Flashcards on Crafting Compelling Antagonists
Crafting Compelling Antagonists: A Writer's Guide
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Writing Fiction and Story Structure
19 cards
Card 1
Question: What is the 'opening image' and where is it typically found in a story's structural breakdown?
Answer: A snapshot of the world before the story begins; it shows the character before they undergo change. It's located at 0–1% of the total length.
Card 2
Question: What does 'theme stated' mean and in which part of the story does it appear?
Answer: A character (often a minor one) hints at the core truth the protagonist needs to learn; it appears around the 5% mark.
Card 3
Question: What is the purpose of the 'setup' (1–10%) in a story?
Answer: To introduce the hero's flaws, desires, fears, and social world; to plant a 'hidden wound', demonstrate competence, and evoke sympathy before their wo
Card 4
Question: What is the 'catalyst' and what function does it serve in the structure?
Answer: An incident (a phone call, a letter, an explosion) that disrupts the old life and makes returning impossible; it occurs around the 10% mark.
Card 5
Question: What happens during the 'debate' phase (10–20%)?
Answer: The hero hesitates, grappling with doubts and the costs of change; it's important to show fear and realistic reluctance.
Card 6
Question: What does 'break into two' mean and when does it occur?
Answer: An irrevocable choice: the character commits to a new plan/identity; it occurs at ~20%.
Card 7
Question: What does the 'B story' represent and when does it typically appear?
Answer: A secondary relationship (romantic or mentor-student) that carries the theme and personally pushes the hero; it appears around the 22% mark.
Card 8
Question: What content is included in the 'fun and games' section (20–50%)?
Answer: The fulfillment of the premise: complications, skill testing, showcasing what the character can do, and why the reader will love the concept.
Card 9
Question: What is the 'midpoint' (50%) and how does it change the plot?
Answer: A false victory or defeat that shifts the story's meaning; it escalates the stakes and reveals that the journey is either incomplete or dangerous.
Card 10
Question: What does the 'bad guys close in' phase (50–75%) mean?
Answer: External threats and internal doubts converge; defense mechanisms fail, and allies depart or betray.