In my blog post "A Glimpse into my Current Writing Flow," I discussed a new writing technique I’ve developed recently. If you haven’t read it yet, you can tap/click on the title above. However, I’ve been exploring the idea of starting a story in the middle.
This is a writing technique I want to delve into, so I’ve done some research on how it can benefit your story to start in the middle! Let’s dive into how writing in the middle can unlock the potential of your story!
Writing the first chapters of your book can be tedious and, let’s admit it, a little boring. The beginning establishes many things for the reader, including who is involved in the story, where they are, and what is happening. It’s where to set the boundaries and rules of your universe, and sometimes it can be a little less entertaining.
So how can starting at a place of action/climax aid your story?
1. Starting your story from a place of passion
If you find it boring, there’s a large chance your reader will catch onto it. Adhering to the traditional writing method (chronological) can take away from the authenticity and energy of your story.
When you start from a scene, moment, or idea that excites YOU as an author, you are tapping into the core of what makes your story special. Your drive, your passion, your words! The heart of the story lies within the author’s passion for their craft.
Beginning your story by writing what you are passionate about will give you the freedom to create a more engaging narrative for the reader. It also gives you the ability to explore your characters and theme authentically rather than learning them off a spreadsheet.
2. Building your story based on the climax
The journey has to lead to a destination.
Building your story around the climax will give you clarity on how to structure the rest of your story. The climax is usually the clear destination the characters have fought to get to, and when you know what the climax is ahead of time, you can plan a clear goal for your story.
This will also help you develop other elements of your story! For example, you can shape your characters with intention, knowing what their sacrifices will be. Another example is pacing. Knowing what your climax is will require you to balance the buildup and dissipation of tension around it.
3. Thinking ahead on how the story will end
Starting your writing at the center of the action can help you finish strong. It is an unconventional approach, but it is also one that boosts momentum in your story. Capturing the momentum is pivotal, as many stories lose steam somewhere in the middle.
We as authors try to gain emotional relevance with our readers through our characters. Experiencing a character’s sacrifices and grief is something important for the reader, as it hones in on that emotional connection. By starting your writing with a strong climax, you can build toward a solid conclusion with a rewarding (or more devastating) payoff in the end.
4. Retaining action/stamina within your storywriting
One of the most important pros about starting your story in the middle is something I’ve alluded to in earlier points. Stamina! Often, writers will lose stamina once they get to the middle of their story. By writing your climax first, you can build off the most emotionally charged and action-packed part of the story. You are closer to the finish line, and this burst of energy can carry you to the finish line.
Retaining stamina within your story will also help you, as a writer, maintain your story. It’s harder to stray from the plot when you begin writing the most important part of the story. This can lead to a less daunting resolution for you.
Thank you for reading, and I hope you all have a wonderful Saturday. Happy writing! :)
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