Writing
Every great story is built upon the foundation of an engaging plot. It is the driving force behind the narrative, the sequence of events that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.
The use of descriptive language is also critical in strong narrative writing. Effective use of sensory detail can help readers visualize and experience the story just as the characters do, making the story more impactful.
7 Elements of Strong Narrative Writing
Narrative writing involves telling a story or sharing an experience through the written word. It could be fiction or nonfiction, often focusing on character development, plot, and conflict.
Strong narrative writing aims to engage readers emotionally and take them on a journey through the story, capturing their attention and providing insight into the human experience.
1- Plot
The plot is the sequence of events that make up the story. It typically includes an introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.
2- Characters
Characters are the individuals or entities that drive the story.
Regarding authors like Colleen Hoover, who is known for writing key elements include compelling characters that readers can connect emotionally and a well-defined setting that immerses readers in the story.
Below are the types of the characters:
- Protagonist:
The protagonist is the main character of the story. They are typically central to the plot, and their actions drive the narrative forward. Readers often identify and empathize with the protagonist.
- Antagonist:
The antagonist is the character or force that opposes the protagonist. They create conflicts and obstacles for the main character to overcome. Antagonists can be individuals, groups, or internal struggles within the protagonist.
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Supporting Characters:
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Foil Characters:
Foil characters are designed to contrast with the qualities or characteristics of another character, often the protagonist. The stark differences between the two can highlight certain traits or amplify conflicts, making them more prominent to the reader.
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Setting:
The setting refers to the time and place the story takes place. A well-described setting can help create a vivid backdrop for the events and enhance the reader’s immersion in the story.
3- Conflict
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Internal Conflict:
Internal conflict occurs within a character’s mind or emotions. It involves a struggle between opposing desires, beliefs, or needs. For example, a character may struggle to make a difficult decision or battle their fears and insecurities.
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External Conflict:
External conflict refers to conflicts between a character and an external force. This could include conflicts with other characters, societal norms, nature, or external obstacles. External conflicts can create tension and drive the plot forward.
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Man vs. Man:
This type of conflict involves a direct struggle between two or more characters. It could be a physical confrontation, a clash of ideologies, or a rival competition.
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Man vs. Society:
Man vs. society conflict occurs when a character or group of characters faces opposition or conflict with societal norms, expectations, or institutions. This could involve challenging social injustice or fighting against oppressive systems, employing the same critical perspective that think the writer of a biography uses.
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Man vs. Nature:
This type of conflict involves a character struggling against the forces of nature, such as extreme weather, natural disasters, or survival in a hostile environment.
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Man vs. Supernatural:
Man vs. supernatural conflict occurs when a character battles against supernatural beings, forces, or phenomena. This could involve encounters with ghosts, monsters, vampires, or other paranormal elements.
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Man vs. Technology:
This conflict arises when characters face challenges or conflicts with advanced technology or artificial intelligence. It could involve themes of human dependence on technology or the potential dangers of technological advancements.
4- Theme
The theme is the central idea or message the author wants to convey through strong narrative writing. It is the underlying concept or moral that readers can derive from the events and the characters’ experiences, steering clear of any notion of ghost authorship in the creative process.
5- Point of View
Point of view refers to the perspective from which the story is told. It can vary between first person (using “I” or “we”), second person (using “you”), or third person (using “he,” “she,” “they”). The choice of point of view shapes the reader’s experience and understanding of the events.
6- Tone
7- Dialogue
Dialogue is the conversation between characters in a story. It reveals information, adds depth to the characters, and advances the plot. Well-crafted dialogue should sound natural and contribute to the overall flow of the narrative.
Final Words:
Strong narrative writing aims to transport the reader to another world, to create a shared experience that will stay with them long after they have finished reading. This is achieved by creating relatable characters, vivid settings, and engaging storytelling that takes the reader on a journey of discovery and growth.