When you’re reading a story that you can’t put down, have you ever thought about why is it so engaging? We explore what makes a captivating narrative. These elements are the who, the what, the why, the how, and the where. Therefore, by understanding and including these elements in your writing, you can craft an engaging story that keeps readers invested from start to finish.
Who is the character
The “who” is the main character of your story. The character should be relatable and have a clear goal or internal conflict that drives the plot forward. Therefore, It’s important for the character to be well-developed, with a clear personality, motivations, and flaws.
Example: Mr. Incredible is struggling to balance his desire to be a hero with his responsibilities as a husband and father.
What is the problem
The “what” is the central problem or conflict that the main character faces. This is what drives the plot and keeps readers engaged. The conflict should be clear and well-defined, aw stakes involved for the main character.
Example: Mr. Incredible must overcome his own doubts and insecurities in order to save the world and his family.
Why does it matter
The “why” is the emotional core of the story and should be closely tied to the main character’s internal conflict or goal. It gives the story depth and meaning and should resonate with readers on a deeper level.
Example: Mr. Incredible’s desire to prove that he is still a hero to inspire his family to be their best selves. Thus, touching on universal themes of self-worth, family, and the desire to make a difference.
How things happen
The “how” is the sequence of events that move the plot forward and bring the main character closer to resolving the conflict. This should be well-paced and structured, with a clear progression of events that build towards a satisfying resolution. As a result, the journey should be full of twists and turns.
Example: Mr. Incredible’s journey to defeat the villain and save the day.
Where the story takes place
The “where” is the setting of your story. The setting is integral to the story and helps establish the tone and mood. So, make sure the setting is well-described and believable.
Examples: The Incredibles takes place in a fictional city with a 1950s retro-futuristic aesthetic.
The Wrap Up
By considering these elements and building a strong foundation for your narrative, you can create a compelling and memorable story.
