The Storytelling Trope You Can’t Escape: Solving the ‘Love Triangle’ Crossword Clue

Sure, I’d be happy to explain the crossword clue ‘Familiar cliché in storytelling’ and the answer ‘TROPE’.

A trope is a common or recurring theme, motif, or plot device used in storytelling. Tropes can either be stereotypical and overused, or they can be creative and innovative depending on how they’re used. Regardless of these variations, what distinguishes a trope from other narrative elements is that it is instantly recognizable to the audience as a familiar cliché or familiar shorthand used in certain genres or styles of storytelling.

As an example, the love triangle is a classic trope that we see in all types of storytelling, ranging from literature to television and film. In essence, a love triangle is a situation where two individuals are in love with the same person. This trope is often used to add drama and complexity to a story, as characters struggle with their feelings and interpersonal relationships.

Another example of a well-known trope is the ‘girl next door’. This refers to a female character who is seen as attractive, wholesome, and relatable, and she is often the main love interest for the male protagonist. This trope represents an idealized romantic partner, but it can also create cliched or overly predictable plotlines.

Overall, tropes serve as a type of storytelling shorthand for creators, pointing to a shared cultural reference point that audiences will understand. Although the use of tropes can be a double-edged sword, tapping into common narrative elements can certainly make a story more relatable and engaging.