The Power of Subtext in Storytelling
This week in my scriptwriting course, we’ve been diving into one of the most powerful yet often overlooked elements of any great book or film—subtext.
It’s been fascinating to break down how a simple scene, when layered with meaning, can completely shift the weight of a story.
One example that really stood out to me was The Godfather—specifically, the moment when Michael Corleone stands outside the hospital after his father has been shot.
💡 On the surface? He’s just standing guard.
💡 Beneath the surface? Everything has changed.
A car slowly drives past, scouting for an easy hit—but seeing Michael standing his ground with a visitor, they assume the hospital is heavily guarded and decide to back off.
At that moment, his friend hands him a cigarette, but there’s a subtle detail: his friend’s hand is shaking uncontrollably, while Michael’s remains perfectly still.
This isn’t just a throwaway moment—it’s a visual passing of the torch.
In an earlier scene, Michael tells his wife, “I’m not like my father.” But this moment proves otherwise. Without a single word, we see him stepping into his father’s world.
I’ll be honest—I completely missed this subtext the first time I watched the film. But now? It hits hard.
How This Relates to Take It Back
This got me thinking about my own book, Take It Back.
At its core, the story is about Billy’s war against criminals, but the real battle is inside him.
💭 Is he doing these raids to protect the people he loves?
💭 Or is he just feeding his own thirst for danger?
The subtext in Take It Back isn’t just about the violence or action—it’s about a man at war with himself, trying to justify his choices while walking a line he may not come back from.
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts when the book is out!
Have a great week,
Garry