The key way the show addresses teen issues is through supernatural metaphor, often embodied by a Monster of the Week. Therefore, the Fifth Business would have to prepare a Monster of the Week prior to play.
The first step would be to come up with an teenage issue, whether problem or aspect of teen life. Figure out what the risks or dangers are (whether real or perceived, I mean, we know that the library isn't actually dangerous, and yet, as teens, we do fear it, why, what is the perceived danger?), and then supernaturalize them. Make it something you can fight, or get rid of or whatever. Finally, find a twist, a complication to the original problem, while hopefully also delving further into the issue.
Example:
Aspect of adolescent life: Dating.
Risks: Date rape.
Supernaturalize it: A boy who seems and acts totally normal, literally transforms into a monster when alone with a girl and attacks her.
Twist: After attacking someone, the monster transfers over to another boy at the school. Which, to me, reflects the societal nature of date rape.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Interesting, although I am wondering about the "Fifth Business". The context tells me that perhaps it is something like a DM.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletePretty much, although what they try to accomplish while playing, their goal as it were, is somewhat different.
ReplyDeleteWhile usually a DM is seen as the person who creates the story, the Fifth Business is more the person who generates and plays the opposition to the leads desires. Similar, but more reactive than proactive.