To create a cohesive and engaging story, the following elements should be well-developed and well-crafted as they’re the foundation for a narrative structure.
- CHARACTERS
Characters are a critical component of any story as they’re a way for the reader to connect with the narrative. They can take different forms, from human beings to animals, supernatural beings, or even inanimate objects that have human-like qualities. They can be the protagonists, the antagonists, or supporting characters that help to move the story forward. Each one should have their own unique personality, motivation, and backstory. They should also be believable and relatable to the reader, even if they’re not human. - PLOT
The plot is the sequence of events that make up a story. It’s the series of actions, conflicts, and resolutions that move the story forward and keep the reader engaged and invested in the narrative.
A plot should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, with each event leading logically and organically to the next. The events of the story should also be connected, with each one contributing to the overall narrative and advancing the story forward. It involves a balance between action, suspense, and character development. - SETTING
The setting is the place, time, and environment in which the story takes place. It can be a real or imaginary location, and it can take place in the past, present, or future. It influences the mood, tone, and atmosphere of the narrative. It can also affect the characters’ behaviours, beliefs, and values, as well as the plot and themes of the story. - CONFLICT
Conflict is the central tension or problem that drives the story forward. It can be internal or external and can be resolved in a variety of ways. It also allows the characters to grow and develop as they face and overcome obstacles. It should also be related to the overall themes and messages of the story, helping to explore and develop these ideas through the characters and their struggles. - THEME
The theme is the underlying message or idea that the story conveys, providing a deeper level of meaning beyond the surface plot and characters. It can be a moral or lesson, or it can be a broader commentary on society or the human condition. The theme can provoke thought and emotion in the reader and create a lasting impact. - POINT OF VIEW
Point of view refers to the perspective from which the story is told. It can be first-person, second-person, or third-person, or even multiple points of view. It can affect how the reader perceives the characters and events in the story. Choosing the right POV for a story is crucial in creating the desired effect. - TONE
The tone is the attitude or mood that the story creates. It can be serious, humorous, melancholy, or any number of other emotions, and can contribute to the overall impact of the story by influencing the reader’s interpretation of the events and characters in the story.
Kate Halena 