Plot – The Middle

Being a pantser, I am no expert on plotting.  But I do realize how important it is.  Without a strong plot, the author will lose the reader’s interest.  As important as the beginning of the plot is to grab the readers and ‘hook’ them, the middle is even more important. 

The middle of a plot is the longest part.  It starts right after the introduction, right when the conflict begins.  And then, it takes almost the entire book to get to the resolution or to that dreaded black moment.  The middle of the book is most complicated.  It can be the called the “sagging middle” or it can hold onto the reader and keep their interest until they are on the edge of their seat.  That’s the kind of middle plot you want to write.

There are many, many suggestions on plot on the internet.  In the three act structure, the middle is the second act.  It’s defined as the beginning of the characters journey.  Mixed in with this act are sub plots.  Subplots, if woven like an intricate web, should always have some effect on the main characters.  A sub plot can be an obstacle or some form of help or myriad of other things.  Here’s a source for more help:  Introduction to Plotting the Novel’s Middle.  http://www.novel-writing-help.com/plotting-the-novel.html

Also, Larry Brooks teaches a great class called Story Structure.  If you get a chance to take it, it’s worth the money.  Larry says the middle of the plot is part two and three, the reaction and the attack.  http://storyfix.com/

Either way, the middle is what makes up the majority of your book.  It’s the conflict, the fight, the struggle. 

To plot out the middle of your story, you have to find the method that works the best for you. 

Laurel
www.laurel-odonnell.com