Lesson 6. Changes of State, Part II │The Mechanics of Fiction Writing
Understanding the Interplay of Character and Plot
The Importance of Characters in Plot Development
- The speaker emphasizes that both character and plot are essential components of storytelling, warning against neglecting one for the other.
- It is highlighted that plot and character are deeply intertwined; characters' actions significantly influence the story's progression.
- The discussion introduces how characters act to change the state of the storyworld, focusing on their goals as a driving force.
Goals: The Catalyst for Change
- A character's goal is defined as their desire to alter something within the storyworld, which can vary in significance.
- The term "MacGuffin" is introduced, referring to an object or goal that drives a character's actions but may not be central to the plot itself.
Plans: Structuring Actions Towards Goals
- Plans are described as calculated sequences of events aimed at achieving a goal, illustrating how they guide characters' actions.
- The necessity for plans to involve risk is discussed; mundane plans lack suspense unless heightened by external threats (e.g., zombies).
Actions: Executing Plans and Achieving Goals
- Actions must be taken by characters to effect change in the storyworld; these can range from simple tasks to high-stakes endeavors.
- An action is characterized as a deliberate step taken by a character, often motivated by an underlying goal and plan.
Moves: High-Stakes Decisions That Engage Readers
- A "move" involves significant risk and high-priority goals, generating suspense and keeping readers engaged with the narrative.
- Moves create tension within stories; readers become invested when they perceive potential failure in critical moments.
Causality: The Backbone of Dynamic Storytelling
- The speaker discusses causality as a key element of plot development—events lead into one another dynamically throughout a narrative.