Tension is like the special ingredient that makes stories exciting. It raises the stakes and makes readers want to keep reading. Here’s how it works:
Types of Conflict:
External Conflict: This is when characters face challenges from outside forces. These can be other characters, society, or even nature. Think of classic good vs. evil stories. When the stakes are high in these battles, the tension grows.
Internal Conflict: This is about what’s going on inside a character’s mind. They might be dealing with feelings like guilt or trying to figure out who they are. These internal struggles can create a strong type of tension, pulling readers deeper into the character’s story.
Building Tension:
Pacing: Slow things down during important moments. Let readers really think about what a character is feeling or deciding. This makes the upcoming challenges seem even bigger.
Cliffhangers: End chapters or sections with questions or problems that are not solved. This will make readers think, "What happens next?" and keep them curious.
Higher Stakes: As the story moves along, raise what’s on the line. Whether it’s a character’s safety or their beliefs, the more they have to lose, the more readers will care.
From my experience, mixing both internal and external conflicts creates a rich feeling of tension. It’s like a dance between what’s happening outside and what’s happening inside a character. By carefully increasing tension, we make sure our stories stay engaging and touch the hearts of readers. It’s the ongoing push and pull that keeps the story alive!
Tension is like the special ingredient that makes stories exciting. It raises the stakes and makes readers want to keep reading. Here’s how it works:
Types of Conflict:
External Conflict: This is when characters face challenges from outside forces. These can be other characters, society, or even nature. Think of classic good vs. evil stories. When the stakes are high in these battles, the tension grows.
Internal Conflict: This is about what’s going on inside a character’s mind. They might be dealing with feelings like guilt or trying to figure out who they are. These internal struggles can create a strong type of tension, pulling readers deeper into the character’s story.
Building Tension:
Pacing: Slow things down during important moments. Let readers really think about what a character is feeling or deciding. This makes the upcoming challenges seem even bigger.
Cliffhangers: End chapters or sections with questions or problems that are not solved. This will make readers think, "What happens next?" and keep them curious.
Higher Stakes: As the story moves along, raise what’s on the line. Whether it’s a character’s safety or their beliefs, the more they have to lose, the more readers will care.
From my experience, mixing both internal and external conflicts creates a rich feeling of tension. It’s like a dance between what’s happening outside and what’s happening inside a character. By carefully increasing tension, we make sure our stories stay engaging and touch the hearts of readers. It’s the ongoing push and pull that keeps the story alive!