Develop a sense of inevitability in the plot from "summary" of Plotting and Writing Suspense Fiction by Patricia Highsmith
In a suspenseful narrative, it is crucial to create a feeling of inevitability in the progression of events. This sense of inevitability can be achieved through careful plotting and foreshadowing throughout the story. By establishing a clear cause-and-effect relationship between the actions of the characters and the unfolding of the plot, the writer can build tension and anticipation in the reader. One way to develop this sense of inevitability is by ensuring that each event in the story logically follows from the one before it. This means that the actions and decisions of the characters must have consequences that lead to further complications and conflicts. By creating a chain of events that are connected in a clear and coherent manner, the writer can make the plot feel like a natural progression rather than a series of arbitrary occurrences. Another important aspect of creating a sense of inevitability is to plant seeds of future developments early on in the narrative. This can be done through subtle hints, foreshadowing, or recurring motifs that signal to the reader that certain events are bound to happen. By carefully laying the groundwork for future twists and turns, the writer can make the eventual outcome feel both surprising and inevitable at the same time. Transitions between scenes and chapters also play a key role in establishing a feeling of inevitability in the plot. By using smooth and seamless transitions, the writer can create a sense of continuity and momentum that propels the story forward towards its inevitable conclusion. This can help maintain the reader's engagement and investment in the narrative, as they are drawn along by the inexorable logic of the plot.- Developing a sense of inevitability in the plot requires a combination of careful planning, strategic foreshadowing, and skillful execution. By creating a clear cause-and-effect relationship between events, planting seeds of future developments early on, and using smooth transitions to maintain momentum, the writer can build tension and anticipation in the reader, leading them inexorably towards the climax of the story.
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