The plot of a story describes the series of events that make up the story whole. While narratives are also a key component of non-fiction recounts, this post will exclusively discuss plot in terms of fictionalised stories. Plot is often thought as making up a series of linear events chained together via cause and effect, though the plot can just as easily be presented out of order to the reader or viewer experiencing the story for whatever artistic purpose. One can look to Quentin Tarantino’s filmography including the cult classic Pulp Fiction for examples of a non-linear narrative. The plot is often the most recognisable aspect of a work of fiction, blurbs for novels, for example, will almost always give a brief outline of the premise, the setting and possibly the main complication of the story, more so than the themes or the characters. In the case of very popular and long standing characters, however, such as superheroes such as Superman or classic characters such as Sherlock Holmes, the character and the overall premise or Status Quo of these characters could be argued to be more important to a buying consumer than the plot of whatever individual story they are currently in. Here's an illustration of how the plot structure effects tension and audience engagement in the classic Star Wars movie.
In some respects, the plot forms the skeleton of a work of fiction, serving as a structure for the characters and themes. Without plot, the ideas presented often lack a grounded reality, leaving the reader confused and trying to figure out what is going on, rather than making an emotional connection with the story. Every story has plot holes, which is a logical inconsistency in the plot, whether it be because of a clash of character motivation and actions, or a breaking of physical limitations, especially if the story breaks its own established internal logic. However a well written story will minimise or hide such inconsistencies and ease the reader or viewer into a head space where the abstract ideas presented make sense on some emotional level, and it is essential that writers consider the logic of a plot for their audience as they write. The story itself could also be closely tied to the themes, for example, with the story structure of 'The Hero's Journey' (Joseph Campbell, Hero With A Thousand Faces) the themes have a very close relationship to each of the many detailed steps of the structure. Moreover, a story might use plot as a continued hook, using plot twists to surprise the reader and encourage them to continue reading. In a detective story, the plot is also the most important aspect of the narrative, as it invites the reader to figure out what is going on, and to read on in order to understand the narrative.
There are many different plot structures, but one of the most common is the Three Act Structure.
Put simply, the First Act will introduce the central characters and the setting. The first act will establish a Status Quo, which by the end of the first act and by the start of the second act, will have in some way been shattered. As an example, In The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, the Status Quo and the reality of the main cast is shattered as they pass through the wardrobe and into a new, unfamiliar world.
The Second Act is dedicated to preparation for Act Three and the building of tension and character relationships. Any subplots in the narrative will likely start and end during Act Two as well. Act Two will usually be where most of the narrative takes place.
As the plot nears its conclusion and the tension has been sufficiently built, Act Three begins. Act Three is where the Climax will take place, the complication introduced in Act One will be solved, and Act Three will end with a gentle release of tension as the Status Quo is restored, or a new one is established.
There are many different ways to structure a plot. For any budding writer, it may seem important to be original, in order to stand out from other writers. While this may be true in many respects, it is also important to remember that an original or seldom used plot structure is very hard for a new writer to effectively craft, and it can easily lead to writer’s block. When in doubt, studying a well-worn plot structure can be a good way to effectively get your ideas onto paper. For a carpenter, a sturdy, four legged chair will serve their customers better than a disjointed pile of interestingly cut wood.
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