Writing Craft: Backstory and Front-Story | Advanced Fiction Writing

Craft: Backstory and Front-Story

by Randy Ingermanson

Advanced Fiction Writing

Every character in your novel has a past, a present, and a future.

The future is fuzzy and out of focus, but your characters think they know what they want their future to be. 

The future that your protagonist wants is called the “story goal” for your novel, and it drives your story forward.

Your front-story is whatever is happening right now as your protagonist tries desperately to reach his or her story goal. 

The front-story is the reason your reader reads. Without a front-story, your novel is dead in the swamp. As much as possible, you need to always keep your front-story on center stage in your novel.

But your character has a past also—all the things that happened in their life that made them the person they are today. That past is called “backstory.”  

Backstory Matters

Backstory matters a lot. Nobody just walks onto the stage of your story without a past. Everybody carries baggage. The older you get, the more baggage you carry, unless you learn to let go. And nobody ever lets go of it all.

But backstory can be a story-killer. Reading a novel that begins with a huge lump of backstory is like going out on a first date and spending the whole time hearing about the other person’s miserable, horrible, no-good, very bad childhood. 

There’s a place for backstory. That place is not at the beginning of the story. At the beginning of the story, you want to be focusing on the front-story. The stuff that’s happening right now.

In Star Wars, we spend quite a lot of time getting to know Darth Vader before we ever learn that he’s Luke’s daddy. If we found that out in the first ten minutes, we wouldn’t care. Because we wouldn’t know Vader and we wouldn’t know Luke enough to care yet. But at the right place in the story, that little bit of backstory carries the force of a proton torpedo.

The Cardinal Rules of Backstory

So how do you know when to bring in backstory?

Here’s are two simple rules I use that guide me well most of the time:

• Bring in the backstory at exactly the point when the reader must know it in order to make sense of the scene I’m writing right now. 
• Tell only as much backstory as the reader needs to understand just this one scene.

These are not iron-clad rules. They’re useful rules of thumb. Use them when they improve your story. Ignore them when they don’t.

The TV series Lost used backstory heavily. Lost had a very large cast of characters, and it took many episodes to get to know them all. 

Typically, each episode highlighted just a few characters, and one or two of those would have a flashback that showed off some essential piece of backstory in their lives.

When I say “some essential piece of backstory,” I mean that piece is essential to understand the episode in which it appears.

Over the course of six seasons, we saw more and more backstory about each character, and understood them better and better.  

If you liked Lost, I suspect that part of the reason you liked it was that the backstory was strong. The backstory served the front-story.

Developing Your Backstory

There are two basic ways that novelists use to create their backstory:

• Figure it out before you need it
• Make it up as you need it

People who like to plan their novel before writing it (such as outliners or Snowflakers) usually figure out most of their backstory before they write their novel. Of course, during the process of writing the story, they’ll think up new bits of backstory and add that to whatever they started with.

People who like to write their novel without preplanning it (such as seat-of-the-pantsers and edit-as-you-go writers) usually make up backstory as they’re writing scenes. Then when the story is finished, they may need to do some work to make it all consistent and fill in any gaps. 

It really doesn’t matter which way you do things. Your brain is wired to favor one method over another, and I don’t recommend fighting the wiring in your brain. Work with your brain, not against it.

But however you prefer to work, I strongly recommend that you spend some time making sure your backstory is strong. It should be a reasonable explanation of how your character came to be the person they are. It should increase the conflict your character feels during the front-story.

Editing for Backstory

I also strongly recommend that when you edit the second draft of your novel, you should fire-test each chunk of backstory as it comes up in the story. Could you delay telling this bit of backstory until later in the story? Would that improve things? If the backstory is essential right now, could you tell less of it? Would that improve things?

The goal here is not “to get rid of all the backstory.” That would be like cutting off your nose to improve your smile.

The goal here is “to use the backstory to make the front-story as good as possible.”

This article is reprinted by permission of the author.

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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.

 

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Mastering the Art of Red Herrings: Crafting Deceptive Clues in Fiction

By Olivia Salter

In the intricate dance of storytelling, one of the most effective techniques for maintaining reader engagement is the use of red herrings. These clever misdirections not only keep readers guessing but also enhance the depth of your narrative, allowing for surprising twists and enriching character development. When executed skillfully, red herrings can lead readers to draw false conclusions, creating a satisfying sense of surprise when the truth is finally revealed. Here’s how to skillfully incorporate red herrings into your fiction writing.

Understanding Red Herrings

A red herring is a literary device designed to mislead or distract readers from the actual plot or truth. It can take the form of misleading clues, character behaviors, or seemingly significant events that divert attention away from the real narrative thread. The key to a successful red herring lies in its subtlety; it should feel plausible enough for readers to believe in its significance while still allowing for the eventual revelation of the truth.

Creating Effective Red Herrings

To effectively employ red herrings in your writing, consider the following strategies:

1. Planting Plausible Clues

For a red herring to work, it must be grounded in the story’s context. Introduce elements that appear relevant but ultimately lead nowhere. For instance, if your plot revolves around a mysterious murder, you might introduce a character with a suspicious background who seems to have a motive. Readers will naturally begin to draw connections, only to be led astray when the truth is unveiled. Ensure that the clues you plant are believable and align with the story’s overarching themes.

2. Leveraging Character Behavior

Character actions and motivations can serve as a rich source of red herrings. A character who acts suspiciously may seem guilty of wrongdoing, but this behavior could stem from personal issues unrelated to the plot’s central mystery. By crafting complex characters with multifaceted motivations, you can mislead readers while simultaneously deepening their understanding of the character’s psyche. This not only creates tension but also adds layers to your narrative.

3. Utilizing Setting and Context

The setting of your story can also provide fertile ground for red herrings. Introduce elements within the environment that seem to hold significance. For example, a seemingly innocuous object found at a crime scene may lead readers to believe it’s a crucial clue, when in fact, it serves only to mislead. By weaving setting details into the narrative, you enrich the story while steering readers towards false conclusions.

Building Suspense Through Misdirection

Red herrings thrive on suspense. To maximize their impact, maintain a steady build-up of tension throughout your narrative. Here are a few techniques to consider:

1. Create Compelling Subplots

Subplots can serve as excellent vehicles for red herrings. Introduce secondary storylines that seem important but ultimately distract from the main plot. By weaving these subplots into the narrative, you can create a sense of complexity that keeps readers engaged while leading them astray.

2. Pace the Revelation of Clues

Strategically reveal your red herrings at a measured pace. Avoid overwhelming readers with too many clues at once; instead, allow them to piece together information gradually. This not only heightens suspense but also encourages readers to invest time and energy into solving the mystery themselves.

3. Balanced Clue Placement with Genuine Leads

While red herrings are designed to mislead, it’s crucial to balance them with genuine clues that contribute to the plot’s resolution. Readers should feel that they are on the right track, even if they ultimately arrive at a false conclusion. This balance keeps the narrative engaging and encourages readers to remain invested in the outcome.

The Payoff: Delivering the Truth

The true artistry of red herrings lies in the payoff—the moment when the truth is revealed and the misleading clues are unraveled. To ensure this moment is impactful, consider the following:

1. Build to a Climactic Revelation

The truth should emerge at a pivotal moment in your narrative, ideally during a climactic scene that ties together all plot threads. This revelation should feel like a natural progression from the buildup of clues and character arcs, allowing readers to experience the shock of realization while still feeling satisfied with the narrative’s coherence.

2. Reflect on the Misleading Clues

After the truth is unveiled, take a moment to reflect on the red herrings that led readers astray. This can be achieved through character dialogue or narrative exposition, allowing readers to appreciate the intricacies of the plot. Highlighting how the misleading clues shaped their understanding of the characters or setting can lead to deeper reflections on the story’s themes.

In conclusion, incorporating red herrings into your fiction writing can elevate your storytelling by creating intrigue and surprise. By planting plausible clues, leveraging character behavior, and utilizing setting details, you can skillfully mislead readers while enriching their understanding of the narrative. The key is to maintain a delicate balance between misdirection and genuine leads, ultimately delivering a satisfying revelation that leaves readers both surprised and enlightened. Mastering the art of red herrings will not only enhance your plots but also engage readers in a thrilling journey of discovery and reflection.

The Art of Tension: Creating a Snap in Fiction Writing

The Art of Tension: Creating a Snap in Fiction Writing

By Olivia Salter

In the realm of fiction writing, tension is the lifeblood of storytelling. It stirs emotions, propels plots forward, and keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Building tension effectively requires skill, patience, and an understanding of the psychological mechanics that keep readers invested in the narrative. Once the tension reaches its peak, delivering a satisfying "snap" can lead to a powerful emotional payoff. Here’s how to master this essential technique in your writing.

Understanding Tension

Tension in fiction can be defined as the emotional strain that arises from conflict, uncertainty, or anticipation within a story. It can manifest in various forms, including interpersonal conflict, suspense, or the threat of impending doom. The key to building tension lies in creating stakes that matter to your characters and, by extension, your readers.

1. Establish Clear Stakes

Before you can build tension, you need to establish what’s at stake. Whether it’s a character’s safety, a relationship, or a significant goal, readers must understand why they should care about the outcome. For example, if your protagonist is trying to save a loved one, the stakes are clear: failure could mean loss, heartbreak, or even death.

2. Introduce Conflict Early

Conflict is the engine of tension. Introduce it early in your narrative to hook readers and set the stage for escalating stakes. This conflict can be external (a looming threat, an antagonist) or internal (a character grappling with their fears or desires). The interplay of these conflicts will create a rich tapestry of tension.

Building Tension Gradually

Once the stakes are clear and conflict is introduced, it’s time to build tension gradually. This can be achieved through a variety of techniques, including:

1. Use Pace to Your Advantage

Varying the pace of your writing can significantly impact the tension. Short, clipped sentences can create a sense of urgency, while longer, descriptive passages can prolong the suspense. As the story progresses, alternate between these styles to maintain a dynamic rhythm that keeps readers engaged.

2. Create Uncertainty

Uncertainty is a powerful tool in building tension. Withhold information from your readers, introduce red herrings, or present characters with difficult choices that have no clear right answer. The more uncertain the outcome, the more tension you create. Keep your readers guessing and invested in the result.

3. Heighten Emotional Stakes

As the story unfolds, amplify the emotional stakes for your characters. Show how the conflict affects them personally and emotionally. Use internal monologues, character backstories, and relationships to deepen the reader’s connection to the characters and their struggles.

The Snap: Delivering the Payoff

After meticulously building tension, the moment of release—the "snap"—is crucial. This is where the tension culminates in a dramatic event, revelation, or twist that provides a satisfying payoff for the reader.

1. Timing is Everything

The timing of your snap is essential. Too early, and the tension feels unearned; too late, and your readers may lose interest. Aim for a climax that feels both surprising and inevitable, allowing readers to reflect on the buildup as they process the outcome.

2. Ensure Emotional Resonance

The snap should resonate emotionally with your readers. Whether it’s a shocking twist, a character’s sacrifice, or a hard-won victory, the outcome should feel significant. This emotional payoff is what lingers in readers’ minds long after they’ve finished the story.

3. Leave Room for Reflection

After the snap, provide a moment for readers to catch their breath. Allow them to process the consequences of the climax. This moment of reflection can deepen the impact of the story and give readers a chance to appreciate the journey they’ve taken alongside your characters.

In conclusion, building tension and delivering a snap is an art form that can elevate your fiction writing to new heights. By establishing clear stakes, introducing conflict, creating uncertainty, and delivering an emotionally resonant climax, you can craft stories that captivate and thrill your readers. Remember, the journey of tension is just as important as its resolution. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll master the delicate balance between suspense and satisfaction, leaving your audience eagerly awaiting your next tale.

Writing Quote: Writers end up writing about their obsessions. Things that haunt them; things they can’t forget; stories they carry in their bodies waiting to be released. -- Natalie Goldberg

 

Unleashing the Haunting Muse: Writing from Obsession

 

By Olivia Salter

 

Exploring the Depths of Fiction through Personal Fixations

Writers are like archaeologists of the soul, digging through layers of memory, emotion, and experience. They unearth their obsessions—the persistent ghosts that haunt their minds—and transform them into stories that resonate with readers. Natalie Goldberg eloquently captures this process: “Writers end up writing about their obsessions. Things that haunt them; things they can’t forget; stories they carry in their bodies waiting to be released.”

In this article, we delve into the significance of writing from obsession, how it fuels creativity, and the delicate balance between catharsis and craft.

The Power of Obsession

1. The Unforgettable Echoes: Our obsessions linger like half-remembered dreams. They tug at our sleeves, demanding attention. Whether it’s lost love, childhood trauma, or an unfulfilled desire, these echoes shape our narratives. Writers channel these emotional imprints into characters, settings, and plotlines.

2. The Authentic Voice: Obsessions bypass the censor. They bypass the rational mind and tap into raw, unfiltered emotions. When writers embrace their obsessions, their prose gains authenticity. Readers recognize the truth in those words—they’ve felt it too.

Navigating the Abyss

1. The Fine Line: Writing from obsession can be therapeutic, but it’s a tightrope walk. Too much personal catharsis risks self-indulgence. Too little, and the writing lacks depth. Finding the balance is an art.

2. Transmutation: Writers alchemize their obsessions. They take pain, longing, and joy, and transmute them into universal themes. The heartbreak becomes a character’s grief; the longing becomes a quest. This alchemy bridges the gap between writer and reader.

Crafting the Haunting Narrative

1. Digging Deeper: Writers must excavate their obsessions. Journaling, introspection, and meditation help. What memories cling like cobwebs? What fears lurk in the shadows? These are the seeds of powerful stories.

2. Symbolism and Metaphor: Obsessions find expression through symbols. A recurring image—a broken mirror, a locked door—becomes a motif. Metaphors weave the haunting threads into the fabric of the narrative.

 

in conclusion, Natalie Goldberg’s wisdom reminds us that writing isn’t just about plot twists and clever dialogue. It’s about unearthing our obsessions, those buried treasures waiting to be released. So, fellow writers, embrace your ghosts. Let them whisper their secrets. Write from the marrow of your bones, and your fiction will resonate far beyond the page.

Remember: “Writers end up writing about their obsessions. Things that haunt them; things they can’t forget; stories they carry in their bodies waiting to be released.”

 

What haunts you? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

 Penning Prose: Choosing a Name for Your Writer’s Site 

By Olivia Salter

Choosing a name for your writer’s site is an exciting step. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Pen Name: If you write under a pen name, consider using it as your domain name. It aligns with your brand and makes it memorable for readers.

2. Book Title: If you’ve written a book, using its title can be effective. For example, if your book is called “Midnight Whispers,” consider a domain like “MidnightWhispers.com.”

3. Genre-Specific: Tailor your name to your genre. For crime novels, “Ali Knight” might work better than “Allison Potter” because it fits genre expectations.

4. Demographic: Think about your target readers. Are they young or older? From a specific region? Choose a name that resonates with them.

5. Memorable and Brandable: Make it easy to remember. Avoid overly complex or generic names.

6. Check Availability: Before deciding, ensure the name is available for social media and website purposes.

Remember, your writer’s site is your online presence, so choose a name that reflects your style and resonates with your audience.

 

If you need more inspiration, you can explore pen name generators like Reedsy’s Pen Name Generator or My Pen Name. They offer a wide range of pseudonyms to kickstart your creativity! 

 

Also see:

• GreenGeeks Web Hosting: Web Hosting that's fast, secure & eco-friendly.
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The Rashomon Effect: Crafting Complex Narratives Through Multiple Perspectives

In the world of fiction writing, one powerful technique that can add depth and intrigue to a story is the Rashomon Effect. Named after Akira Kurosawa's groundbreaking film "Rashomon," this narrative device explores the idea that truth is subjective and can vary depending on who is telling the story. By employing the Rashomon Effect, writers can create rich, multifaceted narratives that challenge readers' perceptions and engage them in a deeper exploration of character motivations and themes.

Understanding the Rashomon Effect

At its core, the Rashomon Effect centers around the concept that different characters can perceive the same event in vastly different ways. Each character's perspective is shaped by their unique backgrounds, biases, and experiences, leading to conflicting interpretations of reality. This approach not only adds complexity to the narrative but also invites readers to question the nature of truth and the reliability of memory.

In Kurosawa's film, four characters recount their experiences related to a violent incident, with each version revealing different truths and motivations. This structure encourages viewers to consider how subjective perspectives can distort reality, highlighting the idea that there is rarely a single version of the truth.

Incorporating the Rashomon Effect in Your Story

1. Choose a Central Event: Start by identifying a pivotal event in your narrative that will serve as the focal point for multiple perspectives. This could be a crime, a betrayal, a significant decision, or any moment that carries weight for your characters. The event should be impactful enough to elicit strong emotional responses and varying interpretations.
2. Develop Distinct Characters: Create diverse characters with unique backgrounds, beliefs, and motivations. This diversity will influence how each character perceives the central event. Consider their personal stakes, biases, and past experiences to ensure that their perspectives feel authentic and grounded.
3. Vary the Narrative Style: Use different narrative styles or points of view for each character's account. For example, one character might narrate in the first person, while another uses third person, or you could incorporate diary entries, flashbacks, or interviews. This variation can help convey the distinct voice and mindset of each character, enhancing the richness of their perspectives.
4. Reveal Contradictions: As each character recounts their version of events, allow their stories to contradict one another. These inconsistencies can serve as a tool for tension and intrigue, prompting readers to piece together the truth. Consider how each character’s emotions and biases shape their narrative, leading to conflicting details and interpretations.
5. Encourage Reader Engagement: The Rashomon Effect invites readers to actively engage with the narrative. Challenge them to interpret the truth based on the differing accounts presented. This interaction not only deepens their investment in the story but also encourages critical thinking about the nature of truth, memory, and perspective.
6. Conclude with Ambiguity: Rather than providing a definitive resolution, consider ending your story with ambiguity. Leave readers pondering the complexities of truth and the motivations behind each character’s perspective. This open-endedness can spark discussions and interpretations, making your story memorable and thought-provoking.

Themes to Explore

Utilizing the Rashomon Effect allows writers to explore various themes, including:

• Subjectivity of Truth: Highlight how personal biases and experiences shape perceptions of reality.
• Memory and Trauma: Examine how traumatic experiences can alter memories and lead to conflicting narratives.
• Morality and Justification: Challenge characters' moral compasses and the justifications they create for their actions.
• Human Nature: Delve into the complexities of human relationships and the motivations that drive individuals to manipulate or distort truth.

In conclusion, the Rashomon Effect is a powerful storytelling technique that can elevate your narrative by introducing complexity and depth. By weaving together multiple perspectives, you create a tapestry of truths that challenge readers' assumptions and invite them to engage with the story on a deeper level. When executed thoughtfully, this approach not only enhances character development but also encourages readers to reflect on the nature of truth in their own lives. So, embrace the Rashomon Effect in your writing, and watch as your stories transform into rich, multifaceted explorations of human experience.

The Art of Struggle: Crafting Resilient Characters Through Adversity

In the realm of storytelling, characters serve as the heartbeat of any narrative. They drive the plot, evoke emotions, and engage readers. However, one of the most potent tools a writer can wield is the power of adversity. By placing characters in challenging situations, writers not only enhance the complexity of their arcs but also create a more rewarding experience for the audience when those characters ultimately triumph.

The Importance of Obstacles

Obstacles are the crucibles in which characters are tested. They can take many forms: internal conflicts, external challenges, moral dilemmas, or even life-threatening situations. The key is to present characters with obstacles that resonate with their goals, desires, and fears. This connection makes the struggle feel authentic and allows readers to invest emotionally in the outcome.

When characters face difficult obstacles, they are forced to confront their weaknesses and limitations. This process of suffering and struggle is essential for growth. It offers opportunities for transformation, allowing characters to evolve in ways that are believable and relatable. Audiences love to see characters who start in a vulnerable place, confront their demons, and emerge stronger on the other side.

Building Tension Through Suffering

Suffering is not merely about inflicting pain; it’s about building tension and creating stakes. When readers witness a character enduring hardship—be it loss, betrayal, or failure—the emotional weight of the narrative intensifies. This tension keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eager to see how the character will respond and whether they will rise to the occasion.

Consider the classic hero’s journey. From Frodo’s arduous trek in "The Lord of the Rings" to Katniss Everdeen’s fight for survival in "The Hunger Games," these characters face insurmountable odds that test their resolve. The pain they endure not only makes their eventual victories more satisfying but also highlights the themes of resilience and hope.

Creating Depth Through Flaws

Characters are often more relatable when they possess flaws that hinder their progress. These flaws can be fears, insecurities, or past mistakes that haunt them. By incorporating these elements, writers can create multidimensional characters who struggle with their own inner demons while battling external challenges.

For instance, a character may be driven by ambition but struggle with the guilt of sacrificing relationships. Their journey to reconcile these conflicting desires can serve as a powerful narrative arc. As they navigate through their obstacles, they may learn valuable lessons about balance, empathy, and self-acceptance, ultimately leading to a more profound triumph.

The Sweet Taste of Victory

When readers witness characters overcoming formidable obstacles, the payoff is immense. A hard-fought victory feels earned, creating a cathartic experience for the audience. It’s the culmination of the journey, the moment when all the suffering and struggle coalesce into a satisfying resolution.

This sense of triumph can manifest in various ways: achieving a long-held dream, mending broken relationships, or simply finding inner peace. Regardless of the outcome, the key is that it resonates with the character's growth and the lessons learned along the way.

In conclusion, incorporating difficult obstacles and allowing characters to suffer is essential for crafting compelling narratives. It adds depth, tension, and emotional resonance, ultimately leading to a more rewarding experience for both the characters and the readers. As writers, embracing the art of struggle not only enhances our storytelling but also reflects the complexities of the human experience, reminding us that triumph is often sweetest when it follows hardship. So, challenge your characters, let them suffer, and watch as they rise, stronger and more resilient, to captivate your audience.