Stop Writing Boring Scenes -- Use this Secret 9-Step Formula

Summary

This video script outlines nine key ingredients for crafting compelling scenes in a book. It emphasizes starting scenes late and ending them early to maintain reader interest. The script also advises using a plot engine in each scene, ensuring scenes multitask by advancing plot, character, and theme, and playing with time to build suspense. It stresses the importance of conflict, character change, essential plot progression, prioritizing actions and dialogue, and asking three critical questions about each scene's necessity and impact.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start scenes late and end them early to keep readers engaged.
• 🚀 Use a plot engine in every scene to propel the narrative forward.
• 🛠 Make scenes multitask by advancing plot, developing characters, and exploring themes.
• 🎬 Play with time within scenes to vary pacing and focus on critical moments.
• ⚔️ Conflict is essential in every scene, even if it's subtle or internal.
• 🌱 Show character change or growth within individual scenes, not just over the entire novel.
• 🔗 Ensure scenes are essential to plot progression and contribute to the overall story.
• 🗣️ Prioritize action and dialogue over thoughts and backstory to keep the story dynamic.
• 📖 Ask three essential questions for every scene: Can it be cut? Does it change something? Does it move the story forward?
• 🔍 Analyze scenes from favorite books or movies to understand their multifaceted contributions to the narrative.

Q & A

What is the first principle of writing a great scene according to the script?

The first principle is to start late and end early. This means starting the scene as close to the action as possible without unnecessary preamble, and ending it right at the climax to create a cliffhanger effect.

Why is it important to start a scene late?

Starting a scene late is important because it eliminates unnecessary lead-up information and background details, diving straight into the action to engage the reader immediately.

How does ending a scene early contribute to the story's pacing?

Ending a scene early contributes to the story's pacing by creating a sense of urgency and suspense. It leaves the reader wanting more and encourages them to continue reading to the next scene.

What is a plot engine and why is it necessary for every scene?

A plot engine is a driving force that propels the reader through the narrative, such as love, mystery, or conflict. It's necessary for every scene to keep the reader engaged and moving forward in the story.

Can you provide an example of a plot engine from the script?

Yes, an example from the script is the hidden identity of John Brown in 'The Good Lord Bird' by James McBride, which creates conflict and interest in an otherwise mundane scene.

Why should scenes multitask in a story?

Scenes should multitask to further the plot, develop characters, and advance themes. This ensures that each scene is contributing to the overall narrative and not just serving a single purpose.

How can playing with time enhance a scene?

Playing with time can enhance a scene by speeding up less interesting parts and slowing down the critical moments. This allows the writer to control the pace and keep the reader engaged.

Why is conflict important in storytelling and scenes?

Conflict is important because it drives the story forward and creates tension. Even subtle conflicts can add depth and interest to a scene, making it more engaging for the reader.

How can a character change within a single scene?

A character can change within a single scene through making decisions, learning something new, or experiencing an event that affects their perspective or behavior.

Why is it essential for a scene to contribute to the overall plot progression?

A scene must contribute to the overall plot progression to maintain narrative coherence and keep the reader engaged. Scenes that don't advance the story may be interesting but can disrupt the flow and cause readers to lose interest.

What should be prioritized in a scene: actions, dialogue, thoughts, or backstory?

Actions and dialogue should be prioritized over thoughts and backstory to keep the scene dynamic and focused on the present moment. However, thoughts and backstory can be used effectively when balanced properly.

What are the three essential questions to ask about every scene?

The three essential questions are: 1) What would happen if I cut this scene? 2) What is changed by the end of my scene? 3) How does this scene move the story forward?