Storytelling is an essential element of human nature. This study identifies five universal "streams of narrative" - that is, five "hyper-genres" that serve as a system for classifying virtually all kinds of narration. In conjunction with concepts drawn from biology, psychology, and sociology, the study develops a solid anthropological foundation for these five streams of narrative. The author uses examples from diverse cultures, eras, and media to demonstrate the occurrence of overlapping and blending between the streams.