Stages 9 & 10 of the Journey

Vogler, Christopher. Vogler, Christopher. “Book Two: Stages of the Journey.” The Writer's Journey. Third. Studio City, CA: Michael Wiese Productions, 1998. 175 – 194.

Summary:
Reward –

At this point, the Hero has gotten past the hardest part of his/her journey, the Ordeal, and now it is time for him/her to reap the reward for his/her labor; i.e., collect what he/she came for (seizing the sword). The only problem is that sometimes the Hero goes through all that trouble just to not be given his reward; he/she has to steal it (which is more trouble for the Hero to go through). This is also the opportune time for the Hero to recap what has happened up until this point, celebrate, and make love.

Considering that the Hero has gone through the greatest of ordeals, it is almost certain that he/she has changed or is seen in a different light by others. That change in perception by himself and by others allows him/her to look at the world differently (new perceptions, seeing through deception, clairvoyance, self realization, epiphany) or others to initiate him/her, respectively.


The Road Back –

In this stage, the Hero, usually, returns to the Ordinary World; In order to do that, the Hero has to put into use all of the lessons that he/she has learned throughout his/her journey. Sometimes it is hard for the Hero to return, because that means starting another adventure; however, some sort of external force, inner resolve, or reminder of the Hero’s ultimate goal appears and reminds the Hero that he/she cannot stay in the Special World.

• Enemies:
o At this stage, the Hero still has to worry about his/her enemies. Just because he/she thought he killed them, does not mean he/she actually did. This is a popular time in the story for chase scenes (chase the Hero, the Villain, or by an admirer), magic flights, and setbacks (could be the Delayed Crisis).

The Road Back is the stage that shows the Hero’s determination to finish the journey, in spite of the allure of the Special World and any tests that are lurking ahead for the Hero.


Reaction:

Personally, I feel as though The Road Back is a very important stage in the journey, because it brings reality to the Hero’s situation. If the story ended with the Hero getting his Reward without any repercussions, then the story would be too perfect. It is nice to see that despite all the trials that the Hero has faced, he/she is still determined to complete his/her journey.


Questions:

• We see that, during the Reward stage, the Hero’s perspective of the world has changed due to his/her trials and triumphs. Is it still possible for him/her to return to the Ordinary World and be content?

• Is it possible for the Hero to stay in the Special World forever?
o What is the importance of the Hero returning to the Ordinary World?

• Is the Villain’s escape just an excuse to create a sequel?

• How does death change the Hero?

• Are all Heroes fearless after going through their journey?