Creating your Plot

The plot of a novel is its central storyline—the sequence of events and actions that unfold over the course of the book. It is the backbone of the narrative, driving character development and thematic exploration.

A plot typically includes the following sequence of events:

:

Introduction:

• Introduces the setting, characters, and initial situation.

• Establishes the world of the story and sets the stage for the conflict.

• The introduction should be exciting and hits the reader with a punch. Thus capturing their attention, forcing them to read more.

Inciting Incident:

• The event or decision that sets the main story in motion.

• It disrupts the status quo and propels the protagonist into the central conflict.

Rising Action:

• A series of events and challenges that complicate the central conflict.

• The events often escalate as the story progresses, raising the difficulty for the main character.

• Builds tension and deepens character relationships and stakes.

Climax:

• The turning point of the story, often the moment of greatest tension or conflict.

• The protagonist faces their biggest challenge or makes a critical decision.

Falling Action:

• The consequences of the climax unfold.

• Tension decreases as the story moves toward resolution.

Resolution:

• The conflict is resolved, and loose ends are tied up.

• Provides a sense of closure or a hint of what lies ahead for the characters.

  
  

Example:

For a novel like "Whiskey One", the plot might look like this:

• Exposition: Introduces the remote mining outpost, its crew, and their mundane but challenging lives on the asteroid.

• Inciting Incident: A galactic standoff begins, threatening the outpost.

• Rising Action: The team struggles for survival, navigating alliances and betrayals. Surviving a fighting withdrawal the taking the fight to the enemy.

• Climax: The final confrontation were the two adversaries meet.

• Falling Action: They confront the fallout of their choices and the cost of survival.

• Resolution: The survivors adapt to a changed reality, forging a new beginning or cementing their legacy.

*Note - I would love for you to read Whiskey One, so the examples details aren't a true reflection of the events.

Having multiple plots in a novel can enrich the story, adding depth, complexity, and a dynamic reading experience. Multiple plots typically involve a main plot and one or more subplots that intertwine with or run parallel to the main storyline.

Here’s how it works:

Main Plot vs. Subplots

Main Plot:

• The central storyline that drives the novel and resolves the primary conflict.

• Typically focuses on the protagonist and their journey or goal.

Subplots:

• Secondary storylines that add layers to the main plot.

• Often involve supporting characters or delve into themes that complement the main narrative.

  
  

Example:In the military sci-fi novel Whiskey One, the main plot might be the miners' struggle to survive the galactic standoff. A subplot could explore personal rivalries or a budding romance among the crew, adding emotional depth.

Benefits of Multiple Plots

Character Development:

• Subplots can reveal facets of the characters that might not surface in the main plot.

• Example: A character's past trauma influences their decisions in the main conflict.

Theme Exploration:

• Subplots can explore secondary themes, enriching the narrative.

• Example: While the main plot addresses survival, a subplot might examine loyalty or betrayal.

Pacing and Engagement:

• Switching between plots can maintain reader interest by providing variety.

• Example: After an intense battle scene in the main plot, a quieter subplot can offer a breather.

Complexity and Realism:

• Life rarely unfolds along a single thread; multiple plots make the story feel more authentic and layered.

Interweaving the Plots

Connection to the Main Plot:

• Subplots should relate to or influence the main plot, even if indirectly.

• Example: A romantic subplot may drive a character to make a crucial sacrifice during the climax.

Timing and Balance:

• Introduce and develop subplots at strategic points to avoid overwhelming the main storyline.

• Ensure the resolution of subplots doesn’t overshadow the main plot.

Cross-Pollination:

• Characters and events from different plots can intersect, creating tension or synergy.

• Example: A seemingly minor conflict in a subplot triggers a major turning point in the main plot.

Examples of Novels with Multiple Plots

"The Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien:

• Main plot: Frodo's quest to destroy the One Ring.

• Subplots: Aragorn's rise as king, Sam and Frodo’s evolving friendship, and Merry and Pippin's growth as leaders.

"Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen:

• Main plot: Elizabeth and Darcy’s love story.

• Subplots: The romances and challenges faced by Elizabeth's sisters, such as Lydia’s scandal and Jane’s heartbreak.