Crafting Compelling Fiction: Balancing Plot and Character
Written on
Chapter 1: The Essence of Storytelling
Plotting fiction can often be a challenging endeavor, and I want to add some depth to our previous discussions on this topic.
I have come to the realization that focusing solely on plot can lead to a mechanical outcome devoid of emotional richness. Approaching storytelling merely as a series of puzzles can result in narratives that lack soul. There is certainly a place for such narratives—mysteries and science fiction abound with them—but I am drawn to narratives that evoke real emotions or highlight fundamental human truths.
To achieve this, it's essential to create engaging characters with whom readers can connect.
In the first part of this series, I shared my process: "I develop a character and then follow their journey, often unsure of the story's deeper meaning. I simply find the character or their circumstances intriguing." Upon reflection, I believe this method is valid, as long as it is not pursued without consideration for the underlying premise.
Section 1.1: The Role of Premise
A premise is the foundational idea that supports the plot. Consider a well-known premise: A menacing shark terrorizes a coastal town, and the local sheriff must confront this threat. The plot unfolds through a series of events that fulfill the promise of that premise. In this scenario, the sheriff partners with a marine biologist and a skilled fisherman to confront the beast in its own environment. While a strong character or premise can inspire a writer, balancing both is crucial for crafting a story that resonates emotionally.
If you develop a plot from a premise without considering character, you risk creating a Puzzle Story. Conversely, if character serves as your starting point but you neglect the premise, you end up with a Character Study. Both forms have their merits, yet neither is complete on its own. Personally, I lean towards Character Studies, but that doesn't diminish the importance of premise. I should embrace my interest in character while also recognizing the significance of premise.
Section 1.2: Knowing Your Ending
Many writers advocate knowing your ending to allow for reverse-engineering the plot. While there's some validity to this idea, treating it as an absolute can be misleading. Many authors embark on their narratives without a clear ending in mind. Strict adherence to the "know your ending" philosophy can lead to formulaic storytelling, stifling the creativity inherent in the writing process. If an ending emerges organically during outlining, it should be embraced. However, writing is not a mere equation; dismissing a narrative simply because the conclusion isn't immediately apparent can be a mistake. If the characters, premise, setting, and themes are compelling, the story deserves the chance to unfold.
To summarize my evolving strategy: When plotting, imagine tossing two "stones" into a pond—one representing Character and the other representing Premise. The intersection of their ripples gives rise to the plot.
Chapter 2: Evolving Perspectives
In the video "Critics LEAK 'Joker 2' PLOT!!," insights are shared about upcoming narratives and character arcs, providing a fascinating perspective on how plot elements can shape storytelling.
The video "I Read 3 Romantasy Books and I'm SHOCKED By the Winner | Kindle Unlimited" dives into the unexpected outcomes of character-driven narratives, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections in fiction.