May Mania ~ Stretch #9

Ponder desire. Some wants are won, some lost. In real life many wars, arguments and wrestling matches arise because of opposing desires. One of the best aspects of any written work is conflict. It is the driving force, the hook that never loses its barb. So any exercise you can do to sharpen conflict-wielding skills, will improve your storytelling craft overall.

Think of something you once wanted so badly, food, love, sex, education, a peaceful morning, a raise, an answered prayer, a room for the night, $5 because you haven't had a meal in two days. Now imagine another character who could easily give it to you, but refuses for one reason or another. Delve into and expose that conflict. Consider the many ways to push and pull. Try to shift the conflict in a surprising direction, add a twist or an apparent misunderstanding in the end. For instance, maybe character 1 assumes character 2 is being stubborn and wretched, while he/she is actually doing a loving thing.

Dissecting and building conflict for even a small scene, will help you understand its importance and apply those battle skills to longer works.

~ Signing off and sending out cyber hugs.