After having the basic understanding of the plot structure and the basic elements, be assured that you can start your start from anywhere.
The simple litmus test for a story is to check the following questions – provided you have an idea or a character or a beginning or an end.
- Who would consider the situation to be their worst nightmare?
- What could be the worst nightmare/dream of your main character?
- What might have happened just before the scene to trigger this reaction?
- What would happen just after the scene?
- How could it turn out to be the best/worst thing that ever happened to your character?
- What is your character’s attitude towards Marlowe’s seven needs or personality traits and how he/she behaves and react towards each level?
So, it is as simple as that. You juggle with these elements and decide which fits the best and where.
Activity
- Choose a film and do the plot break down (situation, objective, opponent, disaster). Afterward, breakdown the dynamics (goal, conflict, disaster, reaction, dilemma, decision).
Describe your characters on each of the 7 levels of Marlowe’s hierarchy of needs model.