. They are typically depicted as figures wearing crowns and carrying scepters, symbolizing their authority over nations and large groups.

The Principalities are responsible for watching over nations, cities, and large groups of people. They guide and protect leaders of countries, groups, and institutions. They are considered the educators and guardians of the realm of Earth, inspiring arts and sciences.

8. Archangels

Archangels
Archangels

The Archangels are the second order of the Third Sphere and are perhaps the most well-known angels in popular culture. They are typically depicted as powerful, winged beings with swords or other symbols of authority.

Despite their position in the hierarchy, Archangels are among the most recognized angels, with names like Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, and Uriel being widely known. They are God’s emissaries to humans for the most significant messages and are often depicted as great warriors against evil. They oversee large projects and groups of guardian angels.

9. Angels

Angels
Angels

The Angels, the third order of the Third Sphere, are the most common and recognized class of celestial beings. They are usually depicted as winged humanoid beings, often shown guarding or guiding humans.

The Angels are the closest to humanity and serve as guardians and messengers to individuals. They are the most numerous and act as intermediaries between God and humans. Each person is believed to have a guardian angel assigned to them at birth.

Conclusion

The nine levels of angels represent a complex and fascinating spiritual hierarchy that has influenced religious thought, art, and literature for centuries. From the mighty Seraphim constantly praising God to the guardian Angels watching over individual humans, this celestial structure provides a framework for understanding how divine will might be organized and expressed throughout creation.

Whether viewed as literal spiritual beings or as metaphorical representations of divine aspects, the angelic hierarchy continues to capture our imagination and reflects humanity’s enduring fascination with the bridge between the divine and earthly realms.

Understanding these nine levels helps us appreciate the rich tapestry of beliefs that have shaped religious tradition and continues to inspire spiritual contemplation today.

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From Protagonists to Antagonists: Exploring Character Dynamics with Character Maps

StoryboardThat

Character development is a crucial aspect of storytelling. Writers strive to create memorable and relatable characters who drive the narrative forward. These characters are not static; they undergo transformations, and their relationships with other characters can evolve throughout the story. One powerful tool for understanding and crafting these character dynamics is the character map. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of character maps and how they can help writers explore the shifting roles of protagonists and antagonists in their stories.

The Importance of Character Dynamics

Before we dive into character maps created at StoryboardThat, it’s essential to understand why character dynamics matter in storytelling. Dynamic characters are those who experience growth, change, or evolution throughout the narrative. They capture readers’ attention and elicit emotional responses because they feel like real people dealing with real challenges.

Character dynamics, especially the relationships between protagonists and antagonists, can make or break a story. These dynamics provide the conflict and tension that propel the plot forward. Think of classic literary pairs like Sherlock Holmes and Moriarty, Harry Potter and Voldemort, or Katniss Everdeen and President Snow. These antagonists play a pivotal role in shaping the development of the protagonists, and vice versa.

What Are Character Maps?

Character maps are visual tools that writers use to chart the relationships, interactions, and developments of their characters throughout a story. They can take various forms, from simple diagrams to complex charts, and can be as detailed as the writer needs them to be. Character maps help writers keep track of how their characters evolve and how they connect with one another.

Here are some key elements that character maps can include:

  • Character Traits: Writers can list the personality traits, strengths, weaknesses, and quirks of each character. Understanding these traits helps writers create consistent and believable character arcs.
  • Character Relationships: Character maps can depict the relationships between characters, highlighting connections such as friendship, rivalry, or mentorship. This visual representation makes it easier to see how characters impact one another.
  • Character Arcs: Writers can outline the journey each character undertakes, noting their initial state, challenges faced, and eventual growth or transformation. This helps ensure that character development is cohesive and engaging.
  • Character Goals and Motivations: Understanding what drives each character is essential. Character maps can outline their goals and motivations, making it easier to track how these change over the course of the story.
  • Character Interactions: Writers can chart specific scenes or moments where characters interact, showcasing pivotal moments in their relationships.

Evolving Protagonists and Antagonists

One of the most fascinating aspects of character dynamics is how protagonists and antagonists can evolve and, at times, switch roles over the course of a story. Character maps allow writers to visualize these transformations and explore the nuances of their characters’ journeys.

Protagonists Becoming Antagonists

In some stories, the protagonist may start with noble intentions but gradually succumb to darker impulses or circumstances, turning them into an antagonist. Conflicts within the organization or external factors may be the driving force behind this shift. Character maps can help writers track this transformation and ensure it feels organic and compelling.

Take, for example, the character of Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars. Initially introduced as a hero with great potential, he ultimately becomes Darth Vader, one of the most iconic antagonists in cinematic history. Character maps would show the gradual change in Anakin’s traits, relationships, and motivations as he transitions from protagonist to antagonist.

Antagonists Finding Redemption

Conversely, antagonists can experience redemption arcs that lead them to become allies or even protagonists. These arcs can be some of the most emotionally satisfying aspects of a story. Character maps help writers plan and execute these redemptions effectively.

A classic example of an antagonist finding redemption is Severus Snape in the Harry Potter series. Initially portrayed as a villainous character, Snape’s complex backstory and motivations are gradually revealed, leading to his ultimate redemption. Character maps would highlight key moments where Snape’s relationship with Harry Potter evolves and the factors that drive his transformation from antagonist to a more sympathetic character.

Case Study: Macbeth

To illustrate the use of character maps in exploring character dynamics, let’s examine William Shakespeare’s tragic play, “Macbeth.” The character map for “Macbeth” would include the following elements:

  • Characteristics: Macbeth starts out as a brave and devoted warrior but succumbs to ambition and paranoia. Lady Macbeth is initially ruthless and manipulative, but later descends into guilt and madness.
  • Character Relationships: Macbeth’s relationship with his wife, Lady Macbeth, is central to the story, as her ambitions drive him to commit murder. The character map would depict how their relationship evolves from a partnership in ambition to a source of mutual torment.
  • Character Arcs: Macbeth’s character arc involves his descent from hero to tyrant. Lady Macbeth’s arc traces her decline from a confident instigator to a guilt-ridden and suicidal figure.
  • Character Goals and Motivations: Macbeth’s goal shifts from being a loyal subject to becoming king at any cost. Lady Macbeth’s motivation is her desire for power and status.
  • Character Interactions: The character map would highlight key moments such as Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s plotting, their interactions with the three witches, and Macbeth’s confrontations with other characters like Macduff.

By creating a character map for “Macbeth,” writers can gain a deeper understanding of how the characters’ dynamics drive the tragedy of the play. It becomes clear that Macbeth and Lady Macbeth’s initial ambition and unity ultimately lead to their downfall, highlighting the intricate relationship between protagonists and antagonists in Shakespeare’s masterpiece.

Tips for Creating Effective Character Maps

Now that we’ve explored the importance of character dynamics and the use of character maps, here are some tips for creating effective character maps for your own writing:

  • Start Simple: Begin with basic character traits and relationships. As your story develops, you can add more details to your character map.
  • Use Visuals: Visual elements like diagrams, flowcharts, or even digital tools can make character maps more engaging and easier to reference.
  • Update as You Write: Character dynamics can evolve as you write, so don’t hesitate to update your character map as your story progresses.
  • Seek Feedback: Share your character map with beta readers or critique partners to ensure that the character dynamics are clear and compelling.
  • Stay Consistent: Use your character map as a reference to maintain consistency in character traits and relationships throughout your story.

Conclusion

Character dynamics are at the heart of compelling storytelling, and character maps are valuable tools for exploring and crafting these dynamics. From protagonists turning into antagonists to villains finding redemption, character maps help writers visualize the intricate relationships and transformations that drive their narratives.

As you embark on your next writing journey, consider using character maps to dive deeper into your characters’ arcs and relationships. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to create rich, dynamic characters that resonate with readers and elevate your storytelling to new heights.