How to Write the Main Conflict of the Story — The Engine of a Narrative

Summary

The video explores the essential role of conflict in storytelling, emphasizing that every story is driven by the interaction of opposing forces. It categorizes conflict into three types: inner conflict, personal conflict, and extrapersonal conflict. Inner conflict arises from a character's internal struggles, while personal conflict involves obstacles created by other characters, such as antagonists or relationship dynamics. Extrapersonal conflict includes challenges from external sources, like nature or societal issues. By examining various films, the video illustrates how these conflicts enrich narratives and engage audiences, ultimately encouraging writers to embrace conflict in their storytelling.

Takeaways

• 😀 Conflict is the essence of storytelling, serving as the backbone of every narrative.
• 🧠 Inner conflict arises when characters face internal struggles, affecting their goals and decisions.
• 👥 Personal conflict involves obstacles created by other characters, such as antagonists or romantic interests.
• 🌍 Extrapersonal conflict refers to challenges from external forces, including nature or societal issues.
• 📖 Every story must include some form of conflict to drive the narrative forward.
• 🎭 Effective storytelling often features a blend of inner, personal, and extrapersonal conflicts.
• 🧩 Complex characters are essential for inner conflict, showcasing multifaceted personalities with contradictions.
• 💔 Moral dilemmas serve as compelling examples of inner conflict, deeply affecting characters' choices.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family dynamics frequently create personal conflict, highlighting differing views and relationships.
• 🎬 Films like 'Hereditary' successfully combine various conflict types to enhance emotional depth and thematic complexity.

Q & A

What is the central theme of the video script?

The central theme of the video script is the importance of conflict in storytelling, asserting that every story requires conflict to engage the audience and drive the narrative.

According to Christopher Vogler, what role does conflict play in storytelling?

Christopher Vogler states that conflict is the soul of storytelling, acting as the spark that ignites the narrative fire and is essential for developing a compelling story.

What are the three main types of conflict discussed in the script?

The three main types of conflict discussed are inner conflict, personal conflict, and extrapersonal conflict.

Can you explain what inner conflict entails?

Inner conflict refers to a character grappling with issues within themselves, such as moral dilemmas or personal identity challenges, which serve as obstacles to achieving their goals.

How does the script illustrate the concept of personal conflict?

Personal conflict is illustrated through interactions between characters, especially when their goals contradict each other. Examples include romantic tensions and rivalries, as seen in films like 'Licorice Pizza' and 'Star Wars'.

What is extrapersonal conflict, and how does it manifest in stories?

Extrapersonal conflict arises from external forces beyond the characters, such as nature or societal issues. It presents challenges that characters must face, like the wilderness in 'Into the Wild' or racism in 'To Kill a Mockingbird'.

What role does inner conflict play in character-driven stories?

Inner conflict is crucial in character-driven stories as it allows filmmakers to explore complex characters' emotional and psychological struggles, enhancing character development and narrative depth.

How does the script suggest filmmakers can use all three types of conflict?

The script suggests that filmmakers can use all three types of conflict simultaneously to create richer narratives, as demonstrated in the film 'Hereditary', which features intense inner conflict, personal family tensions, and supernatural elements.

What is the significance of moral dilemmas in storytelling?

Moral dilemmas are significant because they challenge characters' values and decisions, often leading to deeper character exploration and adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

Why is conflict essential to engaging audiences in a story?

Conflict is essential because it reflects the challenges and obstacles that individuals face in real life, creating tension and emotional investment for the audience, which ultimately drives the narrative from beginning to end.