Understanding and Communicating Through Narratives

The military is increasingly using and relying on the term "narrative" in its lexicon. United States strategic guidance documents generally implore commanders to "shape the narrative" doctrinal publications recommend commanders to "exploit a single narrative" and operational plans direct commanders to execute an "operational narrative." Although the concept of narrative is generally understood as telling a story, it is more important for practitioners to recognize narrative as a methodology for understanding and as a mode of communication. Integrating a narrative approach to military operations would be beneficial because it offers the potential to convey the meaning of our actions in a context that is relevant to a rival's understanding. A survey of current U.S. doctrine provides multiple and ambiguous definitions and functions of narrative. A shared understanding of narrative is required to prevent misunderstanding as future military commanders contemplate executing operations within a narrative framework. Specifically, this monograph will provide an analysis of the current military narrative development, narrative theory, and explore the current paradigm of U.S. communication efforts. Lastly, based on shared understanding this monograph provides with regard to the utility of narrative in planning and communications, it makes recommendations on potential application narrative theory to military operations. This monograph argues that the absence of understanding about what narrative is and what it can do limits the military's ability to utilize the tool effectively. Applying narrative theory to military planning and communicating activities will make messages and actions consonant with, and part of, military operations.