What is plot meaning? How can you write a thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats? This blog post will explore these questions and more. Thriller writing is an art form that requires skill and creativity. It can be challenging to generate suspense and tension in your readers, but with practice, you can become a master of the genre. This blog will provide tips for creating an exciting plot that keeps your readers hooked.
What is a plot, and why is it important?
The plot meaning of a story is the sequence of events that make up the story and the order in which they occur. It is also sometimes called the “storyline.” The plot can be considered the story’s skeleton, onto which the characters, setting, and other elements are added.
A crafty and involved plot holds everything together and helps readers make sense of all the events within the main story of a literary or dramatic work. It is one of the most critical components in any piece of fiction as it is how a reader connects with and understands your narrative.
Elements of plot – exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution
Exposition
Introduce the characters, their goals and motivations, the conflict they face (internal or external), and the resolution of that conflict. It is also essential to consider the setting, symbolism, and themes you may explore in your story.
Characters
When constructing the characters of your thriller, it’s essential to ensure they are well-rounded and believable. For example, the protagonist should be a likable character with flaws that readers can relate to. On the other hand, antagonists should be portrayed as unpredictable and threatening so that readers will want to see them defeated in the end. Creating a cast of supporting characters is also vital to add more depth to the story.
Rising action
A compelling story needs an engaging plot that keeps readers invested. This can be achieved by introducing rising stakes, creating tension, and providing unexpected turns in the storyline. Adding enough tension, fear, and suspense to carry the story forward is essential to creating a successful thriller plot. It should leave readers on edge as they wait to see what will happen next.
Climax
A climax in a thriller plot is the moment of highest suspense and excitement, often occurring near the end of the story. It’s the point at which the protagonist faces their biggest challenge and most dangerous opponent. To achieve victory, the hero must use their skills and resources to their utmost potential. This is what makes for an electrifying and exhilarating climax.
For example, in Jaws, the climax occurs when Brody finally faces off against the shark in open water.
Falling action
In a thriller plot, the falling action occurs after the climax and is usually used to resolve any remaining conflicts. It can also be used to provide suspense and anticipation for the reader as they near the end of the story.
Typically, the falling action will consist of a few scenes in which the protagonist deals with the aftermath of their confrontation with the antagonist.
Resolution
Finally, create a satisfying resolution that brings the whole story circle and fulfills any promises made in the beginning. Ensure that your main character has achieved their goals and that any antagonists have been overcome.
The resolution should bring the main plotline to an end and tie up any loose subplots or storylines. Ensure all characters have a feeling of closure and that the reader feels comfortable with the conclusion. Even if there is no happy ending, it gives readers a sense of hope that things will turn out okay. It would be best if you strived to make any resolution both satisfying and memorable.
All these components must work together for a story plot to be successful.
How to create a compelling plot for your story
When developing your plot, it’s essential to clearly understand the genre you are writing for and the conventions that come along with it. Thrillers, in particular, have certain expectations from readers that must be met for the story to be successful.
A compelling narrative needs an engaging plot in the main story that keeps readers invested. This can be achieved by introducing rising stakes, creating tension, and providing unexpected turns in the storyline.
Begin with an inciting incident and as the plot thickens, follow it up with multiple scenes featuring conflict and resolution. Then, use flashbacks, dream sequences, and other narrative techniques for added texture to the story.
During the rising action, increase tension by introducing obstacles along with twists and cliffhangers. Adding enough tension, fear, and suspense to carry the story forward is essential to creating a successful thriller plot. It should leave readers on edge as they wait to see what will happen next.
Finally, ensure a satisfying climax and resolution that ties together the threads of the plot.
Examples of well-known stories with strong plots
A climax in a thriller plot is the moment of highest tension and excitement. One classic example is the story of the hero who goes on a journey to find a magic cure that will save his people. This type of plot is found in many stories, from The Odyssey to The Lord of the Rings. In each case, the hero must overcome challenges and obstacles to achieve his goal.
Another common type of plot is the rise-and-fall story. This plot involves a character who starts in a position of power or wealth but then falls into ruin. Examples of this include Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman.
And a well-told love story can be incredibly moving and emotionally powerful. Examples of this type of plot include The Notebook, Romeo and Juliet, and Pride and Prejudice.
The importance of plotting your story before you start writing
Developing your literary or dramatic plot before you start writing is important for a few reasons:
– First, having an elaborate and systematic plan of action can help you get a sense of the structure of your story and how all the pieces fit together. This can be helpful not only for plotting out each scene but also for mapping out the overall arc.
– Second, it can help you stay on track as you write by ensuring that each scene furthers your plot and moves the story forward.
– Third, planning your story can help you avoid getting stuck during the writing process. Knowing what happens next makes you less likely to get stuck when writing that section.
– Some writers find it helpful to use a graphic representation or a plot verb showing time and place in a storyline. The best way to find out what works for you is to experiment with different methods and see what helps you tell your story most effectively.
Tips for keeping your plot on track during the writing process
– Make a plot outline. This will help keep your story on track and give you a roadmap to follow as you write.
– Stick to the plot points in your outline. Don’t allow yourself to get sidetracked by irrelevant plotlines or subplots.
– Write every day. This will help keep your momentum going and ensure you stay on schedule.
– Take breaks when necessary, but try not to stray from your plot for more than a day or two.
Conclusion
Remember that the sky is the limit for thrillers. Be imaginative, be daring, and don’t shy away from taking risks to craft a captivating story that will keep your readers thrilled until the very end. Good luck!
I hope you found this article helpful!
If you’re working on your first novel and are looking for more help with your writing, please check out my other writing articles at https://ullahakanson.com/blog/
All the best,
Ulla