Hello, fellow writers! Are you feeling stuck with your story, finding it difficult to create an engaging conflict? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! However, conflicts are a vital part of any great story. It is what keeps the readers hooked and engaged. In this blog, we will delve into the world of creating compelling conflict, with a bunch of tips and tricks to help you push through the pain! 💪

Why Conflict is Important 🤔

Before diving into the world of conflict writing, let’s understand why it’s important. Conflict drives the story, gives it direction, and creates an emotional connection with readers. It’s the opposing forces that spark tension and make the readers invested in the characters’ journey. Conflict also helps shape the characters, their motivations, and makes them more relatable. In short, conflict is the spice that makes any story exciting! 🔥

A cartoon chef holding a spice jar with a sign "Conflict" written on it 🔪

Types of Conflict 💔

Now that we understand why conflict is essential, let’s go over the different types of conflict. Broadly speaking, there are four types of conflict:

1. Man vs. Man 👬

This conflict is personal and occurs between two characters. It’s often intense and emotional and has the potential to impact both the characters involved and those around them.

A cartoon of two figures shoving each other with an angry expression

2. Man vs. Nature 🌪️

As the name suggests, this conflict revolves around the natural elements, such as weather conditions, animals, or other hostile environments. The character’s fight for survival in these conditions can create intense and captivating tension.

A cartoon of a person fighting off an enormous wave

3. Man vs. Society 🤝

This is a broader conflict that entails societal norms, traditions, beliefs, and expectations. It’s generally an external conflict, and the character often has to fight against a larger group or system.

A cartoon of a character holding a flag, standing in front of a crowd, and protesting

4. Man vs. Self 🧠

This conflict lies within the character, often as a result of emotional or psychological struggles. It can create a deep sense of empathy and emotional connection with readers.

A cartoon of a person facing their reflection, with a worried expression

Elements of Compelling Conflict 💥

Apart from knowing the types of conflict, creating a compelling and exciting conflict requires some essential elements:

1. High Stakes 🎲

For a conflict to be gripping, the stakes must be high. The consequence of winning or losing this conflict must have a significant impact on the character’s life.

A cartoon of a character standing at the edge of a cliff with a look of fear

2. Clear Objective 🎯

The conflict must have a clear objective. The character must have a purpose and goal to achieve, and the conflict must revolve around that objective.

A cartoon character holding a sign with an arrow pointing in a direction

3. Rising Tension ⚡

The tension must increase gradually throughout the plot, creating an exhilarating sense of anticipation and dread. This tension should keep the readers invested in the story.

A graph charting a character's tension throughout the plot

4. Growth of Characters 🌱

Conflict is an excellent opportunity to show the growth and developing arc of a character. Use the conflict to shape the character, their motivations, and their decisions.

A cartoon of a character sitting alone, lost in thought, with a speech bubble saying "What have I learned?"🤔

Tips to Write Compelling Conflict 🔥

Now that we have a good understanding of the elements of compelling conflict, here are a few tips to help you write one:

1. Make it Personal 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

Personal conflicts are more engaging and relatable. Readers can empathize with the characters and understand their motivations and decisions.

A cartoon character holding a broken heart with a pained expression

2. Show Don’t Tell 🎭

Instead of just telling the conflict, show it through actions and emotions. Allow the readers to experience the tension and emotional weight of the conflict.

A cartoon character with their arms crossed, standing in front of a character with a guilty expression

3. Subvert Expectations 🔄

Readers can predict many plots, which can lead to a dull conflict. Subverting the expectations can make the conflict more unique and exciting.

A cartoon of a seed sprouting from brickwork

4. Include a Twist 🌀

A well-timed plot twist can create an immense impact on the story and the readers. It can elevate the conflict, creating a more satisfying payoff.

A cartoon character holding a sign with a twist in it

Conclusion 📝

Creating compelling conflict requires a deep understanding of the elements and a dash of creativity. Conflict is what drives a story forward, creates an emotional connection with readers and makes the characters relatable. Incorporating the tips mentioned above can result in a thrilling and engaging conflict that keeps the readers hooked till the end.

A picture of a happy reader sitting on a pile of books, with a speech bubble saying "What a thrilling story!"