The Tangled Tale: The Magic of Plot Devices

By Johann Franz Radax

Master the Art of Captivating Plots

Whether you're a novelist, screenwriter or storyteller, mastering plot is essential for crafting narratives that thrill audiences from start to finish. With these techniques, readers will become fully immersed in your characters' exciting journeys.

This thorough workbook provides a comprehensive toolkit for harnessing the magic of plot devices like cliffhangers, plot twists, foreshadowing, and character flaws, among many others. Inspiring examples from beloved works of literature, theater, film and television will illustrate these techniques in action.

Hands-on exercises allow you to analyze classics or apply what you've learned to your own work in progress. Interactive prompts help develop your ability to craft multidimensional characters, build suspense, and choreograph satisfying resolutions.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Pluma y Tintero
• Release date: Jan 23, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224472239

Johann Franz Radax

Johann Franz Radax nació en 1957 en Wiener Neustadt, Austria Baja. Después del estudio de la medicina veterinaria en Viena trabajó como profesor asistente en el Instituto de Nutrición de esta universidad y a continuación se dedicó durante diez años a la práctica de animales grandes en el sur de Austria Baja. En aquel tiempo escribió su tesis doctoral y se graduó de «Dr. Med. Vet.» Después de un interludio de cuatro años en la industria farmacéutica emigró a América del Sur, a Ecuador. Allá estudió medicina y bioética. Durante diez años trabajó como profesor de Anatomía e instructor de Medicina Comunitaria en una universidad ecuatoriana. En todo ese tiempo además fungió como docente de cursos de Anatomía y Fisiología y como instructor de un programa de Salud Pública de una universidad estadounidense que mandaba a estudiantes voluntarios a Ecuador para asistir a cursos y prácticas de un semestre de extensión. Aparte del trabajo docente, el doctor Radax se dedicaba y se sigue dedicando a la investigación científica. En la actualidad dedica su tiempo a la escritura de libros de varias índoles: desde la no ficción hasta las novelas de fantasía. Luego de vivir más de un cuarto de siglo en el Ecuador, dispone de profundos conocimientos tanto del país como de sus habitantes en toda su diversidad, de la profesión médica y de la complejidad de la situación política.

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Spoiler Alert

Please be advised that the following text contains potential spoilers that may reveal crucial details about the plot, twists, or surprises within the book, play, film or TV series being discussed. While every effort has been made to avoid significant reveals, it has been impossible in every case, so that certain information may unintentionally detract from your enjoyment if you haven’t experienced the story yet. We have also taken care to select works of art that are not excessively new. The most recent novel included is from 2012, the newest films are from 2017, and the most recent play is from 1978. Only in the case of TV series are there a few ongoing cases. Therefore, when it comes to books, plays, and films, there is a high likelihood that you have already read or seen the work.

Before proceeding to read a discussion of a book, play, film or TV series, we strongly encourage individuals to enjoy the respective piece of art. By immersing yourself in the original work, you can fully appreciate its narrative, twists, and surprises without any prior knowledge. Engaging with the story firsthand enhances the overall experience and allows you to form your own interpretations and opinions. Once you have experienced the work, you are welcome to return to this discussion to explore and participate in a more informed manner.

Preface

Dear Reader,

I’m writing about my journey with storytelling and plot devices. The course I created, The Tangled Tale: The Magic of Plot Devices, taught me a lot about how to use techniques like plot twists, foreshadowing and parallel plotlines to engage readers.

I’m really interested in how stories work because I love telling them. I believe stories can change people. Plot devices are important because they shape the story. Stories are important because they shape people. I wanted to learn more by looking at how famous authors from the present days and from long ago used the instruments called plot devices to fashion their masterpieces.

Looking at different works helped me see how these devices pull readers into the world an author creates. As a student of plot devices, I’m proud to share this class. It started as my own learning, but could become a guide for other writers and creators. Since it helped me tell stories better, I wanted others to benefit too.

Nowadays it’s easy to find information about plot devices online, but it’s scattered. This class brings everything together in one single place. Whether you’re a new writer or a pro looking to improve, it’s here to help unlock your storytelling skills.

Storytelling can do so much. I hope this guide inspires you, like learning about plot devices inspired me. Use these pages to fuel your creativity. Together, through mastering plot devices, we can bring our stories to life. Think of this class as a roadmap for both you and me on our journey to become better storytellers.

Thank you,

Johann Radax

January 2024

Introduction

"The secret of getting ahead is getting started.

The secret of getting started is

breaking your complex overwhelming tasks

into small manageable tasks,

and starting on the first one."

Mark Twain

In this book, I will present to you thirty examples of what we call plot devices.

So, what are they after all?

Plot devices are narrative elements or literary tools intentionally employed by writers and creators to advance the storyline, develop characters, or shape the overall structure of a work. These devices serve as integral components that contribute to the coherence, intrigue, and progression of the narrative. To be considered as plot devices, elements should meet the following criteria:

1. Strategic purpose: Plot devices are deliberately inserted into the narrative to fulfill a specific purpose, such as resolving a conflict, introducing a twist, or enhancing character development.

2. Influence on plot: They significantly affect the progression of the plot, influencing key events, character relationships, or thematic elements within the story.

3. Artful integration: Plot devices are skillfully integrated into the narrative, ensuring a smooth and natural flow that prevents any abrupt or forced introductions that could disrupt the overall story..

4. Contribution to engagement: Effective plot devices captivate the audience’s attention, heightening suspense, curiosity, or emotional investment, thus ensuring continued interest in the unfolding events.

5. Diversity of forms: Plot devices can take various forms, including, but not limited to symbols, motifs, foreshadowing, twists, and MacGuffins. Their diversity allows writers to employ a range of tools tailored to the specific needs of their narrative.

6. Enhancement of theme: They contribute to the exploration and reinforcement of the story’s central themes, offering a layer of complexity and nuance that enriches the overall storytelling experience.

In essence, plot devices are intentional and strategic narrative elements that serve as dynamic building blocks, influencing the direction and impact of the story while contributing to its depth and resonance.

These tools play a fundamental role in the development of any work, whether in film, theater, literature, or even in video games. The variety of these tools and their strategic use add depth and complexity to the story, creating an immersive and meaningful experience for both the reader and the viewer.

Indeed, the realm of plot devices is virtually boundless. So, why did I settle on thirty? Well, to put it shortly, the abundance is staggering, and I had to narrow it down. I picked the thirty I think are the most crucial – the ones you’ll run into the most (hopefully in agreement with what Mark Twain stated above). My understanding is that, once we grasp these thirty, we can progressively expand our reach, broaden our grasp, and deepen into more. Think of it as laying down a solid foundation. Over time, these plot devices will become second nature to us, stored in our minds, ready to spark ideas and add some technical finesse to enrich our storytelling.

I fondly remember my Latin teacher from many years ago. When he talked about Roman literature, he compared Roman love stories to how cowboys’ legs move. He said they start close together and then move apart, only to come back together in the end. As 15-year-olds, we thought this was quite funny. We didn’t realize then that he was referring to plot structures used in ancient works from over 2,000 years ago.

One example is Petronius Arbiter’s Satyricon, written during the rule of emperor Nero. In this story, the adventures of Encolpius and Giton are part of a larger narrative called Trimalchio’s Dinner. Encolpius is a young scholar, and Giton is his handsome companion and former slave. They were also lovers. The story follows their misadventures as they experience different events in the ancient Roman world. They go through a series of escapades as their relationship unfolds within the broader context of the dinner party.

The story follows Encolpius and Giton as they meet different unique characters and spend time enjoying pleasures. They interact with eccentric people and indulge in all kinds of pleasures. They find themselves entangled in a love triangle with the beautiful and promiscuous Ascyltus, leading to conflicts and tensions among the trio.

Their journey takes them through a sequence of episodic happenstances, including run-ins with charlatans, a shipwreck, and a visit to a lavish banquet hosted by the wealthy Trimalchio. Amidst their escapades, Encolpius and Giton grapple with themes of desire, lust, social status, and the excesses of Roman society.

In essence, it is a love story. Indeed, Encolpius and Giton experience periods of separation within the narrative, but they are eventually reunited. Throughout their misadventures, they endure moments of detachment due to conflicts, misunderstandings, or chance encounters with other characters.

Their separation injects tension and emotional depth into the story as Encolpius and Giton yearn for each other’s presence and strive to reunite. The narrative explores their individual journeys, highlighting the challenges they face and the personal growth they undergo while apart.

However, the bond between Encolpius and Giton ultimately proves resilient, and they manage to find each other again, often through unexpected twists of fate or the assistance of other characters. Their reunion serves as a moment of solace and elation, restoring their close relationship and enabling the narrative to progress with their shared adventures.

Now the question arises: Did this ancient work, preserved only in fragments, employ what we, in our (post)modern world, refer to as plot devices? Let us dig deeper and explore!

Here are some instances of the plot devices contained in our book listed in Petronius’ Satyricon:

MacGuffin and Object-Centric Resources: The Cena Trimalchionis, or Trimalchio’s Dinner, can be seen as a MacGuffin, as it serves as a central event that drives the narrative and influences the actions of the characters.

Red Herrings and Narrative Diversions: Throughout the story, there are various episodes and encounters that divert the attention of Encolpius and Giton from their main goals, creating red herrings and adding to the episodic nature of the narrative.

Flashbacks and Flash-forwards: Petronius employs flashback techniques to provide background information about the characters and their past experiences, adding depth to their motivations and relationships.

Unreliable Narrator: Encolpius, as the narrator of the story, can be seen as an unreliable narrator, as his perspective and personal biases shape the events and interpretations presented to the reader.

Plot Twists: The story contains several unexpected plot twists, such as the shipwreck and the surprising revelations that disrupt the characters’ expectations and challenge the narrative flow.

Parallel Plotlines: The story features parallel plotlines as Encolpius and Giton encounter other characters who have their own stories and conflicts, providing contrasting perspectives and enriching the overall narrative.

Nonlinear Narratives: The discontinuous and episodic nature of the story, with its various digressions and diversions, can be seen as an example of a nonlinear narrative structure.

Symbolism/Allegory: Various elements and events in the story can be interpreted symbolically, reflecting deeper meanings and societal critiques, such as the decadent banquet symbolizing Roman excess and moral corruption.

Rising Action: The narrative builds tension and momentum as Encolpius and Giton face escalating challenges and conflicts throughout their journey.

Conflict: The story is replete with conflicts, both internal and external, as the characters traverse their desires, societal norms, and the obstacles they encounter.

And these are just a few examples of the plot devices found in Petronius’ Satyricon! The story uses many different narrative styles and literary tools. These all come together to form an engaging and multi-layered reading experience. A rich variety of techniques create a captivating story with many depths.

It is safe to say that the structures of storytelling and plot devices are deeply ingrained within us. They are a reflection of our thought patterns. That is why it is vital for us to consciously acknowledge these configurations and utilize them effectively, in order to resonate with our readers or viewers on a profound level.

Exploring the Connection of Plot Devices with Narrative Structure

Tropes:

In the complex way the narrative is constructed, plot devices often have their roots in tropes. Tropes are repeating elements or patterns in storytelling that show common concepts or situations. For example, the trope of the chosen hero is something that can hint at a main character’s future. In this story, plot devices and tropes work together. They influence both the storyline and how the characters are formed.

It’s vital to distinguish tropes from stereotypes and clichés. Tropes serve as familiar narrative elements, providing a shared framework that allows audiences to quickly grasp certain aspects of the story. In contrast, stereotypes simplify and generalize portrayals, while clichés, well, they’ve been overused to the point of predictability. We must use care when including stereotypes and clichés. They can limit creativity and realness in the story.

Beats (Key Moments):

Beats are the heartbeat (no pun intended!) of a story, marking significant changes in plot or character development. These pivotal moments are crafted and accentuated using plot devices. For instance, a cliffhanger closing a chapter becomes a suspenseful beat, sparking curiosity and anticipation for what lies ahead.

But here’s the catch! The definition of beats isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some view them as individual moments, like a critical dialogue or a revelation. Others see beats as larger components encompassing multiple events. In writing, some authors use beats as specific points to highlight important events, while others take a holistic approach, considering them integral parts of chapters or scenes.

Scenes:

Scenes are narrative microcosms within a story, complete with their own introduction, development, and resolution. The influence of plot devices is palpable in the creation of these scenes—whether through flashbacks revealing crucial information or the introduction of plot twists that shake things up at the scene’s culmination, to just give a couple of examples.

While tropes, beats, and scenes each possess their distinct identity, they intertwine harmoniously in constructing and developing the narrative. Together, they craft a cohesive and immersive experience for both readers and viewers.

The Role of Plot Devices in Narrative Construction

Plot devices are pivotal in shaping a story. Let’s explore some of their crucial functions!

1. Intrigue: Some devices, like cliffhangers and foreshadowing, have a special way of keeping the audience interested. They constantly leave us feeling nosy and wanting to find out what happens next. These kinds of devices regularly put us in a state of anticipation and feeding our curiosity to unravel what is coming later.

2. Character Development: Flashbacks or Chekhov’s gun serve as revealing tools for characters. They offer a glimpse into their past, motivations, and even their profound dilemmas, breathing life into their personas.

3. Tension: Plot twists or red herrings, they truly know how to keep us on the edge of our seats. Surprising us with unexpected revelations, they quicken our heartbeats and add a thrilling layer to the narrative.

4. Story Drivers: MacGuffins, intriguing subplots, or parallel storylines take us on unforeseen journeys. They act as motivating forces for characters, steering the story in directions we never fathomed.

5. Closure: Occasionally, the deus ex machina appears, delivering an unexpected resolution. However, a word of caution! Their use requires careful consideration; a hasty deployment might simplify everything, earning the label of lazy storytelling. Yet, when strategically placed, they yield highly satisfying results.

These narrative resources not only infuse excitement and mystery, but also sculpt the story in a manner that deepens our engagement.

Structure of the book

Now, let me outline the structure of this book. I have decided to use three parts:

In the initial part, by far the largest of the three, you’ll explore numbered chapters, gaining insights into thirty plot devices. The objective is to establish a foundational understanding, thereby facilitating the enhancement of your writing skills.

Each numbered chapter adheres to a consistent structure:

Introduction

Crafting the Device

Benefits of Implementation

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid

Character Archetypes and Their Potential

Applying the Device across Genres

Exercises for Practice

Examples of Mastery

Take-Home Messages

Works Referenced

This layout ensures a swift and straightforward orientation.

The section Works Referenced encompasses all books, plays, movies, or TV series that are substantially explored in one certain aspect in the chapter, not those merely mentioned. You might be curious about the inclusion of movies and television series in a book for writers. Firstly, these art forms share common structures, and writers can glean invaluable insights from film directors. Secondly, when delving into examples, it is undeniably more convenient to dedicate two hours to watch a feature film than to invest weeks or months of one’s free time in reading a hefty book. It’s simply a matter of practicality.

Another practical consideration involves the frequent analysis of the same movie or book. Books like The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christy, or Films like Inception by Christopher Nolan, The Sixth Sense by M. Night Shyamalan, or Pulp Fiction by Quentin Tarantino tend to be overused examples, I am sorely aware of this. However, while I could have chosen many other books or films to explore practically any of the plot devices discussed here, I decided to narrow down the diversity of selection. Wouldn’t it be unrealistic to expect readers to watch hundreds of movies in order to follow the concepts presented in this book?

The arrangement of chapters in this sequence is deliberate. Plot devices range from the straightforward, such as the MacGuffin, to more complex compositions like in medias res or nonlinear narratives. The order mirrors their complexity in some ways.

Advancing to the subsequent part, we will explore additional tools to refine your techniques and elevate your writing prowess. Examining real-life examples will ensure the practical application of acquired knowledge. The culmination of this part involves a final project, wherein you will implement what you’ve learned (and me, too, of course), supported by a genuine example.

The concluding part, the appendices, serves as a valuable resource for writing enthusiasts. Here, you will encounter the thirty devices across various literary works, broadening your comprehension. The appendices also include an index of the discussed works, an array of inspirational ideas, and a list of symbols to embellish your creations.

Throughout this book, I place a strong emphasis on practical examples, acknowledging that theory alone most certainly does not fire up enthusiasm. Drawing from personal experience, even during my brief stint as a professional programmer, I found code snippets to be instrumental for learning and creativity. Initially copying them was just a starting point; soon, I was adapting and expanding them to suit my requirements. They emerged as a transformative element in my creative process (programming is creative after all!). The parallels with the art of writing are evident.

Allow me to clarify something: When I write about your understanding, your skills, and so on, I could just as easily say our understanding, our skills. That’s because I see myself as a part of this learning journey as well. I am also a student, learning and growing on the path to mastery, although that destination is still far away. It’s important to remember that this book was originally created as a course to help me personally progress and learn more.

I invite you to join me on this literary adventure, where we will explore practical concepts and real-life illustrations. Together, we will discover the magic within these tools that have the potential to elevate not only your writing, but mine as well, guiding us to achieve remarkable results.

1. MacGuffin and Object-Centric Resources

"What everyone is looking for,

but doesn’t really matter."

1. Introduction

MACGUFFIN IS A term coined by the renowned filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock. This term has become a fundamental element in the realm of narrative construction.

To understand the origin of the MacGuffin, we must go back to the early days of cinema and the brilliant mind of Alfred Hitchcock. This master of suspense used the MacGuffin in many of his films, making it a key resource in his narrative style. Although we do not know the exact origin of the term for certain, it is said to have emerged from a conversation between Hitchcock and the screenwriter Angus MacPhail. According to the filmmaker, the name comes from an old Scottish joke in which a MacGuffin was an object of no importance or relevance. Recognizing the narrative potential of this concept, Hitchcock adopted it as a tool to captivate the audience’s attention and generate intrigue.

Hitchcock himself used to joke about the MacGuffin, saying that it was what everyone is looking for, but doesn’t really matter. In other words, the MacGuffin is a pretext that drives the plot and keeps viewers engaged, even though its true significance may be irrelevant. In a lecture at Columbia University in 1939, Hitchcock explained the term as follows: We have a name in the studio, and we call it the MacGuffin. It is the mechanical element that usually appears in any story. In thief stories, it is almost always the necklace, and in spy stories, it is almost always the papers.

Definition

A MacGuffin is a plot device commonly used in narratives, especially in films and literature, to drive the story forward. It is an object, goal, or event that serves as a motivating factor for the characters and advances the plot, but its specific nature is often unimportant, vague, or irrelevant to the overall narrative.

In essence, a MacGuffin is a narrative catalyst that propels the characters into action, creating conflict or tension, but its actual nature is secondary to its function in driving the plot. It can take various forms, such as a valuable item, a secret, a mission, or any other plot element that characters seek or are affected by throughout the story. The MacGuffin’s primary purpose is to set the events of the narrative in motion rather than to be a central focus in itself.

Its origins can be traced back to ancient myths and legends, where precious artifacts or elusive treasures often served as catalysts for epic quests. In this chapter, we will explore the significance of the MacGuffin and its role as an object-centric resource in storytelling.

2. Crafting the Device

The initial introduction of the MacGuffin should establish its importance and relevance to the characters and their motivations. You can achieve this through exposition, dialogue, or visual cues that convey its allure or significance. Throughout the course of the story, the MacGuffin should be carefully integrated into the plot, serving as a catalyst for conflicts, alliances, and character development. Its influence should permeate the narrative, guiding the characters’ choices and actions, while also maintaining an element of intrigue and anticipation.

Practical Example from Literature

Hammett, Dashiell: The Maltese Falcon (1930); Noir Novel: In The Maltese Falcon, the MacGuffin is a statuette of a falcon. The novel revolves around the quest to obtain this mysterious and valuable object. The Maltese Falcon is introduced as a priceless artifact with a rich history, capturing the attention of the characters and setting the stage for the unfolding plot.

As the story unfolds, the statuette becomes an integral part of the narrative. Characters are driven to pursue the Maltese Falcon, and its allure significantly affects their actions and alliances. The quest for the falcon becomes a driving force, leading to conflicts, betrayals, and unexpected alliances. Throughout the novel, the significance of the Maltese Falcon is felt, shaping the character arcs and contributing to the overall tension and suspense. The careful introduction and development of the MacGuffin enhance its impact on the narrative.

3. Benefits of Implementation

The implementation of a MacGuffin in a story offers several benefits to storytelling and character development. Firstly, it provides a clear and tangible objective for the characters to pursue, creating a sense of purpose and direction. This can heighten the stakes and increase the tension, as characters contend with obstacles and adversaries in their quest for the MacGuffin. Additionally, the MacGuffin can serve as a vehicle for exploring the depths of characters’ desires, motivations, and values. It can reveal hidden facets of their personalities, as their actions and choices are influenced by their pursuit or protection of the MacGuffin. Moreover, the MacGuffin can act as a unifying element, bringing together disparate characters and storylines in a cohesive manner.

4. Potential Pitfalls to Avoid

One common pitfall is overly relying on the MacGuffin as a plot crutch, neglecting the development of compelling characters and engaging storytelling.

The MacGuffin should not overshadow the emotional journey of the characters or become a mere object of desire without deeper thematic significance.

Another pitfall is failing to provide a satisfying resolution to the MacGuffin’s arc. Audiences invest in the pursuit of the MacGuffin, and its resolution should deliver a meaningful payoff that aligns with the story’s themes and character arcs.

Lastly, it is crucial to avoid predictability and clichés when utilizing a MacGuffin. Strive for originality and surprise, ensuring that the MacGuffin’s purpose and ultimate resolution are unexpected yet satisfying.

5. Character Archetypes and Their Potential

Character archetypes play a crucial role in shaping narratives involving MacGuffins. These recurring personas bring unique qualities and motivations that interact with the MacGuffin, adding depth and complexity to the story.

The Seeker: The Seeker archetype is driven by a relentless pursuit of the MacGuffin. This character embodies determination and single-mindedness, often acting as the primary catalyst for the plot’s progression. In J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, Frodo Baggins assumes the role of the Seeker as he embarks on a perilous journey to destroy the One Ring, the story’s MacGuffin.

The Guardian: Contrastingly, the Guardian archetype is tasked with protecting the MacGuffin from falling into the wrong hands. This character is often burdened with the responsibility of ensuring the MacGuffin’s safety. An example can be found in the character of Albus