A writer should consider using multiple plotlines in the same story when they share characters and a setting or when they are loosely related to each other. This can create depth, enhance character development, and explore different themes or perspectives within the same narrative universe. Unrelated plotlines might confuse readers, while sharing a genre alone is not a strong enough reason to weave them together.
When should a writer use multiple plotlines in the same story?
Responses
if they are in the same genre
if they are unrelated to each other
if they share characters and a setting
if they are loosely related to each other
5 answers
Plot line #1: A giant corporation is threatening the environment in Alaska. Darren, an environmental lawyer, is about to have the fight of his life.
Plot line #2: Lucia is a tax lawyer in Texas. She finds out that some businesses have not been paying their fair share of taxes. They will soon if she has anything to say about it.
How effectively would these plot lines work in the same narrative?
Responses:
effectively, because both characters are lawyers
effectively, because the storylines involve similar plots
not effectively, because there would be two lawyer charactersnot effectively, because there would be two lawyer characters
not effectively, because the characters are far apart
These plot lines would work not effectively, because the characters are far apart and the contexts of their struggles (environmental issues in Alaska versus tax issues in Texas) are quite different. While they may share a profession as lawyers, the lack of a clear connection between their storylines could lead to a disjointed narrative.
Responses
by following the conductor
by counting the beats out loud
by tapping their feet to the beats
by giving each other physical cues with their arms, heads, and eyes
Chamber music performers stay together by giving each other physical cues with their arms, heads, and eyes. Unlike larger ensembles that have a conductor, chamber musicians rely on these non-verbal cues to maintain synchronization and communicate effectively during their performance.