Narrative Writing: Structure

Introduction: Setting the Scene

The introduction is where you establish the setting, tone and the main characters of your narrative.
Set the stage by constructing your narrative world and introducing your readers to it.
Draw your readers into your narrative by starting with an action, a reflective question, or interesting dialogue.

Rising Action: Building Up Your Story

The rising action should introduce the conflict or the problem that will become the central focus of your narrative.
Increase the tension and suspense in your narrative gradually through these early sections to keep readers engaged.
Introduce minor subplots, if applicable, to enhance the richness of your narrative without losing focus on the main plot.

Climax: The Turning Point

The climax is the crucial turning point in your narrative, where the protagonist faces the conflict at its greatest intensity.
This moment should arrive from the gradual buildup of tension in the rising action.
Make sure your climax is dramatic and emotionally stirring but believable within the context of your story.

Falling Action: Unwinding the Tension

The falling action immediately follows the climax and starts to resolve the main and sub conflicts.
This section should gradually reduce the tension while still maintaining the reader’s interest.
Use this part to start tying up the loose ends of your narrative and characters’ arcs.

Resolution: Wrapping Up Your Story

The resolution effectively concludes your narrative by unravelling all conflicts and providing closure for your characters and plot.
Reflect on the journey of the characters and how they’ve changed or grown due to their experiences.
Craft a satisfying conclusion that doesn’t necessarily have to be happy or ideal, but it should be fitting and wrap up your story in a coherent manner.

In a narrative, keeping a strong and clear structure is crucial to maintaining the flow of your story. Every element from introduction to resolution serves as a piece of the puzzle, fitting together to narrate a clear, engaging, and satisfying story. Remember, a good narrative not only tells a good story but tells it in an engaging and coherent way.