Storytelling: Planning or Improvisation?

When it comes to crafting a compelling story, the approach can largely depend on the writer's preference and the nature of the narrative they are pursuing. In the writing world, there are two main approaches: meticulously planning out every detail beforehand or diving into the story with a purely improvisational mindset. Two notable voices in this debate are P.G. Wodehouse and the writer who prefers a more impromptu method.

The Art of Planning: Following P.G. Wodehouse

P.G. Wodehouse advocated for an extensive planning process. He believed in structuring the entire plot in advance, ensuring that the story worked to his full satisfaction. This systematic approach allowed him to focus on the uniqueness of his language and its musicality. This method ensures that the plot is consistent and the characters are well-defined from the beginning.

My Method: A Balance Between Planning and Flexibility

Unlike Wodehouse, I find that my stories often start with a vague idea for the overall plot and a brief outline of the main character. I jot down a paragraph of notes and let this idea percolate in my mind, allowing for some creative spark to build the narrative foundation.

Once I have this basic structure in mind, I proceed to create a more detailed synopsis. This synopsis consists of a numbered list of story beats, which represents the chapters or sections of the story. I might tweak this plan before actually starting to write, allowing me to establish the skeletal structure of the story without getting bogged down in the nitty-gritty details.

For each chapter, I write a synoptic list of story beats at the end of the document, crossing them off as I go. This helps me keep track of what needs to be done next and ensures a coherent progression of the narrative. The more I write, the more I understand my characters, and sometimes, their actions and decisions surprise even me. This organic development is crucial for creating realistic and dimensional characters.

The Constant Dance Between Composition and Improvisation

One of the most exciting aspects of storytelling is the balance between planned structure and spontaneous creativity. Characters often have a mind of their own and sometimes nudge the story in unexpected directions. If I do not plan my characters thoroughly, they can lead the narrative down a dead end, frustrating both the writer and readers.

For example, in my current work, a minor character was initially viewed as charming, confident, and attractive. However, as I wrote, her true colors began to show, revealing a selfish and monstrous side. This transformation gave her a more defined role in the story, culminating in a powerful moment where she is dropped by the protagonist, who recognizes the facade and refuses to continue being used.

The Importance of Character Development

Characters are the heart and soul of any story. They should be complex and three-dimensional, not simplistic literary archetypes or tropes. It is important to allow characters to surprise you, as their unique quirks and decisions can add depth and authenticity to the narrative. Consistency is key, but occasionally, a surprising action or decision can enrich the story and make characters more relatable.

In conclusion, while some writers prefer a thorough planning process, others find that a balance between structure and spontaneity yields the best results. Both approaches have their merits, and the key is to find a methodology that works best for the individual and the story at hand.