Write Well Series 02: Conflict

Welcome back to the Write Well Series.

This is where you get equipped with the skills you need to minister through writing.

• Are you keen to make your stories engage from start to finish?
• Do you get stuck in the middle of your story?
• Would you like to have a sure way of making your writing more dynamic?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, this topic is for you.

RIGHT BEFORE WRITE

You and I know that as stewards we must be found faithful. We are in the beautiful space of ministry through the creative arts but we don’t ever want the Lord to say to us, “Depart, I never knew you.” Let’s allow the Lord to work continually in us.

“Our hearts must be right before we write.”

CONFLICT & OBSTACLES

This tool will help you make your stories more engaging.

Our previous article in this series looked into the 3-Act story structure: Acts I, II, and III (Previous article).

In Act II (which corresponds roughly to the middle of your story) the main character should experience obstacles to his/her goal. You are not trying to be mean, but after the first main obstacle has been overcome, add another! Conflicts or difficulties are what keep the viewer or reader engaged. How will the main character react to the unforeseen circumstances? Of the options available which will he/she choose? What if there is so much at stake? And what will the protagonist do next?

These challenges move your story forward. Ask the Lord to give you the right ideas to portray the intended underlying truth well.

CALL TO ACTION

• Take a look at the story of The Prodigal Son (Luke 10:11-33) and see what conflicts you can identify.
• Google search conflict in story writing, read articles or watch YouTube videos about it.
• Start adding conflicts and obstacles in the path of your main characters.
• “Right before write”: Keep your heart faithful and true in God’s sight.

Start or continue using conflict in your writing and story-telling and see how your stories engage!

Join us next time for another tool in the Write Well Series. Let’s be equipped to serve.