Part VI: Fiction
Fiction also has a simple formula
(but make sure you read the next section about formulas).
You first must set up a character that will interest and
fascinate and engage your reader.
Dear reader does not have to love or even like the character,
but must be involved in that character's quest.
Most importantly, the reader must identify with the character.
This brings us to the second part of the formula: a goal.
The character must have one, and it must be clear and attainable.
As an example, let's take a look
at that upstart author J.R.R. Tolkein
(Do you think he's going to get anywhere in this industry?).
Tolkein gives us Frodo and Bilbo in the Shire.
Bilbo has a goal of bringing peace to the Shire, correct?
Not really. How do you define "peace"?
When do you know you have achieved it?
How immediate is this goal? It is simply not good enough.
Instead, Bilbo's goal is to destroy the evil ring.
Now, that's a concrete goal. Everyone will know when it is achieved,
and those who want to foil our hero
can do it easily and clearly by keeping him from destroying the ring.
But where do you go from there?
You have crafted your interesting character.
You give your interesting character a goal. Your story is the journey to get to that goal.
Is that journey going to be easy?
If it is, you won't have much of a story.
A Word About Formulas
Formulas are only for guidance. When a story becomes "formulaic",
that means it is predictable.
Some predictable elements: the trusted best friend turns out to be the surprise traitor.
The too-good-to-be-true love interest is already married or not what he/she seems.
The knight in shining armor is really an evil wizard in disguise.
Remember Snow White's innocent old woman with the apples?
You can think of others, we are sure. Formulas are good for keeping you organized,
but they are only a springboard for more complexity and variation in your story.
Now, you have the main elements necessary to make a zillion bucks as a writer
(We, personally, are still waiting…), or to enjoy yourself while trying, which is more to the point.
So go to it, write on, and have a blast!
Let us know of your successes and challenges: cosmicart@stock-space-images.com