Structure of a Novel by T.M Clark

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Delve into the elements necessary for crafting a compelling story/narrative.
Including:

• an exploration of the three-act structure

• discuss the setup confrontation, and resolution phases

• analysing how each contributes to the overall story arc.
   

Plot development techniques, including:

• the introduction of inciting incidents

• building rising action/tension

• providing satisfying resolutions.
   

How Many Story Structure Ways?

There are too many to mention them all. Here are a few - some I had never
heard of before!

• The Fichtean Curve

• The Seven Point Structure

• The Three Act Structure

• Dan Harmon’s Story Circle

• The Hero's Journey

• The Snowflake Method

• Freytag's Pyramid

• Save The Cat Beats

• The Five Act Structure

• The Story Spine

• And more…
   

Who is credited for the 3-Act structure?

• Ancient Times: Aristotle

• Modern Times: So many different people with different theories. Aristotle, an ancient Greek philosopher and playwright outlined
  the basic principles of  structure, including the concept of a beginning, middle, and end, which laid the foundation for the three-act structure.
  I listed a few before. It is interesting to see what they are - but its a rabbit hole and I’d rather spend my time writing!

• In Real life: Every story is a mash-up of all the theories. Learn the structure… then play with it - see what works for you.
   

The 3-Act Structure Is Just Another Tool In The Writer’s Toolbox

Remember, this is how I look at this; it is not the only way. If it works for you, great. If it doesn’t go try something else.

Don't get bogged down in the technicalities. Just write - most people will do this structure automatically, especially long-time readers. There are

editors who will help you rearrange the structure (structural edit) if it doesn't hang together well.

It’s important to just write the story!

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What is Story Structure?

Beginning - Middle – End

Story structure is known BASICALLY as plot structure or narrative structure. A loose way of ordering the events

in your book. A beginning, a middle, and an end. With a zillion different ways that you can present your events within

a story in between. It's nothing fancy - it's how you hang your book together.

Note: The Denouement - “the final part of a play, film, or narrative in which the strands of the plot are drawn together and matters are explained or resolved.” Oxford Dictionary
 

A Really Basic 3-Act Structure - The Little Mermaid

Beginning: There is a mermaid who lives under the sea and longs to live on land.

Trigger: She rescues Prince Eric from his shipwreck.

Problem: She wants to be with him

Disaster: Ursula, the sea witch, tricks her.

Climax: Eric kills Ursula to free Ariel.

Resolution: Her father, King Triton grants her legs so that she can live with Eric on land and have a happy ever after.
 

3-Act Structure - more examples

This example intrigued me as it was half giving the writer directions and half giving ‘prompts’ and questions.

3-Act Structure from Christopher Vogler’s – Hero’s Journey.

 

3 Act Structure

I like and loosely follow

A little bit that you need first to understand this version of 3-Act Structure:

Plot development techniques:

• the introduction of inciting incidents

• building rising action/tension

• providing satisfying resolutions.

Remember, in the beginning, I said we would cover these points...They are just not in the order you expected them. I think this is why

everyone gets lost. They get bogged in the technical side of all the names of these points on the graph. Don’t get bogged down!

They are all just part of the craft of writing. Many people call the same thing by different names (as you will see in this presentation) and that’s okay. As long as you get the general idea of 3-Act Structure, it’s fine.

What everything is called is IRRELEVANT!!!!!

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The Introduction of Inciting Incidents

By effectively introducing the inciting incident, writers can hook readers' interest, stablish the central conflict of the story, and lay the

groundwork for the narrative to unfold. I want you to think of your story. And then write quickly, a little on each of these…QUICKLY being

the key here as it’s just notes to jar your memory later.

Establish Context: Begin by establishing the setting, time period, and the main characters involved. This helps readers understand the

world of the story and the characters' circumstances before the inciting incident occurs. This will sound familiar later (beginning of

story points) - there is a crossover… see not so much work… just knowing where things fit…

Create Intrigue: Introduce elements of intrigue or mystery that pique readers' curiosity and draw them into the story. This could

involve hinting at conflicts, secrets, or unresolved questions that will be explored later on.

Foreshadowing: Use foreshadowing to hint at the inciting incident before it occurs. Foreshadowing creates anticipation and builds suspense as readers anticipate how events will unfold. DON'T sledge hammer foreshadowing… use it sparingly, like glitter.

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Exercise – write down 10 ideas for this story. “We are at home and we want to go and get food…”

• Don’t use any - they are generally the brain’s easy way out

• 10 more ideas.

• DON’T Cheat… 
   

Let’s choose one from this list.

Remember: an inciting incident—a specific event or action that disrupts the status quo and sets the main conflict of the story in motion.

The inciting incident should be significant enough to propel the story forward and create a sense of urgency or purpose for the main characters.

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Exercise: As a group - shout out…and everyone write these down.

2nd list - everyone write them down.

• Create Tension/Rising Action: Establish Consequences/Stakes

• Create Tension: Plan to build tension gradually leading up to the inciting incident by introducing obstacles, conflicts, or dilemmas that hint at the impending change or disruption to come.

• Establish Consequences: Show the immediate consequences or fallout of the inciting incident, highlighting the impact it has on the characters and their world. This helps readers understand the stakes involved and why the characters must respond to the inciting incident.

• Building Rising Action/Tension: You can effectively build rising action and tension, keeping readers engaged and invested in the narrative as your story unfolds. Building rising action and tension in a story involves gradually increasing the stakes, conflicts, and obstacles faced by the characters as the narrative progresses. Here are some techniques writers use to achieve this.

• Introduce Conflict: Start by introducing the central conflict or problem early in the story. This conflict sets the stage for the rising action and provides a foundation for tension to build upon.

• Raise the Stakes: Continuously raise the stakes for the characters by escalating the consequences of their actions or decisions. As the story unfolds, the risks and consequences become more significant, increasing the tension and urgency of the situation.

• Complicate Matters: Introduce new complications, obstacles, or challenges that hinder the characters' progress towards their goals. These complications add layers of complexity to the story and make it more difficult for the characters to achieve their objectives

• Heighten Emotional Conflict: Explore the internal conflicts and emotional struggles faced by the characters. By delving into their fears, doubts, and desires, you can create a deeper sense of tension and anticipation as readers become invested in the characters' emotional journeys.

• Use Cliffhangers: End chapters or scenes with cliffhangers or unresolved questions to keep readers engaged and eager to continue reading. Cliffhangers create suspense and anticipation, driving the narrative forward and maintaining momentum. (Note: It’s an idea not to leave a book on a cliffhanger unless the next one is out within a week or so… some readers get cranky…say you broke your promise. Make it clear from the beginning that it’s having another book afterwards; some might wait for that one, too, before reading.)

• Create Time Pressure: Introduce time pressure or deadlines that force the characters to act quickly and make difficult decisions. The sense of urgency adds tension and raises the stakes as the characters race against the clock to achieve their goals.

• Foreshadowing: Use foreshadowing to hint at future events or developments in the story. Foreshadowing creates anticipation and suspense as readers anticipate how events will unfold based on the clues provided. What did we decide on from our Inciting Incidents:
  “You and me are here, and want to go get food…” What did we choose from the list? Donald Maass (agent extraordinaire) says: “Whatever you are doing to your character, make it worse.” How much worse can we make this inciting incident? (Raise the tension) F we start with a rope for a hanging… can he survive it - if the rope breaks, if the Knot is tied wrong… BUT if he faces a Guillotine? Hoe much worse is it…Mobs of people (same) Bloodthirst mob behaviour? Chances of it failing???Zero… Up’ed the tension and the stakes….

• Check: Building Rising Action/Tension: Planners and Pantsers can do this: It took me till book 4 to get this done… but now I love the idea. To check that you have kept increasing the action and tension: (When planning before you write or checking in edit after your book is done, it is good to do it twice. If you are a pantser, then once is fine.) Use different-coloured post it notes for each character. e.g. Red for villains. Blue for hero. Purple for a heroine. Green for elephant. Khaki for 2nd hero. Small summary of the story into characters and events in that chapter. For me - action adventure thriller novels - There needs to be a touch of red from the beginning of the story, but by the end, there needs to be a ‘sea of red’. This is where the climax is going to happen.

 

Done in OmniGraffle (paid Mac product)

Check on what we have done so far:

Delve into the elements necessary for crafting a compelling story/narrative.

 Including:

• an exploration of the three-act structure

• discuss the setup, confrontation, and resolution phases

• analysing how each contributes to the overall story arc.

Plot development techniques, including:

• the introduction of inciting incidents

• building rising action/tension

• providing satisfying resolutions.
   

Without these 2 items, exploring the 3-Act structure wouldn’t make as much sense as it does now.

Showing again the Three Act Structure Tina loosely follows:

Beginning - Act 1

SET UP

Ideally:

Meet your character/protagonist first up.

Be doing something interesting (action).

Introduces the reader to the character’s personality and situation.

Act 1 - Beginning

Lord of the Rings - Fellowship of the Ring: “It all begins with the forging of the

great rings.”

“The Lord of the Rings” begins with the forging of the One Ring by the Dark Lord Sauron in the fires of Mount Doom. The ring grants him immense power, but it also corrupts him, leading to his downfall. After Sauron is defeated and the ring is lost. Eventually, it falls into the possession of Gollum, who after over 500 years loses it/it abandons him to be picked up by Bilbo Baggins.

Shrek - “Shrek” begins with the character, an ogre, enjoying his solitary life in his swamp. However, his peaceful existence is disrupted when a large number of fairy tale creatures are banished to his swamp by the evil Lord Farquaad, ruler of the nearby Duloc.

Pretty Woman - Vivian is a vivacious and streetwise prostitute working on Hollywood Boulevard. Edward Lewis, is a wealthy businessman, driving badly through Los Angeles after leaving a stuffy party…

My Brother-But-One by Tina Clark - Australian, Ashley goes to Africa as a volunteer.

Act 1 - Trigger/Inciting incident

Ideally:

•Something happens that makes the character go somewhere or do something

•Sets the character off on a journey

Remember we just did inciting incidents a moment ago…

Act 1 - Trigger/Inciting incident

Lord of the Rings - Book 1: Fellowship of the Ring — Frodo Baggins inherits the One Ring from his uncle, Bilbo Baggins. Bilbo's decision to leave the Shire and pass on the Ring to Frodo sets the story in motion by thrusting Frodo into the central role of the Ring-bearer. Frodo learns The Shire is in danger, and he must go on a quest to destroy the ring; he starts his journey towards the town of Bree to meet Gandolf at the Inn.

Shrek - Lord Farquaad, the ruler of Duloc, exiles all fairy tale creatures from the kingdom and they arrive in Shrek's swamp. This disrupts Shrek's solitary and peaceful life, prompting him to confront Lord Farquaad and demand the return of his swamp. This event sets Shrek on his journey to confront Farquaad and eventually leads to his unexpected bond with Donkey and his quest to rescue Princess Fiona from the dragon-guarded tower.

Pretty Woman - Edward lost on Hollywood Boulevard ends up hiring Vivian for directions, then to be his escort for the evening. This chance encounter sets the stage for their unlikely relationship and forms the basis of the story's central conflict and romance. (Trope - they are both fish out of water with each other.

Act 1 - 2nd Thoughts

Lord of the Rings - Frodo experiences moments of doubt and hesitation, particularly after learning about the true nature of the One Ring and the dangers it poses. One significant moment occurs early in the story when Frodo first learns from Gandalf about the history of the Ring and its connection to the Dark Lord Sauron. This revelation fills Frodo with apprehension and uncertainty about the burden he now carries. Additionally, Frodo expresses his doubts and fears to Gandalf and later to his friends as they embark on their journey from the Shire. These moments of hesitation highlight Frodo's internal struggle and the weight of responsibility he feels as the Ring-bearer, but ultimately, he resolves to undertake the quest to destroy the Ring, despite his fears.

Shrek - After the fairy tale creatures invade his swamp and disrupt his peaceful solitude, Shrek initially seems content to confront them and demand they leave. However, as he interacts with Donkey and learns about Lord Farquaad's involvement, Shrek begins to doubt whether confronting Farquaad is the best course of action. He expresses reluctance and uncertainty about leaving his swamp to confront Farquaad, indicating his internal conflict and second thoughts about embarking on this journey. Ultimately, Shrek decides to confront Farquaad and sets off on his quest, but his initial hesitation demonstrates a moment of doubt and introspection.

Pretty Woman - One significant moment where Edward's doubts become apparent is during their first night together when he witnesses Vivian's vulnerability the next morning (wig and then breakfast) and realizes the stark contrast between her life and his own. It’s small, but there…

My Brother-But-One - There isn’t really one. There is a moment when Scott knows it would be better for her to leave, but he wants to keep her in Africa… (more part of the hero’s journey than the plot point.)

Again - just remember things might not be in the order you know them – these are just suggested points on a graph and can move around.

CLIMAX of Act 1 - 1st turning point

Introduce the problem.

This should make everything in your story change direction

Lord of the Rings - Frodo and his companions reach the town of Bree and meet Strider (Aragorn) at The Prancing Pony Inn. This moment marks a significant turning point as Frodo continues to learn about the true danger of the Ring and begins to accept his role as its bearer. Strider saves them. (Note: You can see sometimes the high points are not in the same order as the 3-Act structure we are following - and that is fine too… they all ‘come out in the wash’ as the writer intended, and it still makes sense. )

Shrek - Shrek sets off on his journey to confront Lord Farquaad and reclaim his swamp. This moment marks a significant turning point in the story as Shrek leaves behind his familiar surroundings and embarks on an adventure that will change his life forever. It represents the culmination of the conflict introduced by the invasion of fairy tale creatures into Shrek's swamp and sets the stage for the rest of the film's events.

Pretty Woman - Edward hires Vivian for the week. His decision sets the stage for their unconventional relationship and leads to various conflicts and transformations throughout the story.

Act 2 - Obstacle 1

Lord of the Rings - The crossing of the Midgewater Marshes. These marshes present a physical and psychological challenge to the group, as they are dark, treacherous, and infested with insects. Additionally, the presence of the Black Riders heightens the sense of danger and urgency, as they are relentlessly pursuing Frodo in their quest to retrieve the One Ring. The Midgewater Marshes represent the first significant test of the Fellowship's resolve and unity as they navigate the perils of their quest.

Shrek - Shrek and Donkey arrive at Duloc to confront Lord Farquaad. They discover that Farquaad has already agreed to rescue Princess Fiona from the dragon-guarded tower in exchange for Shrek's swamp. This presents a challenge for Shrek, as he realizes that he must race against time to rescue Fiona before Farquaad marries her and seizes control of his swamp. This obstacle sets the stage for the main conflict of Act 2 and drives Shrek's quest to save Fiona and reclaim his home.

Pretty Woman - the moment of the first obstacle Vivian faces is when she enters a high-end clothing store on Rodeo Drive. Vivian encounters snobbish saleswomen who refuse to serve her and dismiss her based on her appearance and perceived social status. This encounter highlights the classism and discrimination Vivian faces in Edward's world and sets the tone for the challenges she will encounter as she navigates their relationship amidst societal expectations and class divides.

My Brother-But-One - Ashley meets Elliot. They helped put Rodney in jail, but the price paid was high as other volunteers died.

Act 2 - Obstacle 2

Lord of the Rings - the second major obstacle Frodo and his companions encounter on their journey is the attack by the Black Riders at Weathertop. While camping atop Weathertop, the Fellowship is ambushed by the Ringwraiths. This encounter is a pivotal moment in the story as Frodo is wounded by a Morgul blade, a weapon of the Nazgûl. The attack forces the Fellowship to flee, and it highlights the increasing danger and urgency of their quest. It also underscores the relentless pursuit of the Ringwraiths and the vulnerability of Frodo as the Ring-bearer.

Shrek - Lord Farquaad discovers that Shrek has rescued Princess Fiona from the dragon's castle. Upon learning this, Farquaad sends his knights to capture Fiona and bring her back to Duloc so that he can marry her and become king. This obstacle creates a sense of urgency and conflict for Shrek as he realizes that Fiona's safety is at risk and he must race against time to reach her before it's too late. It also sets the stage for the climax of the film as Shrek and his companions embark on a mission to rescue Fiona from Farquaad's clutches.

Pretty Woman - Vivian, despite growing closer to Edward, feels increasingly out of place in his affluent world. As their relationship deepens, Vivian struggles with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, particularly when faced with the expectations and judgments of Edward's social circle. This obstacle is exacerbated when Vivian attends a formal event with Edward, where she encounters snubs and condescension from some of the attendees. Vivian's discomfort and insecurity reach a peak, causing tension between her and Edward and raising doubts about whether their relationship can overcome the barriers of class and social status. Overall, Vivian's struggle to navigate Edward's world and find acceptance among his peers represents a significant obstacle in Act 2 of "Pretty Woman," testing the strength of her relationship with Edward and forcing her to confront her own sense of self-worth.

My Brother-But-One - Jump forward in time. Scott and Ashley are kept apart because of her difficult pregnancy; once again, Scott tries to shield her from Africa’s harshness. They lose the farm.

Act 2 - Midpoint (A big twist) Where everything goes horribly wrong at the end of Act 2…

Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship attempts to cross the Misty Mountains via the Redhorn Pass. They encounter severe weather and are forced to turn back, eventually leading them to the decision to pass through the Mines of Moria. The big twist comes when they discover that the gate to Moria is inscribed with the ominous words, "Speak, friend, and enter." This moment reveals the danger and mystery of their journey, setting the stage for further challenges and revelations within the Mines of Moria. (Also the twist here… when the door won’t work with the words.)

Shrek - the moment when Shrek overhears Princess Fiona and Donkey talking in the forest. Fiona reveals her true form as an ogre at night due to a curse, and Shrek misinterprets her self-loathing comments as referring to him. This leads Shrek to believe that Fiona could never love him as an ogre, causing him to feel rejected and heartbroken. This misunderstanding creates a rift between Shrek and Fiona, setting the stage for the climax of the film.

Pretty Woman - the moment of the midpoint occurs when Vivian attends an opera with Edward. At the opera, Vivian experiences a moment of self-awareness.

Act 2 - Obstacle 3

Lord of the Rings - within the Mines of Moria. After successfully entering Moria, they face the challenge of navigating through the dark and treacherous passages. Their progress is hindered by the discovery of the Balrog, a terrifying and ancient demon, which becomes their immediate threat as they try to escape the depths of Moria. This encounter represents a significant obstacle in their journey and tests their courage and unity as a Fellowship.

Shrek- Shrek encounters is the revelation that Princess Fiona has feelings for someone else, namely, Prince Charming. Shrek discovers this when he overhears Fiona talking to Donkey about her expectations of being rescued by her true love, which she believes to be Prince Charming. This realization presents a significant emotional hurdle for Shrek, as he starts to believe that he doesn't stand a chance with Fiona and that she will never love him. It deepens the conflict and adds complexity to Shrek's journey as he grapples with his feelings for Fiona and his own insecurities.

Pretty Woman - the moment of the third obstacle Vivian faces is when she attends a formal business dinner with Edward. At the dinner, Vivian feels insecure and out of place among Edward's colleagues and associates. She struggles to conform to the expectations of high society and faces judgment from those around her. This moment highlights the challenges Vivian encounters in navigating Edward's affluent world and emphasizes the class divide between them. Vivian must confront her own feelings of inadequacy and insecurity as she tries to fit into Edward's social circle while grappling with the societal barriers that threaten their relationship.

My Brother-But-One - Ashley must hunt and prove she is strong enough to kill and feed the workers so they will follow her without Scott.

Act 2 – Disaster

Lord of the Rings - Within the Mines of Moria. As the Fellowship navigates through the dark passages, they are confronted by the Balrog, an ancient and powerful demon of the shadow. Gandalf, in an attempt to protect the Fellowship, engages in a fierce battle with the Balrog on the Bridge of Khazad-dûm. The disaster strikes when Gandalf sacrifices himself to save the others, falling into the abyss along with the Balrog. This event leaves the Fellowship devastated and without their guide and protector, setting them on a new path of uncertainty and danger. Note: As you can see this doesn't follow exactly on the 3 Act map… sometimes things are moved around - and they still work.

Shrek - After Shrek overhears Fiona talking in the forest and misunderstanding her words, believing she is referring to him with disdain, his disaster moment occurs when he returns to his swamp feeling rejected and hurt. In this moment, he becomes disillusioned with the idea of finding love and happiness, convinced that Fiona could never accept him for who he truly is. This leads him to push Fiona away and reinforce his belief that he is better off alone. Shrek's disaster moment deepens the emotional rift between him and Fiona, setting up a significant obstacle to their potential happiness together.

Act 2 - Crisis

Could have been caused/influenced by the DISASTER moment just before.

Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship face a crisis when they emerge into the sunlight and are confronted with the loss of Gandalf, their guide and protector. They must come to terms with his sacrifice and decide on their next course of action. This crisis revolves around their sense of loss, uncertainty about the future, and the need to carry on their quest without Gandalf's leadership. It marks a pivotal moment in their journey as they must rally together and find the strength to continue their quest to destroy the One Ring. Lady of the Woodland moment.

Shrek - wrapped in the disaster moment.

Pretty Woman - Vivian realizes that Edward's business deal with James Morse could potentially jeopardize their burgeoning relationship. As she overhears Edward discussing the deal with Morse, Vivian understands the implications: Edward is prioritizing business over their connection. This realization forces Vivian to confront her feelings for Edward and the uncertainty of their future together. It presents her with a difficult choice: to stay and risk getting hurt or to leave and protect herself from potential heartbreak. This crisis moment highlights the central conflict of Act 2 and propels Vivian and Edward towards a resolution in Act 3.

My Brother-But-One - They are caught unprepared when Rodney attacks again. Friends die.

End Act 2 - Climax/Solution

The climax and the solution. Everything comes to a head.

The showdown between the protagonist and the antagonist.

Lord of the Rings - near the end of the act, specifically at the breaking of the Fellowship at Amon Hen. Frodo, burdened by the Ring, decides to leave the Fellowship to continue his quest alone, fearing that the Ring's influence is endangering his friends. This decision leads to a dramatic confrontation between Frodo and Boromir, who is tempted by the power of the Ring. The climax reaches its peak when Frodo ultimately chooses to depart in secrecy, leaving behind his companions and setting off on a dangerous journey into Mordor. This moment marks a significant turning point in the narrative and sets the stage for the subsequent acts of the story.

Shrek - During the wedding ceremony between Princess Fiona and Lord Farquaad. Shrek interrupts the wedding ceremony just as Fiona is about to marry Farquaad, professing his love for her. This revelation causes Fiona to realize her true feelings for Shrek. As a result, she rejects Farquaad and reveals her ogre form to everyone present. This moment marks the culmination of the central conflict in the story.

Pretty Woman - Edward rescues Vivian from a potentially dangerous situation with his aggressive and predatory business associate, Philip Stuckey. Stuckey's attempt to assault Vivian represents a culmination of the tension and conflict that has been building throughout the act. Edward's intervention not only saves Vivian from harm but also symbolizes his commitment to her and their evolving relationship. This moment is pivotal as it marks a turning point in their dynamic and sets the stage for the resolution of the central conflict in Act 3. But Vivian leaves anyway…

My Brother-But-One - Rodney snatches Paige, and Ashley switches into mother-bear mode and goes to war, killing him.

Act 3 - CLIMAX & Wrap up

Descending action: What happens to the character after all the excitement is over?

Lord of the Rings -The climax of "The Fellowship of the Ring" occurs at the breaking of the Fellowship at Amon Hen. This pivotal moment comes after Frodo, Samwise, and the rest of the Fellowship have faced numerous trials and challenges on their journey. At Amon Hen, Frodo realizes the burden of the Ring is too great for his companions to bear, and he decides to continue the quest to destroy it alone. This decision leads to a confrontation with Boromir, who becomes tempted by the Ring's power and tries to take it from Frodo. The climax reaches its peak as Frodo, realizing the danger posed by the Ring, flees from Boromir, leaving the Fellowship shattered and scattered. This moment marks a significant turning point in the narrative, setting the stage for the separate journeys and challenges that each member of the Fellowship will face in the subsequent books of "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy. Wrap up - In the movie: Frodo saves Samwise from drowning and they leave together in the small boat. This cements the dedication each has to the other.

 Act 3 - The End

What they went through should have changed them in some way.

Lord of the Rings -The remaining members of the Fellowship—Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli—resolve to rescue Merry and Pippin, who have been captured by orcs. This decision sets the stage for the next part of their journey and forms the basis for the events that unfold in the subsequent books of "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.

Shrek - Shrek and Fiona marry in a lavish ceremony attended by their friends from the fairy-tale world, emphasizing themes of acceptance, love, and happily ever after.

Pretty Woman - Vivian and Edward reconcile their differences and declare their love for each other. Edward asks Vivian to stay with him, and she agrees, symbolizing their commitment to building a future together. She “rescues him right back”. The film concludes with Vivian and Edward in each other’s arms on the fire escape, symbolizing their newfound happiness and the beginning of their journey as a couple. The ending scene portrays a sense of hope and optimism, suggesting that love can conquer all obstacles.

My Brother-But-One - Ashley has her new volunteer program running. Ashley is now beginning to heal, and life is safe again. Zol says goodbye to his Brother But-One, Scott, as he crosses over.

 Remember understanding the structure?

What if there was an easier way?

Easy Exercise – Pixar

Once upon a time, there was __________________.

 • Every day, ____________.

• One day _____________.

• Because of that, ________.

• Because of that, ________.

(Keep adding as needed)

 • Until finally _____________.

Remembering structure is just a way to hang the ideas for your story together….

Exercise - Pixar - The Little Mermaid

• Once upon a time, there was - a mermaid who lived under the sea.

• Every day, she longs to live on land.

• One day, she rescues Prince Eric from his shipwreck.

• Because of that, she wants to be with him.

• Because of that, Ursula, the sea witch, tricks her.

• Because of that, Eric kills Ursula to free Ariel.

• Until finally, her father, King Triton grants her legs so that she can live with Eric on

land and have a happy ever after…

Exercise - Pixar – My Brother-But-One by Tina Clarke

• Once upon a time, there was - Australian Ashley Tweine, who went to Africa as a volunteer - when she met chauvinist Scott Decker as her volunteering boss, there was a gender mix-up, and sparks flew.

• Every day, he wants her gone to protect her from the harsh horrors of Africa, and she wants to prove to him that she is just as capable as any male.

• One day, Ashley witnesses the destruction of an elephant herd by poachers. This changes the dynamic between her and Scott. He sees that she isn’t a ‘first world princess’ and there might be hope for her in Africa. She realised exactly what it was Scott was attempting to shield her from.

• Because of that, Ashley is kidnapped by Rodney.

• Because of that, Ashley meets Elliot. They helped put Rodney in jail, but the price paid was high as other volunteers died.

• Because of that, jump forward in time. Scott and Ashley are kept apart because of her difficult pregnancy. Once again, Scott tries to shield her from Africa’s harshness. They lose the farm.

• Because of that, Scott dies. Ashley must face a new country and a new way of life without him and provide for not only her new twins but also her inherited family of farm workers who have walked through the bush from Zimbabwe to Zambia to be with them.

• Because of that, Ashley must hunt and prove she is strong enough to kill and feed the workers for them to follow her without, Scott.

• Because of that, their new farm is desolate, isolated and run down badly. They are basically restarting.

• Because of that, they are caught unprepared when Rodney attacks again…friends die.

• Because of that, Rodney snatches Paige, and Ashley switches into mother-bear mode and goes to war, killing him.

• Because of that, Ashley finds it was Zol’s bullet that was the kill shot - she is not the one who killed him. They go back to their farm as a united ‘chosen’ family.

• Until finally, Ashley has her new volunteer program running. Ashley is now beginning to heal, and life is safe again. Zol says goodbye to his Brother-But-One, Scott as he crosses over.

Using your own story, see how easily it fits

Once upon a time, there was __________________.

 • Every day, ____________.

• One day _____________.

• Because of that, ________.

• Because of that, ________.

(Keep adding as needed)

 • Until finally _____________.

Remember all those things we jotted down. Now use them in your story. Don't think of them as incidents, or as climaxes or turning points; just get them down as things that happen… and lead to the next one…

Providing satisfying resolutions:

These are tips for your overall story You can check these in edit - or when you are writing… again - more in your tool box….

Addressing Conflict: Ensure that the resolution directly addresses the central conflicts or challenges faced by the characters throughout the story. This could involve overcoming obstacles, reconciling differences, or achieving goals.

Character Growth: Show how the characters have evolved or changed over the course of the story. A satisfying resolution often includes moments of personal growth, where characters learn from their experiences and overcome their flaws or weaknesses. (back to that not leaving a cliffhanger at the end of a book.)

Closure: Tie up loose ends and provide closure for the various plot threads and character arcs. This could involve resolving unanswered questions, fulfilling character motivations, or bringing the story to a satisfying conclusion.

Emotional Satisfaction: Elicit an emotional response from the audience by providing moments of catharsis, joy, relief, or fulfillment. A satisfying resolution should resonate with the audience on an emotional level and leave them feeling satisfied with the outcome.

Staying True to Themes: Ensure that the resolution aligns with the themes and messages of the story. It should reinforce the central themes and leave a lasting impression on the audience about the deeper meaning or moral of the story. (Don't sledgehammer this either - must be subtle!!!!!)

Above all else - Remember what I said in the beginning: This is just another tool in your tool box. This is just one way of doing things - not the bee-all and end all of writing.

Don’t get bogged in technicalities!

 Just write!