A good complication illuminates, thwarts, or alters the character's desire.
A good complication forces the character to act.
A good complication offers the story a point of departure.
A good complication raises the stakes.
A good complication thickens the plot.
~ Monica Wood, The Pocket Muse
So very true - makes me feel better for torturing my characters :)
ReplyDeleteHow's the injury coming along?
Excellent points -- the line between good complications and gimmicks, though, can be quite blurry.
ReplyDeleteThe "injury" is seeing a surgeon today and then has an appointment to see two other surgeons on Monday. I've just been in a holding pattern this past week because all the surgeons have been out for spring break. I just hope I pick the best one. Thanks for asking Jemi :)
ReplyDeleteAwesome - I like it! :-)
ReplyDeleteDoes "The Pocket Muse" live up to its title?
ReplyDeleteI like this! I'm in the midst of a new first draft- complications are good!
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