‘As long as you actively pursue your dream, your life expands.’ (232)
Plot
Alderson defines ‘plot’ in terms of how events directly impact the main character, suggesting we plot (or graph) the turning points of the novel, but also the character’s emotional development.
The plot is divided into key moments that serve to build tension — End of the Beginning, Halfway Point, The Crisis, The Climax — culminating in the Resolution.
The protagonist’s motivation must be clear. In the middle, the protagonist will undergo a transformation and their goal is redefined.
As Alderson suggests, there should be a balance between slow, complex scenes and scenes that move the story along.
Self-doubt
Alderson likens the story’s crisis to the writer’s ego and internal obstacles, suggesting the writer — like the protagonist — must take action in order to continue. They must ‘recommit to the craft’.
It is about recognising self-doubt and focusing energy into the work, instead of letting the ego self-sabotage.
‘A story is about the protagonist reclaiming her own personal power. The same applies to you on your writer’s journey.’ (166)
Curiosity
Alderson asks us to consider how curiosity works, suggesting the author reserve backstory for the middle when the reader cares about the character.
She advises to start with ‘immediate moment to moment action’.
Emotional Conflict
Consider the external and internal obstacles the protagonist must overcome. Each scene must build on the next, expanding the reader’s understanding of character whilst building tension.
‘When we know how the conflict emotionally affects the character, we care about the story.’ (99)
Edit
In the editing process, the writer should foreshadow the character’s emotional development, grafting on specific details to the draft.
In support of building tension — and setting reader expectations — scenes should be arranged by cause and effect.
‘…remind yourself why you should… grow and change and live a more expanded, joyful life.’ (233)
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Reference: Alderson, M. (2011). The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master. Adams Media, Simon & Schuster.