Read Time:9 Minute, 3 Second

By William Van Zyl

Published on June 23, 2024

I listened to Brad Read’s podcast, Subtext or The Third Thing, yesterday. Well, I must say, “A stunning Podcast!” The content is simply brilliant. His examples of The Third Thing are so good. The extravagant sound files, which he includes as examples, explain the technique perfectly. He loves the TV series FRAZIER and uses it to make his point—so accurately!

You may ask, what is “subtext” or “The third thing” in writing? I am glad you have asked. This knowledge will elevate your thinking and subsequently develop your writing to the next level–anyone’s writing, not only experienced writer’s techniques. So, please continue reading.

It refers to a technique used to introduce subtext, which is the underlying meaning or message in a piece of writing that isn’t explicitly stated. It involves using an additional, seemingly unrelated element to reveal deeper truths about the characters, themes, or situations.

I also include a link to the podcast at the end, which means this article will provide so much depth that it will surely develop your writing in general. By the way, I have done some research for you. I include some extravagant examples from the Holy Writ to add layers to the article. You will love it,

I start with a simple example:

Table of Contents

Example

Imagine a scene where two characters, Alexa and Jamie (a young girl and young man), are tense about their relationship. The dialogue is polite but strained. The third element could be a ticking watch. A clock on the church tower, Maybe a sundial in a park. The clock isn’t part of their conversation, but its presence and the sound of ticking can symbolise the passing of time, impending decisions, or the characters’ awareness of their limited time together. The reader picks up on this subtext, adding depth to the scene beyond the spoken words.

Jamie: Is this the end of our relationship?

Alexa: Well, it feels like time is running out.

Jamie looks up the church tower and he then down to his watch. He pulls this watch’s adjusting knob out and moves the minute hand 5 minutes back.

The watch clicks, as he pops the small knob back in.

Alexa: I also wish I could turn back time.

Jamie: Yes, me too. I would have done things so differently.

Alexa: Do we have any more time to make this relationship work?

Jamie: Let’s walk over to the sundial.

They got up from the bench in the park and walked together to the tarnished copper sundial installed in concrete.

Jamie: See the shadow? It is falling on the 4 pm mark, can you see it?

Alexa: Yes, I see it. The day is almost done. What about our relationship? Is there any more time left?

Jamie: I’m not sure. Tomorrow, the Sun will shine bright in this park. Let’s go home and meet again at 10 am. It will be a new day, a new dawn. We have lots to think about.

Alexa: Yes, you are right. We both have to polish our tarnished attitudes tonight.…..

Benefits

Depth and Complexity: The 3rd thing adds layers of meaning to the narrative, making it richer and more nuanced.
Engagement: It encourages readers to think actively and deeply engage with the text.
Show, Don’t Tell: This technique is a classic example of showing rather than telling. It allows writers to convey complex emotions and themes subtly and effectively.

Using the 3rd thing in writing can be a powerful way to enhance storytelling, providing readers with a more immersive and multi-dimensional experience.

Let’s get to more detail now. Here’s how the cogs, the machinery behind the words, work:

Establish the Context: Start by setting up two primary elements—these could be characters, objects, situations, or themes. These elements are what the reader expects to be the main focus of the narrative.
Introduce the 3rd Thing: Bring in a third element that appears tangential or unrelated to the main context. This could be an object, a minor character, an event, or even a piece of dialogue.
Create Connections: This third element reveals deeper insights about the primary elements. The third thing often acts as a catalyst or a mirror, reflecting hidden emotions, underlying tensions, or unspoken truths. It enriches the narrative by adding layers of meaning without directly stating them.
Allow for Interpretation: The 3rd thing encourages readers to make their own connections and interpretations. It invites them to read between the lines and uncover the subtext, making the reading experience more engaging and thought-provoking.

For an additional layer, let’s examine an example from the Holy Scriptures: the Psalms of David.

The Psalms of David often use metaphor and imagery to convey deeper spiritual truths and emotional states, making them rich with examples of subtext. Here’s an example using the “3rd thing” technique from Psalm 23.

Remember David was the young shepherd in the field? When he wrote Psalm 23, he made God the Shepherd, and he became the sheep—a very clever and powerful writing technique!

Psalm 23:1-4 (KJV)

Context: The primary elements are the Lord (as the Shepherd) and David (as the sheep). David exchanges positions—from shepherd to sheep. Jehovah becomes the shepherd in this context.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Third Thing: The “valley of the shadow of death.“

Analysis

Context: The primary elements are the shepherd (the Lord) and the sheep (David), describing a relationship of guidance, provision, and protection.

Third Thing: The “valley of the shadow of death,” which appears to be a dark and dangerous place.

Subtext: The valley represents life’s trials, fears, and darkest moments. The presence of the valley introduces a profound subtext:

Dependence on God: Despite the ominous “valley of the shadow of death,” David expresses no fear because he trusts in the Lord’s protection. This trust reflects the depth of David’s faith and reliance on God.
Comfort in Adversity: The “rod and staff” symbolise tools of guidance and protection, reinforcing the idea that even in the most threatening circumstances, God’s presence brings comfort and security.
Life’s Challenges: The valley is a metaphor for life’s inevitable hardships. The mention of it acknowledges that life includes difficult and frightening times, but these are part of the journey under God’s care.

The “valley of the shadow of death” (the third thing) enriches the psalm by adding a layer of meaning about enduring and overcoming life’s difficulties with faith. It conveys that true peace and fearlessness come from the shepherd’s presence, not the absence of danger. This subtextual message about faith, comfort, and divine protection is conveyed through the imagery of the valley, making the psalm more profound and resonant.

This technique is a powerful way to express yourself and instantly add significant depth to your writing. Remember this technique; practice it! How will you use subtext (The Third Thing) in your writing?

Here is an additional example: In the Psalms, King David is troubled by his enemies—in this instance, his son Absalom becomes his enemy. His son Absalom wants to destroy him and take the Kingship from him.

Here’s an example from Psalm 3, where David speaks of his enemies. The “third thing” technique introduces subtext about his trust in God amidst adversity.

Psalm 3:1-6 (KJV)

Context: David is fleeing from his son Absalom, who has turned against him. The primary elements are David and his enemies.

Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! Many are they that rise up against me.
Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.
But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.
I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah.
I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me.
I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.

Third Thing: David is lying down and sleeping amidst his son, who is planning to kill him. God is his protection – his ‘shield.’ David is also distraught; however, God is the lifter of his head in the dire situation he finds himself in. His own flesh and blood has turned against him.

Analysis

Context: The primary elements are David and his numerous enemies, who threaten him and question his reliance on God.

Third Thing: David is lying down – sleeping.

Subtext: The act of sleeping introduces deeper insights into David’s state of mind and his trust in God:

Trust in God: Despite being surrounded by enemies and in a state of imminent danger, David’s ability to lie down and sleep shows profound trust in God’s protection. This act of sleeping signifies peace and confidence in God’s care, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Divine Sustenance: By stating, “I awaked; for the Lord sustained me,” David underscores that his survival and rest are due to God’s intervention. The simple act of waking up safely after sleeping becomes a testament to God’s unwavering support.
Fearlessness: David’s declaration that he will not be afraid of “ten thousands of people” is strengthened by the subtext provided by his peaceful sleep. It highlights his inner calm and fearlessness, rooted in faith.

The “third thing” (David lying down and sleeping) subtly conveys the subtext of trust and divine protection. It illustrates that despite the presence of many enemies, David’s faith in God allows him to find rest and maintain courage, offering a deeper understanding of his spiritual resilience.

As mentioned, here are the podcast details by Bread Read (Spotify).