Writing a compelling story is a journey, and for many authors, the most challenging part is "filling out the saggy middle of your fiction story." This middle portion often lacks the momentum of the beginning or the payoff of the ending, leading to a dreaded lull that risks losing readers' interest. If you’re struggling with a flat middle in your novel, you're not alone. Let’s dive into five practical strategies that can transform this part of your story from a drag to a page-turner.
1. Journal It Out: Uncover Hidden Plot Gems
When you feel stuck, grab a journal and start exploring the possibilities. Journaling can help free up your creative mind and generate ideas specific to your story's needs. Start with focused questions to unlock potential scenes:
What events could occur between two key plot points?
Where is my character mentally and emotionally at this stage?
How could a change in setting or a new challenge drive the story forward?
Don’t censor yourself; let the ideas flow, jotting down every possibility. This “brain dump” can be invaluable for fleshing out the narrative in unique ways. Even if you don’t use every idea, you’ll find direction and might stumble upon an unexpected twist or character insight.
2. Focus on Emotion to Hook Your Readers
Readers stay engaged with stories that make them feel. Whether it’s joy, heartbreak, excitement, or tension, emotion drives reader connection. To keep the middle of your story engaging, focus on what your character feels during each scene. Consider how emotions like adrenaline, fear, passion, or sadness can shape events and interactions in this part of the story.
Here’s a tip: ask yourself, “What is the most intense feeling my character could experience here?” Then, build the scene to amplify that feeling. By making emotion the foundation of each scene, you create a deeper connection with the reader and ensure that even "filler" scenes contribute meaningfully to the story.
3. Dial Up the Emotion: Don’t Just Write It—Intensify It
Once you’ve pinpointed the emotional tone of each scene, turn up the volume. For example, if a scene is supposed to be sad, make it heart-wrenching. If your character is angry, dial it up to a near breaking point. Ask yourself, "What’s the worst (or best) possible outcome here?" By raising the emotional stakes, you pull readers deeper into your story, making it impossible for them to turn away.
For writers who sometimes feel their scenes lack punch, this exercise in emotional intensification can reinvigorate a lagging narrative and keep readers invested as they journey through the middle of your story.
4. Start with Emotion and Reverse Engineer the Scene
If you’re still struggling with filling out the saggy middle of your fiction story, try starting with the desired emotional outcome and work backward. Ask yourself, “How do I want my character to feel at the end of this scene?” Once you have an answer, think about the sequence of events that could realistically lead them to that emotional state.
This reverse-engineering method not only helps you craft a compelling scene but also ensures that each scene serves a purpose in your character’s emotional journey. With this approach, your middle section becomes more than just a bridge between major plot points; it’s an essential part of your character’s evolution.
5. Cause and Effect: Building a Logical Flow Through the Middle
One of the most effective ways to create a natural progression in your story is by using cause and effect. Each action should logically lead to the next, allowing your characters’ decisions to propel the story forward. To create a cohesive middle, focus on both external events and your character’s internal responses.
For example:
What happens in Scene A that directly affects Scene B?
How does the character’s reaction to Scene A influence their choices in Scene B?
By ensuring every scene flows from the previous one, you create a sense of inevitability, making the end of your story feel earned and satisfying. This technique not only adds to the story’s believability but also keeps readers engaged as they sense that every scene has meaning.
Bonus Tip: Infuse Emotion into the “In-Between” Scenes
Sometimes you’ll encounter scenes that, while necessary for continuity, feel less exciting to write. Instead of glossing over them, make a conscious effort to infuse them with emotion. Ask yourself, “What’s at stake emotionally in this scene?” Even the most mundane interaction can be laced with tension, joy, fear, or curiosity. Highlighting these subtle emotional nuances will prevent your story from lagging, even in quieter moments.
Workshop Opportunity: Learn How to Write Six-Figure Fiction
For those eager to take their storytelling to the next level, consider joining the free workshop, "How to Turn Every Fiction Story You Write into a Six-Figure Story, Step-by-Step." This in-depth workshop offers psychological hacks and story-building techniques designed to elevate your fiction. It runs from November 18th to 22nd, and replays will be available in a dedicated Facebook group for anyone who can’t attend live. To sign up, visit bit.ly/6FSWorkshop.
Filling Out the Saggy Middle of Your Fiction Story: In Conclusion
Mastering the middle of your story may feel daunting, but with the right tools and mindset, you can create a story that captivates from start to finish. By journaling, intensifying emotions, focusing on cause and effect, and staying intentional about the emotional journey, you’ll keep your readers hooked and engaged. Implement these tips to conquer the saggy middle, and soon, your fiction story will be more dynamic, compelling, and memorable.
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