Writing Craft: Sequencing a Complex Plot by Olivia Salter

 

Writing Craft: Sequencing a Complex Plot

 

by Olivia Salter 

Most writers are familiar with the challenges of crafting an engaging and captivating plot for their stories. However, when it comes to sequencing a complex plot, many writers find themselves in uncharted territory. Plot sequencing refers to the art of presenting events, actions, and storylines in a way that creates suspense, builds tension, and keeps readers hooked throughout the narrative. Mastering this skill is essential for writers to deliver a well-structured and satisfying story.

So why do many writers struggle with sequencing complex plots? One reason is that they may have a multitude of ideas and storylines in their minds, making it difficult to organize them in a coherent manner. Another reason is the fear of overwhelming the reader or losing their interest by introducing numerous subplots or intricate twists. Despite these challenges, there are some effective techniques that can help writers successfully sequence their complex plots.

The first step in sequencing a complex plot is to establish a strong foundation. This involves outlining the main plot points and creating a clear vision of how the story will unfold. Writers should identify the major events, turning points, and conflicts that will drive the narrative forward. By having a well-defined structure, writers can ensure that each element of their plot serves a purpose and contributes to the overall story arc.

Once the foundation is established, writers can begin to weave in subplots and additional storylines. These subplots should complement the main plot, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative. However, it's crucial to strike a balance and not overwhelm the reader with too many subplots. Each subplot should have its own arc, conflict, and resolution while also connecting to the central narrative in a meaningful way.

To effectively sequence a complex plot, writers can employ various techniques, such as foreshadowing, pacing, and parallel storytelling. Foreshadowing allows writers to hint at future events or conflicts, creating anticipation and keeping readers engaged. Pacing involves controlling the speed at which events unfold, balancing slower moments with high-tension sequences to maintain the reader's interest. Parallel storytelling involves interweaving different storylines or perspectives, allowing readers to experience multiple aspects of the narrative simultaneously.

Another essential aspect of sequencing a complex plot is embracing the concept of cause and effect. Every action and event in the story should have consequences that influence subsequent events. This creates a chain reaction where each event builds upon the previous one, leading to an eventual climax and resolution. By establishing clear cause-and-effect relationships, writers can create a cohesive and logical progression of events.

However, it's important to note that sequencing a complex plot is not just about creating twists and turns. While surprises and unexpected developments can add excitement to the story, writers should also ensure that there is a sense of coherence and logical progression. It's crucial to maintain a balance between keeping readers engaged and not confusing them with excessive complexity.

In conclusion, sequencing a complex plot is a challenging task for many writers, but it is not an insurmountable one. By establishing a strong foundation, integrating subplots effectively, employing various storytelling techniques, embracing cause and effect, and maintaining coherence, writers can successfully sequence their complex plots. With practice and a deep understanding of their story's core elements, writers can effectively engage readers, create suspense, and deliver a satisfying narrative.

 

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Writing Quote: We need books that affect us like a disaster, that grieve us deeply, like the death of someone we loved more than ourselves, like being banished into forests far from everyone, like a suicide. A book must be the axe for the frozen sea within us. --Franz Kafka

 

The Transformative Power of Literature and the Potential of Books to Ignite Profound Emotional Responses

 

by Olivia Salter

 

Franz Kafka, the renowned novelist and short-story writer, was a master of capturing the complexities of the human experience and the deep-seated emotions that lie within us. One of his profound statements that resonates with many readers and literary enthusiasts is, "We need books that affect us like a disaster, that grieve us deeply, like the death of someone we loved more than ourselves, like being banished into forests far from everyone, like a suicide. A book must be the axe for the frozen sea within us."

This powerful quote reflects Kafka's belief in the transformative power of literature and the potential of books to ignite profound emotional responses within us. He suggests that great books should have the ability to shake us to our core and evoke intense feelings of grief, sadness, and isolation. Just as a disaster or the loss of a loved one can deeply affect us, Kafka argues that books should have a similar impact on our emotional and psychological well-being.

By likening the effect of books to the experience of exile or suicide, Kafka emphasizes the importance of literature in breaking through the icy barriers that we often build around our innermost selves. He sees books not just as sources of entertainment or information, but as tools that can help us confront our deepest fears, doubts, and insecurities. In essence, a powerful book should serve as an "axe" that breaks open the frozen sea within us, allowing our emotions and thoughts to flow freely.

Kafka's vision of literature as a force that can shatter emotional barriers and awaken dormant feelings speaks to the profound impact that books can have on our lives. Through his words, he invites readers to seek out works of literature that challenge them, that make them feel deeply, and that ultimately help them confront and navigate the complexities of the human experience.

In today's fast-paced and digitally driven world, where distractions abound and attention spans are often fragmented, Kafka's call for emotionally impactful books serves as a compelling reminder of the enduring power of literature to move and transform us. As readers, we are encouraged to seek out books that push us out of our comfort zones, books that awaken our emotions and stir our souls, and books that serve as axes to break through the frozen seas within us

Also see:

👉Free Writing Resources
👉Fiction Writing books at Amazon

 

The Art of Subtext: Beyond Plot

 

By Olivia Salter

Let’s delve into the fascinating world of subtext—the hidden currents beneath the surface of a story that captivate readers and haunt their imagination.

In this brief exploration, we’ll examine those elusive elements that propel readers beyond the mere plot of a novel or short story. We’ll venture into the realm of what lies beneath the surface: the implied, the half-visible, and the unspoken. This subterranean territory, rich with overcharged psychological materials, is often designated as the subtext of a story.

To discuss subtexts initially seems like a paradoxical mission. It’s akin to saying, “I am about to show you how to reveal the unseen” or “I wish to demonstrate how to think about the unthinkable.” Yet, between the visible staging and the enigmatic subtext, a mysterious relationship exists. Writers often employ a plethora of seemingly gratuitous details to hint at an indistinct presence lurking beneath the narrative surface. The stronger the unspoken and unseen, the more these details proliferate—a world both solid and haunted.

The Slippery Surface and the Subtextual Dimension

In fiction, the half-visible and the unspoken—the subtextual matters—are evoked when the action and dialogue angle downward. By their multiplicity, they imply as much as they reveal. Imagine a slippery surface causing you to skid into this subtextual dimension. Here, the reader slips beyond the plot and enters another realm altogether.

Let’s explore some key aspects of subtext:

1. The Art of Staging: Characters reveal themselves through dramatic placement. Their positioning on the stage—both physically and emotionally—speaks volumes about their inner lives.

2. Digging the Subterranean: What is subtext made of? How do writers bring it to the surface? We’ll delve into the layers beneath the narrative skin.

3. Unheard Melodies: Paying attention to what people no longer pay attention to—those subtle cues, gestures, and silences—leads us deeper into the subtext.

4. Inflection and the Breath of Life: Tonal shifts take us from the literal to the metaphorical. Inflections in dialogue carry hidden meanings, like whispers in the wind.

5. Creating a Scene: Characters lose their surface-level self-possession when faced with emotional turmoil. These moments reveal the subtextual undercurrents.

6. Loss of Face: The face—the mask we wear—often betrays our true feelings. When it slips or fails, we glimpse the subsurface emotions.

Practical Insights for Writers

For aspiring writers seeking practical advice, consider these examples from familiar fiction. They illustrate how subtext operates, inspires, and enriches storytelling. Remember, the unseen soul-matter lies just beneath the words, waiting to be discovered by curious readers.

So, let’s embrace the subtext—the unspoken truths, the half-visible shadows—and invite our readers to explore the haunted landscapes of imagination.

Mommy, Where Do Babies "Ideas" Come From? by Randy Ingermanson

Mommy, Where Do Babies "Ideas" Come From?

by Randy Ingermanson

Advanced Fiction Writing 

 

I used to think I wasn't very creative.  I used to even say it out loud. I have since learned that saying things like that qualifies as a Crime Against Humanity. There's probaby a Geneva Convention against it.

The reason is that this is the quintessential self-fulfilling prophecy.  Do you want to be uncreative, dull, and boring?  Then tell everyone you're uncreative, dull, and boring.  (Or tell everyone you're creative, entertaining, and fascinating.  You get the same great reaction either way.)

Frankly, if you have a pulse, you've got some level of creativity.  And if you're a novelist (or imagine you're a novelist) then you probably have a lot of creativity.

Bottom line:  Stop worrying about whether you ARE creative.  Start focusing on how to beef up what you've got.

I recently gave a talk on "Exercising Your Creativity" at a writer's conference. I based the talk on one of my favorite books on the subject, A Whack On The Side Of The Head, by Roger von Oech.  Here are three of the things I learned about being creative from this book:

A)  Sometimes there is more than one right answer.

I tried to convince my calculus teacher of this once, and didn't get very far. But real life doesn't have much to do with calculus.  In real life, there may very well be six or two hundred or a zillion right answers.

Example:  What is the "right" way to write this article?

There are plenty of right ways, and my way isn't necessarily the rightest.  It's just my way. So when you come up with a clever idea to solve a problem, don't stop! Ask yourself if you can come up with ten clever ways.  Or ten stupid ways.  But oops!  I'm infringing on the second principle I learned . . .

B)  Sometimes being "stupid" is smart.

People are so afraid of doing something stupid, they'll go along with the crowd. Even if that means getting caught up in Groupthink and doing something . . . stupid.

Guess what?  The crowd isn't always right, and sometimes what seems smart to everyone isn't smart at all.  There are any number of garage inventors who've built things that the experts said couldn't be done.  Am I right or am I right?

Kings used to have "court fools" whose job was to mock the group, including the king.  The purpose was to always have at least one voice that wasn't going with the crowd.  Do you have a devil's advocate who will argue with you about your ideas?  Maybe you should! Even if they're not very bright.  There's nothing like trying to explain physics to a barmaid to force you to use clear thinking.  And sometimes, the barmaid is right.

C)  What rule can you break?

Rules are good--usually.  But sometimes you can do something cool by breaking the rules. Ogden Nash used to do this with his poems by violating the rules of spelling to get something to rhyme.  As an example, look at the last two lines of his poem "The Panther":

     Better yet, if called by a panther . . . Don't anther!

It's a little silly, but that's the point.  As another example, look at this limerick that violates the "rules of limericks":

There was a young poet named Dan Whose poetry never would scan.

He said, "I try hard,
But I guess I'm no bard,
Because I always have to cram as many words into the last line as I possibly can."

Whoever wrote this limerick succeeded by breaking the rules in a beautiful self-referential way.

There's more, but I'd hate to steal all the thunder
from Roger von Oechs. I'll close by giving you a link to his book on Amazon.  It's a classic, and every time I read the thing, I somehow have a ton of creative ideas in the weeks that follow:
"A Whack on the Side of the Head: How You Can Be More Creative"

 

About The Author

Randy Ingermanson is a theoretical physicist and the award-winning author of six novels. He has taught at numerous writing conferences over the years and publishes the free monthly Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine.

 

 Randy Ingermanson Books at Amazon

 

More Advanced Fiction Writing

Overcoming the Fear of Not Being a Good Writer: Embracing Imperfection and Building Confidence

 

 by Olivia Salter

Learn how to overcome the fear of not being a good writer by understanding common writing fears, building confidence through regular practice, and seeking feedback from experienced writers.

Overview of Writing Anxiety

Writing anxiety can manifest in various forms, from the fear of judgment and criticism to feelings of imposter syndrome and rejection. These common fears can be daunting but are a natural part of the writing process. For instance, the fear of not being good enough is a prevalent concern that many writers grapple with, often hindering their creative expression and willingness to share their work with others. It's essential to recognize that these fears are shared by writers of all levels and can be overcome with persistence and self-belief.

Moreover, delving into the realm of psychological barriers, such as confirmation bias and cognitive dissonance, sheds light on how these factors impact the quality of writing outcomes. By acknowledging and addressing these barriers, writers can strive for more objective and authentic narratives. Confronting these fears and barriers head-on is the first step towards unlocking one's full potential as a writer. Remember, every successful writer has faced these challenges; it's how they navigate through them that sets them apart.

Common Writing Fears

As I stated above, many writers grapple with the fear of not being good enough, which often materializes as a fear of judgment, criticism, rejection, failure, imposter syndrome, perfectionism, self-doubt, and insecurity. These fears create psychological barriers that can lead to creative blocks and hinder the sharing of one's work with others. (I thought that statement needed to be reiterated.) For instance, the fear of criticism may prevent writers from expressing their authentic voice or exploring new ideas.

To combat these common writing fears, it is essential for writers to understand that facing these fears head-on is a crucial step towards growth and improvement. By acknowledging and addressing these fears, writers can gradually build confidence in their abilities and develop a more resilient mindset. For example, seeking feedback from experienced writers can provide valuable insights and constructive criticism that can help writers overcome self-doubt and refine their craft. Through consistent practice and a willingness to embrace imperfection, writers can navigate these fears and continue to evolve their writing skills over time.

Benefits of Writing Regularly

Engaging in regular writing practice not only hones your writing skills but also serves as a powerful tool to combat the fear of not being a good writer. When you commit to writing consistently, you open up avenues to explore your thoughts, emotions, and creativity, allowing you to express yourself more freely and authentically. For example, setting aside time each day to write, even if it's just for a few minutes, can gradually build your confidence and diminish the anxiety associated with not feeling good enough as a writer.

Moreover, the benefits of writing regularly extend beyond skill improvement. Embracing a consistent writing routine can lead to an overall enhancement in your mental well-being by providing a creative outlet for self-expression and reflection. As you nurture the habit of putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard on a regular basis, you are likely to notice a significant boost in your confidence levels, enabling you to tackle challenging writing tasks with more assurance and resilience. This dedication to the craft also fosters a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, reinforcing the idea that writing is a journey of growth and self-discovery.

 Tips for Overcoming Writing Fears

When facing the daunting task of putting words on paper, seeking feedback from seasoned writers can provide a fresh perspective and constructive criticism that can boost confidence and creativity. For instance, sharing your work with a writing group or mentor can offer insights that you might have overlooked, helping you grow as a writer and overcome self-doubt. By actively seeking feedback, writers can learn to embrace the iterative nature of the writing process, where each critique is an opportunity for improvement rather than a reflection of inadequacy.

Moreover, delving into past experiences and fears through writing can serve as a cathartic exercise that not only helps in understanding personal obstacles but also in finding the courage to confront and conquer them. For example, by articulating your fears on paper, you may discover that they hold less power over you than you initially thought, empowering you to move forward with your writing goals. Through this introspective practice, writers can transform their vulnerabilities into strengths and use them as fuel to propel their creativity and self-assurance.

Building Confidence as a Writer

Building confidence as a writer involves more than just putting words on paper; it's about believing in the value of your voice and ideas. One way to boost confidence is by setting small, achievable goals for your writing and celebrating each accomplishment, no matter how minor. For instance, completing a short story or receiving positive feedback on a blog post can reinforce your belief in your abilities and motivate you to keep writing.

Moreover, surrounding yourself with a supportive community of writers can significantly impact your confidence levels. Sharing your work with others who understand the challenges you face can provide valuable encouragement and constructive criticism. By engaging with fellow writers, attending writing workshops, or joining online writing groups, you can gain a sense of belonging and realize that you are not alone in your struggles. Remember, every writer, from beginners to bestsellers, has faced moments of self-doubt, but it's the resilience to keep moving forward that sets successful writers apart.

Conclusion: Overcoming Writing Anxiety

It's crucial to understand that the path to becoming a proficient writer is paved with continuous practice, self-reflection, and a willingness to improve over time. Every writer, regardless of their level of experience, faces moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. However, it's important to remind yourself that growth comes from embracing imperfection and learning from each piece of writing you create. For instance, famous authors like Ann Patchett and Ernest Hemingway have all encountered doubts about their writing abilities, but they persisted and grew through dedication and practice.

Seeking feedback from seasoned writers can provide invaluable insights into areas where you can enhance your writing. By actively seeking constructive criticism, you not only improve your skills but also bolster your confidence as a writer. Remember, even the most successful writers once started as novices. They honed their craft through perseverance, accepting feedback, and continuously challenging themselves to do better. So, view each writing obstacle as an opportunity for growth and a step forward in your writing journey.

Fiction Writing: Keep Readers Turning Pages by Olivia Salter

 

 Writing stories that hook your readers and keep them turning pages is a goal every aspiring author strives to achieve. The ability to captivate your audience from the first line and maintain their interest throughout the narrative is essential for a successful story. Whether you are writing a short story, a novel, or any other form of fiction, mastering the art of engaging storytelling techniques is key to holding your readers' attention.

Here are some strategies to help you write stories that hook your readers and keep them eagerly turning pages:

1. Start with a gripping opening:

The beginning of your story is crucial. You have a very limited opportunity to capture your readers' interest, so make the opening lines compelling. Start with action, mystery, conflict, or an intriguing question to hook your readers from the outset.

2. Create relatable and engaging characters:

Your characters are the heart of your story. Develop well-rounded characters that readers can connect with and care about. Give them unique personalities, motivations, and flaws to make them realistic and interesting.

3. Build tension and conflict:

Conflict is essential to keep your story moving forward and maintain your readers' interest. Introduce obstacles, challenges, and dilemmas that create tension and keep your characters and readers on edge.

4. Use vivid descriptions and sensory details:

Transport your readers into your story by painting vivid scenes with descriptive language and sensory details. Engage all five senses to create a rich and immersive reading experience.

5. Create a compelling plot:

Develop a plot that is engaging, unpredictable, and full of twists and turns. Keep your readers guessing and eager to find out what happens next.

6. Show, don't tell:

Instead of simply telling your readers what is happening, show it through actions, dialogue, and vivid descriptions. Let your readers experience the story alongside your characters.

7. Use pacing to your advantage:

Pace your story effectively by varying the speed of the narrative. Speed up during action-packed scenes and slow down during moments of reflection or introspection. This will help maintain your readers' interest and keep them engaged.

8. End chapters on a cliffhanger:

Leave your readers wanting more by ending chapters on a suspenseful note or a cliffhanger that compels them to turn the page and continue reading.

9. Create emotional resonance:

Make your readers feel something by incorporating emotional depth into your story. Develop themes that resonate with universal human experiences such as love, loss, betrayal, or redemption.

10. Revise and edit: 

Finally, polish your story through careful revision and editing. Eliminate any unnecessary or repetitive passages, tighten your prose, and ensure that your story flows smoothly from beginning to end.

In conclusion, writing stories that hook your readers and keep them turning pages requires a combination of engaging storytelling techniques, compelling characters, and a well-crafted plot. By incorporating these strategies into your writing process, you can create compelling narratives that captivate your audience and leave them eagerly anticipating what comes next.

 

 

Harnessing Yin and Yang: Using Opposing Forces in Fiction Writing

 

by Olivia Salter 

 

Thanks to Travis Knight, @TKComedy2013, for providing me the inspiration to write this article.

 

The yin and yang, paradoxically, hold the key to unraveling the truth in storytelling. It's the yin and yang that breathe life into the art of storytelling. Embracing both sides is what makes storytelling truly captivating.

 

Fiction writing, at its core, is about creating worlds and characters that are believable and engaging to readers. One powerful way to achieve this is by harnessing the concept of Yin and Yang, where opposing forces are used to create harmony and balance in a story.

 In fiction writing, the concept of Yin and Yang can be applied in various ways. For example, characters can embody opposing qualities, such as a protagonist who is both strong and vulnerable or an antagonist who is charming yet ruthless. By creating characters with conflicting traits, writers can add depth and complexity to their story, making it more compelling for readers.

 Another way to harness Yin and Yang in fiction writing is through the use of conflict. Conflict is essential for driving a story forward and keeping readers engaged. By introducing opposing forces, such as good vs. evil, love vs. hate, or order vs. chaos, writers can create tension and drama that propel the plot forward.

 Furthermore, the concept of Yin and Yang can also be applied to the structure of a story. By balancing moments of calm and chaos, light and dark, happiness and sorrow, writers can create a dynamic and emotionally resonant narrative that keeps readers invested until the very end.

 In conclusion, harnessing Yin and Yang in fiction writing can be a powerful tool for creating compelling and engaging stories. By incorporating opposing forces in characters, conflict, and structure, writers can achieve a sense of balance and harmony that enhances the overall quality of their work. So next time you sit down to write, consider the concept of Yin and Yang and how you can use it to strengthen your storytelling.