Conflict. Tension. Opposing forces. Today’s writing tip may seem basic and obvious, but it’s surprising how many stories either back into the action or mosey down a long road before revealing the central problem. I’m reminded of the murder mystery saying: “There had better be a dead body on the first page.” Exceptions may abound, but a close examination will likely reveal tension from the first sentence of a compelling novel of any stripe.
Witness the opening of a wonderful novel called The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacquelyn Kelly:
BY 1899, WE HAD LEARNED to tame the darkness but not the Texas heat. We arose in the dark, hours before sunrise, when there was barely a smudge of indigo along the eastern sky and the rest of the horizon was still pure pitch.
In the very first line we understand that the narrator is in conflict with the hot climate of Texas at the turn of the twentieth century. We don’t know who the character is, but we already know the tension exists, if only with the environment.
Writing Tip for Today: Giving your character a clear goal is only part of the novel picture. That goal must also be opposed in some way. Opposition may be in the form of another person or persons, Nature (weather, earthquakes or other phenomenon) or even oneself. Bringing conflict to the opening lines of your work will help the reader become involved and want to come along for the ride. The concept of in media res (in the middle of the action) is useful to help you get going with the novel’s tension rather than try to slowly build up to it. Remember, conflict on every page means your character’s feet are held to the flame at all times. This will maximize your story’s chances of become a compelling and memorable read.
