Plot is the series of actions characters take to move the story forward.
Plot: it’s the backbone of every story. It's the series of events that propel your characters forward and keep your readers engaged. But crafting a compelling plot is more than just stringing together a sequence of actions. It's about carefully selecting events that resonate with your characters and evoke powerful emotions in your readers.
Every event in your story should have meaning for at least one character. This is what transforms a mere sequence of happenings into a narrative that leaves a lasting impact. It's about giving your readers an emotional journey that stays with them long after the final page.
To construct a robust plot, we need to approach it from different levels:
The Single-Sentence Summary: This is your story's elevator pitch. It's a concise overview that captures the essence of your novel.
The Three-Act Structure: A classic framework, this divides your story into three parts: setup, confrontation, and resolution. A major turning point at the end of Act One is crucial to propel your protagonist forward.
The Synopsis: A two-page summary that fleshes out the main plot points and character arcs.
The Scene List: A blueprint of your story, outlining each scene with a brief description, setting, time, and characters involved.
The Scene: A detailed exploration of a specific moment in your story, typically spanning several pages.
The Paragraph: The building blocks of your scenes, where you craft the emotional impact of your story.
Each layer of your plot should contribute to the overall emotional experience for your reader. Aim for emotional punches in your paragraphs and powerful emotional crescendos within your scenes. The collective impact of these emotions should create a lasting impression when the book concludes.
Remember, not every scene needs to be a rollercoaster of emotions. The contrast between high and low points can be just as effective. The key is to ensure that every element of your plot serves a purpose in creating a meaningful and emotionally resonant story.
Understanding all layers of plot is crucial for constructing your plot layer by layer and by focusing on the emotional impact of each scene, you'll be well on your way to crafting a truly unforgettable narrative.