October 2024 

               Study and reference Notes

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Writing Introspective Scenes

Bringing Introspection to Life

          As writers, we've all been there–stuck in the quagmire of introspective scenes, wondering how to make our characters' thoughts and feelings interesting to readers. After all, isn't introspection just a fancy word for "nothing's happening"? Not quite. In this article, we'll explore the art of crafting compelling thinking and talking scenes that will keep your readers engaged and invested in your characters' journeys.

The Problem with Introspection

          Introspective scenes have a reputation for being, well, boring. And it's not hard to see why. When a character is stuck in their own head, there's often little action, dialogue, or external conflict to drive the plot forward. But that doesn't mean these scenes are unnecessary. In fact, introspection is a crucial aspect of character development, allowing your characters to process their thoughts, emotions, and motivations.

         So, how do you make introspection interesting? Let's dive into three essential tips to help you bring your thinking and talking scenes to life.

Give Your Character Something to React To

          Introspection is often a reaction to something that's happened or is about to happen. Without a clear catalyst, your character's thoughts can feel like meandering musings, leaving the reader wondering what the point of the scene is. Make sure there's a clear event or stimulus that sets off your character's introspection. This could be a conversation, a revelation, a setback, or a triumph - anything that sparks a strong emotional response.

For example, in "The Mozart's Seasons," a 12-year-old violinist is asked to participate in a competition, sparking her anxiety about performing in front of a large crowd. This event sets off a chain of thoughts and feelings that drive the rest of the scene.

Introduce the Dilemma Right Away

          An introspective scene needs a clear problem or dilemma to propel the character's thoughts forward. Without a sense of tension or conflict, the scene can feel like a pointless exercise in navel-gazing. Introduce the dilemma early on, making it clear what the character is struggling with and why they can't simply make a decision and move on.

This dilemma should be rooted in the character's flaws, fears, or personal issues, making their introspection feel authentic and relatable. In our example from "The Mozart's Seasons," the protagonist is torn between her desire to compete and her fear of failure, creating a clear dilemma that drives her thoughts and feelings.

Create a Clear Conclusion

          An introspective scene should lead to a clear conclusion or plan of action. Without a sense of resolution or direction, the scene can feel like a dead end, leaving the reader wondering what the point of it all was. Make sure your character emerges from their introspection with a new perspective, a plan, or a renewed sense of purpose.

          In our example, the protagonist ultimately decides to compete, despite her initial reservations. This decision sets the stage for the next scene, creating a clear narrative arc that propels the story forward.

Adding Tension and Conflict

          Even with these tips, introspective scenes can still feel a bit... sedate. To combat this, try adding an extra layer of tension or conflict to the scene. This could be an internal conflict, where the character disagrees with their own thoughts or feelings, or an external conflict, where another character challenges their perspective.

You can also combine introspective scenes with other scenes that might be considered "boring," such as transitional or traveling scenes. By weaving these scenes together, you can create a richer, more dynamic narrative that keeps the reader engaged.

Conclusion

          Writing compelling thinking and talking scenes requires a deep understanding of your characters' thoughts, feelings, and motivations. By giving your character something to react to, introducing a clear dilemma, and creating a clear conclusion, you can craft introspective scenes that are engaging, relatable, and essential to the narrative.

Remember, introspection is not just about navel-gazing; it's about revealing character, creating tension, and driving the plot forward. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to writing, thinking, and talking scenes that will keep your readers invested in your characters' journeys.

Now it's your turn

          Take a closer look at your own writing and identify areas where you can apply these tips. Do you have an introspective scene that's feeling a bit flat? Try adding a clear catalyst, introducing a dilemma, and creating a clear conclusion. Experiment with different techniques, such as adding tension or conflict, to bring your thinking and talking scenes to life.

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Writing Exercise

        Instructions for this Month's Writing Exercise are listed in Writing Exercise (see menu upper right of screen or Click Here). 

          If you cannot come to the meeting, email your work to me, Charles@PrierNet.com, and I will have someone at the meeting read it and I will pass along the group's comments to you.