I think sound is an often under looked part of media. When a movie comes out people will discuss its plot, visual effects, characters, and writing to death, but rarely do you hear people say, “Wow, that movie sounded amazing.” But what makes sound sound good?

Ira Glass, the host of This American Life, emphasizes that effective storytelling in sound hinges on two fundamental components: the anecdote and the reflection. The anecdote provides a sequence of events that keeps listeners engaged, while the reflection offers insight into why the story matters. Glass also highlights common pitfalls for beginners, such as imitating the polished voices heard on television or radio. He advises aspiring storytellers to embrace their authentic voice, as genuine delivery resonates more with audiences.Creating compelling audio content often involves a rigorous process of trial and error, and he encourages creators to be “ruthless” in editing, willing to discard parts that don’t serve the narrative.

The 1938 broadcast of “War of the Worlds” by Orson Welles serves as a testament to the immersive power of audio storytelling. The program’s realistic news bulletin format and convincing sound effects led many listeners to believe in an actual Martian invasion, demonstrating how sound can evoke strong emotional responses.

Audio storytelling is more than just narrating events. By understanding and applying the principles of audio design, storytellers can craft audio experiences that are both engaging and meaningful.