bog for Dec 24 ANALYZING THE SUBPLOT

Whether you’re reading or writing a novel, understanding the use of subplots will enhance the story. Think of a subplot as a strand of the story that is woven into the main story to support it. Just as we in our lives handle several subplots together—those of our work, families, and friends—the complexity of subplots in a story makes it seem more realistic. Most subplots revolve around a conflict with a character or characters other than the main ones and may be resolved before the climax, at the climax, or just after it to bring the story to a close.

Ask yourself what the author accomplishes with the subplot? For example, how does the subplot make life difficult for the protagonist? How does the subplot reveal the main characters’ values? How do the events in the subplot contribute to changes in the main characters? How does alternating between the plot and subplot contribute to the suspense of the story?

In my first Miriam bat Isaac story, The Deadliest Lie, the main plot is about Miriam recovering the alchemical scrolls stolen from her home. The plot is high stakes because anyone possessing those scrolls, which contain the Alchemical League’s secrets, is subject to execution. The subplot is about her betrothal to Noah but her infatuation with Judah. And so, amid her high-stakes efforts to find the scrolls, she is torn between duty and desire.

In The Deadliest Lie, the main plot and subplot are resolved simultaneously at the shocking climax. Of course, you cannot expect all your own conflicts to be resolved at once. Still, it’s worth seeing how Miriam did it. Just click here.