Narrative Writing: Structure

Narrative writing is a form of storytelling that involves creativity as well as technical writing skills.
A strong narrative structure is essential for drafting a successful story. It provides the framework or plot around which the story is built.
Useful narrative structures include the classical ‘Three-Act’ structure: setup, confrontation and resolution. This structure helps you create a comprehensive and suspense-filled narrative.
The ‘Setup’ or introduction is the beginning of the narrative where characters, settings and initial situations are established. This part of the story should create interest and pose a certain issue or question that keeps the reader engaged.
The ‘Confrontation’ or middle part comprises the main events, conflicts or struggles that the characters go through. This part of your story should involve rising action leading up to the climax or turning point.
The ‘Resolution’ usually brings the story to an end. It resolves the conflicts and brings the narrative to a close, providing a satisfactory conclusion to the reader.
Some narratives may use a non-linear structure, where events are not presented in chronological order. This can be effective if handled properly, but be aware it may be confusing to the reader if not clearly signposted.
The choice of narrative structure can greatly influence the tone and message of the story.
Dialogue can be a helpful tool for advancing the plot and introducing character development within the narrative structure.
Remember that effective narrative writing includes not just a well-structured plot, but also carefully designed characters, engaging dialogue, and descriptive language that appeals to the senses to create vivid mental images.
Using a plan or outline can help to ensure a clear and coherent structure in your narrative writing.
Revising and editing are key aspects of perfecting your narrative structure. Read it with critical eyes, or preferably have someone else review it, to identify anything that is unclear or which does not flow logically.
Lastly, practice perfects the craft. Keep writing more narratives to improve your understanding of their effective structure and how to create suspense, tension and resolution.