Tag Archives: writing tips

Understanding Subplots: The Key to Storytelling

I’ve had lots of questions and about plotting stories, and my articles on plot and structure continue to be among my most read posts.

What is a Subplot?

A subplot is a secondary storyline which runs alongside the main plot. It often involves supporting characters, additional conflicts, or personal struggles that relate directly or indirectly to the protagonist’s journey. Some of the best subplots connect to the main narrative, either by reinforcing the theme, revealing character traits, or influencing the main plot’s outcome.

Why We Need Subplots?

Whether you are writing scripts, short stories or novels, having multiple plot strands creates a necessary expansion of the main themes and layers your stories. Subplots add depth, complexity, and emotional resonance to a story. They transform a simple narrative into a layered experience that feels more realistic and engaging. Understanding how and why to use them strengthens your writing.

Subplots Add Depth to Characters

One of the greatest strengths of subplots is their ability to develop characters beyond the main storyline. The main plot often focuses on a specific external goal: solving a mystery, defeating an antagonist, or achieving a dream. Subplots, however, often explore the internal lives of characters: their relationships, fears, and motivations. This creates intrigue and insights for the reader, which might be missed through the main plot line.

Creating More Realistic Worlds

Real life rarely follows a single narrative thread. People juggle relationships, responsibilities, and individual struggles. Subplots highlight this layering effect by weaving multiple storylines together. This creates a world which feels more realistic. Supporting characters also show their own motivations and story arcs rather than existing solely to support the protagonist. This creates a richer, more immersive experience for the reader.

Subplots Strengthen Themes

Subplots are powerful tools for reinforcing the central themes of a story. A well-designed subplot often mirrors, contrasts, or adds complications to the central plot. If the main plot explores trust, a subplot might show a different character grappling with betrayal in a different context. These variations allow readers to view themes from multiple angles, making the story feel more authentic.

Change of Pace

A single storyline moving at full intensity from beginning to end can become exhausting for readers. Bringing in subplots shift the focus and builds gradual tension, creating breathing space between key points in the plot. They can also act as narrative bridges which keep readers engaged, while the main plot builds toward a pivotal turning point.

Subplots Drive the Main Plot Forward

Although subplots are secondary, they often have direct consequences for the main storyline. A subplot might influence a character’s choices during a critical moment, or reveal information which changes the direction of the main conflict. When subplots intersect with the main narrative, the story feels more interconnected.

Some Examples in Films

If you’ve ever watched the film, Crash, you’ll see how well subplots are used to increase tension and keep the viewer hooked. Set in LA over several days, we see the stories of different characters interweaving. Its impact is intense. Layering is important, and an interweaving of plot and subplot creates a richer, more diverse experience.

In the film, Shawshank Redemption, the role of Brooks as Red’s negative mentor, tricking the viewer into expecting Red will follow the same path towards destruction.

What about Bilbo Baggins, who saves the dwarves from the spiders in The Hobbit. Baggins is a good example of creating conflict through a subplot to illustrate growth in a character.

Unlocking Creativity: The Power of Daily Writing

I often get asked by new and aspiring writers how to begin and where to find ideas. The first thing I want to say is that no two writers are the same, nor do they work the in same way. The next, and probably the most important thing I would say, is that consistency is key. The more regularly you write, and the more often, the better you will become.

“No two writers are the same…consistency is key.”

Nothing is wasted. Even if there are days where you write paragraphs that won’t be read or printed, you will still learn from the process. It’s like muscle memory, but for the brain. Creating new narratives engages your brain in new ways and it also helps to form fresh neural pathways and connections, sharpening your mind.

Writing also physically changes the brain, improving memory and critical thinking. It activates multiple ares of the brain and increases levels of self-awareness, as well as enhancing well-being. Handwriting has more benefits than typing, but I do both. I find it helpful to journal ideas, but I type up my work when I get going.

“I find it helpful to journal ideas, but I type up my work when I get going.”

Start small and build up. Try writing 100 words over a coffee before you begin the day. Some writers get up early and write for an hour, but it’s different for everyone. Check out the 5am Writer’s Club and the Twitter hashtag #5amWritersClub

Build up slowly and keep it consistent. Aim for once a day or set aside a few days a week where you have a slot to write without distractions. Switch everything off, especially your phone. Go for a walk first if you can, or if you need a break between writing stints. The motion of walking can clear any mental clutter in your mind, helping you to focus on new ideas. The increased blood flow to the brain also boosts creativity and cognitive function.

“The actual motion of walking can clear any mental clutter in your mind, helping you to focus on new ideas.”

Use images to help with inspiration. I’ve written a blog post on creating Pinterest boards for writing inspiration, but you can use a photograph, a postcard or read some poetry or short stories to get you started. Sometimes, you just need an idea, a scene, or a snippet of conversation, or a line of poetry to begin.

I’d love to know how you get on. Leave a message in the comments, and feel free to ask any questions.