S16:E12: How to Choose Story Settings: The 4 Basic Types of Setting

Summary

In this episode of 'Helping Writers Become Authors,' KM Weiland explores how to choose the right story settings to enhance character dynamics and deepen plot development. She discusses four key types of settings—meeting grounds, shared spaces, shared danger, and parting of the ways—and how each contributes to creating meaningful interactions between characters. Weiland emphasizes that the most effective settings are those that foster character development and drive the plot forward, making it essential to go beyond flashy settings and focus on those that truly serve the narrative's core dynamics.

Takeaways

• 😀 Settings should serve more than as a backdrop; they need to facilitate meaningful character interactions and plot development.
• 😀 The core metric for choosing story settings is how they affect the proximity and interaction of key characters.
• 😀 Flashy or unique settings won't captivate readers unless they enhance character dynamics and the plot's emotional stakes.
• 😀 Authors should ask how a setting will facilitate character interactions and whether it promotes essential dynamics, like dialogue and conflict.
• 😀 The primary role of settings is to create opportunities for characters to come together, especially when developing their relationships.
• 😀 There are four key types of settings: meeting grounds, shared spaces, shared danger, and parting of the ways.
• 😀 Meeting grounds are settings that force characters to interact repeatedly, deepening their relationship over time (e.g., a diner or school).
• 😀 Shared spaces allow characters to be together for long periods, fostering either positive or negative relationship dynamics.
• 😀 Shared danger settings involve characters facing external threats together, adding intensity and raising stakes for interpersonal conflict.
• 😀 Parting of the ways settings separate characters, which can either drive emotional depth or disrupt the central relationships if not handled carefully.
• 😀 The success of a setting depends on how well it enhances the plot's relationships, emotional stakes, and character growth.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of choosing the right story setting?

The main purpose of choosing the right story setting is to create meaningful connections between characters, facilitate dynamic interactions, and support the development of the plot, ensuring the setting amplifies the characters' actions and relationships.

How can settings affect character dynamics in a story?

Settings can significantly affect character dynamics by either bringing characters together or separating them, shaping the interpersonal conflict, dialogue, and overall chemistry between characters, which are essential for plot development.

What role do meeting ground settings play in a story?

Meeting ground settings are locations that consistently bring characters together, either for the first time or repeatedly, to evolve their relationships. These settings, such as workplaces or schools, are designed to facilitate interactions and conflict, fostering character development.

Can a flashy or unique setting be enough to engage readers?

No, a flashy or unique setting alone is not enough to engage readers. While such settings can draw attention, they only matter if they facilitate character development, relational conflict, and plot progression, which are key to keeping readers invested.

What are shared space settings and how do they contribute to a story?

Shared space settings are locations where characters are expected to be together, such as homes or refugee shelters. These spaces allow for deeper character development and relationship building, often offering opportunities for characters to bond or confront interpersonal conflicts.

How do settings of shared danger enhance a story?

Settings of shared danger introduce external threats or conflicts that require characters to confront dangers together, creating high stakes. Whether physical or emotional, these settings heighten tension and force characters to navigate their relationships under stress.

What is the impact of parting of the ways settings on a story?

Parting of the ways settings, which separate characters, can create powerful emotional scenes and heighten the tension in a story. However, if not carefully executed, they risk weakening the narrative by eliminating key relationship dynamics and causing unnecessary plot delays.

How can the setting in 'Carnival Row' impact character dynamics?

In 'Carnival Row', the primary setting, the dzian slum, initially brings characters together, fostering conflict and developing their relationships. However, in season 2, separating the main characters compromises their dynamic, reducing the emotional stakes and making the plot less engaging.

What should writers consider when choosing settings for their stories?

Writers should consider how settings will affect character proximity and dynamics. Choosing settings that foster important character interactions, create tension, or enhance plot progression is crucial for maintaining reader engagement and advancing the narrative.

Why is logistics an important metric in choosing a story setting?

Logistics is important because it ensures characters are placed in settings where they can interact with other important characters, promoting relational conflict, dialogue, and plot development. If characters are isolated in separate settings, it can kill the story's chemistry and entertainment value.