The one trick you can use to progressively move your story forward

Writing a novel or a short story requires a well-calculated progression, building the stakes and drawing the reader deeper into the plot. Understanding the reversibility of your character's decisions is a compelling technique for achieving this momentum. This one trick can make all the difference in creating a dynamic and engaging storyline.

The question of reversibility

In the context of storytelling, reversibility refers to the ability of a character to undo a decision they've made. It's a measure of the weight and consequence of the choices they face. By asking yourself the question, "How difficult would it be for my character to reverse their decision?" you can gauge the impact of that decision on the story.

Why is reversibility important?

Reversibility shapes the stakes, tension, and drama in your story. Here's how:

Building the stakes

The more irreversible a decision is, the higher the stakes become. If a character's choice leads them down a path from which there is no return, the tension and reader's investment in the outcome increase.

Adding depth to characters

Understanding the reversibility of decisions adds complexity to your characters. It shows their commitment, determination, and the weight they give to their choices. Characters grappling with irreversible decisions are often more nuanced and relatable.

Creating a smooth progression

By gradually making decisions more irreversible, you can create a natural and compelling progression in your story. It's a way to escalate the conflict and draw the reader deeper into the plot.

Applying reversibility in your writing

Here's how you can practically apply the concept of reversibility to your writing:

1. Identify Key Decisions: Outline the critical decisions your characters will make and ask yourself how reversible each one is.
2. Create a Scale: Consider ranking decisions on a scale of reversibility, from easily reversible to completely irreversible. This ranking can guide the structure of your story.
3. Use It Strategically: You don't have to make every decision irreversible. Play with varying levels of reversibility to create a dynamic and engaging narrative.
4. Show the Consequences: If a decision is irreversible, showcase its impact on the character and the story. It should resonate with the reader and affect the story's outcome.

Turning points in storytelling

Understanding reversibility is not just a trick; it's a nuanced approach to shaping your story's turning points. By giving thought to how reversible or irreversible a decision is, you create layers of complexity that contribute to a richer, more captivating story.

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References

1. Coyne, Shawn. 2015. The Story Grid. New York, NY: Black Irish Entertainment.

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