Source: The Phoblographer
Tips for Writers
Dramatic tension is the key to an engaging storyline. Or even an essay or blog post, for that matter. This takes the form of rising action, a series of reversals–escalating problems or crises–that must be resolved. Reversals keep us, the readers, involved. They make us root for the hero, whether fictional or non-fictional. And, via the effect Aristotle called catharsis, they make us worry about whether we will achieve our goals. So…
Even if you’re writing a “How to” post, include troubleshooting on how to deal with reversals. Show your readers how to overcome set-backs en route to baking the world’s greatest tart or building Thor-like abs. If you’re writing about life, you’ll want to address both external and internal conflicts, like those of Odysseus, Katniss Everdeen, and even Sheriff Woody. Why? Because…
The most powerful reversals are ironic. These are the moments in which your protagonist directly or indirectly causes a reversal themselves. I came to realize this when I was writing my fantasy novel The Wishing Map. In it, our hero Zack tries to escape from a village of well-meaning gnomes by distracting them with a game. But instead, this innocent diversion turns into a war–with Zack at its center.
In my feature film Healing River, and in the novelization (not yet published), the protagonist, Ingrid, sets out to revenge her son’s death. But instead, on the verge of success, she reverses herself and decides to save his killer.
I came to realize how powerfully these ironic reversals knitted my heroes’ emotional arcs to the rising action of their storylines. Hence, I found myself almost unconsciously pushing most reversals in this direction. Result? People have said how much they identify with the Ingrid’s and Zack’s struggles. And I think I know why. It’s because ironic reversals are the most powerful reversals there are…
Both in stories and in real life.
Truer words etc., Mitch!
Thank you, Gail.
This is such a valuable breakdown of what makes storytelling (and life-writing) truly compelling.
The idea that ironic reversals carry the deepest emotional weight really resonated with me.
They mirror our real-life moments of unintended consequence — and that’s what makes them unforgettable.
Thank you for articulating it so clearly. Saving this one to revisit often.
My privilege, Sait.
Great advice, Mitch! I’ve never thought about it that way. Like the comment above, I need to save this and return to it.
Thank you, Emma.
Thanks, Mitch. I am filing this one away under the heading, “Brilliant Writing Insights from A Guy Who Knows.”
Why, thank you, my Anonymous friend.
Good guidance, Mitch.
Thanks, Mary.
Thanks! Great advice!
My pleasure, Doval.
So interesting!
Thanks a lor
My pleasure, Luisa.
🙏🌼🙏
Ironic reversals. Great tip!
Thank you!
Wow!! I really appreciate this–thank you so much! Very helpful!!
So glad you find it helpful, Katie!
Now you’ve hot me thinking about reversals in the Bible – like Saul the persecutor of Christians, becoming Paul, apostle and martyr. 🙂
What a great example, Annie!
Very well said, great post !
Thank you, Mel.
Welcome
Great post
Thanks, L.G.
Thanks for the tip, Mitch. I’ve used reversals in my storytelling without realizing what they were. I’ve even written some ironic ones. This gives we good food for thought going forward.
Glad to hear that, David.
Wonderful instruction and insight, Mitch. Thank you!
My pleasure, Mitzy.
This is such an interesting take on storytelling- I love the idea of ironic reversals! It actually made me think about my own life lately. I rented a dumpster recently to tackle a big decluttering project, thinking it would be a straightforward process. Of course, halfway through, I kept finding sentimental items I wasn’t ready to part with, which totally slowed me down. Talk about a reversal I caused myself! Guess even cleaning out junk has its own “rising action” and “catharsis,” right??
Apparently so, Jeanie! ;>)
Reversals are taught by our loving creator and God.
When naked went from “normal” to “sinful” … he clothed us with sacrificial garments to replace our substitute leaves
When we were condemned already he came with eternal life
When we die corruptible and mortal, he clothes us with incorruptible immortality
From excluded creation to included family
Praise God for the Great Exchange… Resounding Reversal… Iconic Irony
Amen to that, my friend.
Insightful…
Sometimes i have so much to write, but; i just lose the path
Wonderful ♥️
Glad you enjoyed the post, Caleb.