Question

What are the benefits of constructing a narrative with multiple plot lines?
Responses

It helps the story have more rounded characters.
It helps the story have more rounded characters. - no response given

It helps the story make more sense to the reader.
It helps the story make more sense to the reader. - no response given

It helps the story be more complex.
It helps the story be more complex. - no response given

It helps the story incorporate figurative elements.

Answer 1

All four statements can be true, but some need qualifiers:

- It helps the story have more rounded characters. — True. Multiple plot lines let you show characters in different situations, relationships, and conflicts, revealing more facets of their personality and growth.

- It helps the story make more sense to the reader. — Sometimes. Parallel plots can clarify motivations, consequences, and context (so the whole story feels more coherent), but if poorly signposted or unrelated they can confuse readers. Clear links and pacing are key.

- It helps the story be more complex. — True. Multiple plots add structural, thematic, and emotional complexity by introducing interacting conflicts, perspectives, and stakes.

- It helps the story incorporate figurative elements. — Partly true. Multiple plots create opportunities for thematic parallels, symbolism, motifs, and metaphorical resonance across threads, but they don’t automatically add figurative language—those elements still must be intentionally written.

Short summary: Multiple plot lines are great for deepening characters, adding complexity, and enabling thematic/figurative resonance; just make sure the threads are clearly related and well-managed so readers aren’t lost.