As a writer (and as a reader), I am sure that you have heard that conflict is a critical part of any good story. However, you may be wondering if conflict is that necessary in a story. And if so, how important is conflict? Well, in short, the answer to whether conflict is necessary is yes! Conflict is crucial for a story as it brings excitement and drama. However, that's not the only reason you should add conflict to your story. Continue reading for five important reasons conflict is essential to a story.
Drives the Plot Forward
The first reason why conflict is so important in a story is that it introduces challenges and obstacles. And these challenging plot events that the characters must confront are what drive a story forward and create momentum in the story. Without conflict, the plot of your story might be flat and even boring since there won't be any reasons for your characters to act, change, or make decisions. Whether it's an external battle with an antagonist or an internal struggle, conflict forces the story to move forward as the characters work to resolve it.
Reveals Character Information
Relating to the previous point, the conflict in your story will really reveal who your characters truly are. Conflict allows you to show how your characters react under pressure, face challenges, and make difficult decisions. As a result, you can show their values, fears, strengths, and weaknesses. Overall, a character’s response to conflict can unveil layers of their personality that might not be visible otherwise, helping your readers connect with and understand them more deeply.
Helps Characters Grow
As noted in the previous point, conflict also helps your characters grow. It pushes characters out of their comfort zones and forces them to change and adapt. By overcoming obstacles, your characters can evolve, and become wiser, stronger, and more self-aware. This growth is critical to creating a satisfying character arc, showing progression from the beginning to the end of the story. In general, conflict is the driving force behind character development.
Creates Tension
One of the main things you think of when it comes to conflict is tension. Conflict creates suspense and tension, which keeps readers engaged. When there is conflict in a story, readers become more invested in the outcome as they eagerly anticipate how the plot will unfold. Tension heightens the emotional investment in your story, drawing your readers into the story as they worry about the characters and the resolution of the conflict.
Highlights Themes
Lastly, conflict is important because it often embodies the themes of your story, allowing you to explore your messages and ideas deeper. Through the challenges your characters face, your narrative can delve into questions regarding anything and everything from romance, identity, justice, and growing up!
In conclusion, conflict really is critical to a well-written story as it drives the plot forward and also shows a lot about the characters. Without conflict, your story would lack the necessary dynamic that makes both your characters and their journey compelling.
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