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Scene Variations

In my opinion, using all six components in every scene is a little formulaic. Dropping one (or more) or the components can give an entirely different feel to a scene. So can splitting a scene into two. Consider the following scene variations. In addition, the proportion of external action to internal reaction allows the writer to control the pacing.

Examples

Standard Scene

A “standard” Scene has all six components and constitutes a complete “mini-story.” This scene might take place over a few paragraphs or even over a few chapters.

Here, we use a dinkus (three asterisks) to denote the beginning and end of a scene.

* * *
goal icon Goal
goal icon Conflict
goal icon Disaster
goal icon Reaction
goal icon Dilemma
goal icon Decision
* * *

Start with Action

Sometimes a goal doesn’t need to be explicitly stated and we can begin the scene in the middle of the action. Perhaps a decision was mentioned in the previous scene, so the reader already knows this scene’s goal.

Sometimes the goal is obvious. Consider a scene beginning with a firefighter responding to an alarm (we know what the firefighter is going to try to do).

* * *
goal icon Conflict
goal icon Disaster
goal icon Reaction
goal icon Dilemma
goal icon Decision
* * *

Disaster Cliffhanger

Consider a scene that ends right after the disaster. Our character is in trouble and the reader is eager to find out what happens to them. This type of cliffhanger is often used in TV shows just before a commercial break. 

Sometimes, a character might have a lengthy reaction full of introspection, emotions and flashbacks. Such inner reaction scenes can easily stand on their own, and offer an opportunity for deeper character development.

* * *
goal icon Goal
goal icon Conflict
goal icon Disaster
* * *
goal icon Reaction
goal icon Dilemma
goal icon Decision
* * *

Short Reactions

Sometimes a character has a very short reaction–one that doesn’t need a standalone scene. Consider appending the inner reaction components to the next scene. Perhaps the character makes a quick, reactive decision and sets off on a new goal right away.

Once the decision has been made, it’s not necessary to explicitly describe the goal.

* * *
goal icon Goal
goal icon Conflict
goal icon Disaster
* * *
goal icon Reaction
goal icon Dilemma
goal icon Decision
goal icon Goal
goal icon Conflict
goal icon Disaster

Dilemma Cliffhanger

Sometimes the climax of the scene is a pivotal decision. Ending the scene before the character decides can generate suspense and encourages the reader to continue reading.

In the following scene, it’s not necessary to explicitly state both the decision and the goal.

* * *
goal icon Goal
goal icon Conflict
goal icon Disaster
goal icon Reaction
goal icon Dilemma
* * *
goal icon Decision
goal icon Goal
goal icon Conflict
goal icon Disaster

Happy Ending

The conflict has been overcome and the goal has been attained. The story has wrapped up, and there’s no follow up needed.

* * *
goal icon Goal
goal icon Conflict
goal icon Victory
goal icon Reaction
* * *
RobFitzel.com

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