Unlock the Power of Internal Conflict to Hook Your Readers
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Understanding Conflict in Fiction
2.1 What is Conflict?
2.2 The Importance of Internal Conflict
- Creating Relatable Characters
3.1 The Equation of Conflict: Desire meets Fear
3.2 Why Internal Conflict Makes Characters Relatable
- Unveiling Your Character's Internal Conflict
4.1 The Dissatisfaction with Life
4.2 Beliefs About True Happiness
4.3 Actionable Steps and External Goals
4.4 Fear as an Obstacle
4.5 Making the Decision to Pursue the Goal
4.6 Accomplishing Goals while Avoiding Fears
4.7 Analyzing Tangled as a Story Example
- Incorporating Character Backstory
5.1 The Impact of Backstory on Conflict
5.2 Clearing Up Fuzziness with Fear, Desire, and Misbelief
- Conclusion
Understanding Conflict in Fiction
Conflict is a vital element in creating compelling and engaging stories. While conflict in the real world is something we often Seek to avoid, in books, it becomes the driving force behind the plot and character development. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of conflict in fiction, particularly focusing on internal conflict and how it shapes relatable characters.
Creating Relatable Characters
2.1 What is Conflict?
Conflict can be defined as the clash and interference of events in a story that spirals out of control. While external conflicts, such as the Titanic hitting an iceberg, may create some level of conflict, the true source of electricity in a story comes from the internal conflicts of the characters. External conflict encompasses the events and situations that happen in the story, while the internal conflict is the emotional struggle within the characters themselves. It is this internal conflict that gives meaning and depth to the external conflicts.
2.2 The Importance of Internal Conflict
Many books fall short of creating impactful stories because they focus solely on external conflicts and neglect the internal conflicts of the characters. While external conflicts may provide action-packed climaxes, readers often feel detached from the characters and fail to connect with their journey. The key to creating relatable characters lies in the equation of desire meets fear. This equation represents the internal conflict that every person experiences, making it universally relatable. By understanding and exploring this internal conflict, authors can create characters that resonate with readers on a deeper level.
Unveiling Your Character's Internal Conflict
3.1 The Dissatisfaction with Life
To uncover the internal conflict of your character, start by asking how they are dissatisfied with their life. This dissatisfaction acts as the underlying problem that has been brewing below the surface for a long time. It is essential to distinguish this from the inciting incident, which is the event that propels the character to step outside their comfort zone.
3.2 Beliefs About True Happiness
Next, delve into what your character believes will bring them true happiness or contentment. This logical solution to their dissatisfaction is often flawed and misguided. It is essential to ground this solution in something internal while still making it actionable and relatable to readers.
3.3 Actionable Steps and External Goals
Consider the actionable steps your character can take to turn their desires into a reality. These steps become the character's external goals, the tangible actions they must undertake to reach their solution. The specifics of these goals will vary for each character, depending on their unique circumstances and desires.
3.4 Fear as an Obstacle
Explore how your character's fear has kept them from taking action to pursue their goals. Fear is a universal emotion that affects everyone, and it plays a crucial role in developing internal conflict. By identifying the fears that hold your character back, you can create a compelling narrative that forces them to confront their fears head-on.
3.5 Making the Decision to Pursue the Goal
In storytelling, characters rarely decide to pursue their goals willingly. They are often pushed outside their comfort zones by external circumstances or the inciting incident. Consider what it would take for your character to finally make the decision to pursue their goal, keeping in mind that change is not easy. The decision must carry both external and internal consequences.
3.6 Accomplishing Goals while Avoiding Fears
Lastly, explore how your character feels they can accomplish their goals while still steering clear of the things they are afraid of. People resist change, and your character is no exception. They will try to find the clearest path with minimal obstacles to achieve their dreams. However, this approach often leads to unexpected consequences and allows for the exploration of internal conflict.
Incorporating Character Backstory
4.1 The Impact of Backstory on Conflict
A character's backstory plays a significant role in shaping their internal conflict. By delving into their past experiences and beliefs, authors can add depth and complexity to their characters' struggles. Backstory provides valuable insight into a character's motivations, fears, and desires, helping to explain their current conflicts.
4.2 Clearing Up Fuzziness with Fear, Desire, and Misbelief
As an author, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of your character's fear, desire, and misbelief. These elements form the core of their internal conflict and drive their actions throughout the story. By clarifying these aspects, you can ensure consistency and coherence in your character's journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, conflict is an essential ingredient in creating compelling fiction. By focusing on the internal conflict of characters, authors can develop relatable and engaging stories that leave a lasting impact on readers. Understanding the equation of desire meets fear and incorporating elements of backstory can add depth and authenticity to your characters. By embracing conflict, authors can bring their stories to life and captivate audiences.
Highlights:
- Understanding the importance of internal conflict in storytelling.
- Exploring the equation of desire meets fear and its relatability.
- Unveiling your character's internal conflict through thoughtful questions.
- Incorporating backstory to enhance conflict and character development.
FAQ:
Q: Why is internal conflict important in storytelling?
A: Internal conflict adds depth and relatability to characters, making them more engaging for readers. It allows readers to connect with the characters' struggles and empathize with their journey.
Q: Can You give another example of a story/movie with strong internal conflict?
A: One example is "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" by J.K. Rowling. Harry's internal conflict stems from his desire to belong and find his place in the wizarding world, while also grappling with the fear of Voldemort and the dark magic that surrounds him. This internal conflict drives the character's growth throughout the series.