Ask any question about Creative Writing here... and get an instant response.
How can I clarify a scene’s goal so it advances the story effectively?
Asked on Dec 02, 2025
Answer
Clarifying a scene's goal is crucial for advancing the story effectively, as it ensures each scene contributes to the narrative's progression and maintains reader engagement. By identifying the scene's purpose, you can align it with character development, plot advancement, or thematic exploration.
Example Technique:
- Step 1 – Identify the narrative goal of the scene or passage.
- Step 2 – Apply the structural, emotional, or stylistic adjustment needed.
- Step 3 – Add the final refinement that improves clarity, tension, or voice.
Additional Comment:
- Determine if the scene reveals character traits, advances the plot, or highlights a theme.
- Ensure the scene has a clear beginning, middle, and end to maintain structure.
- Use dialogue, action, or internal monologue to reinforce the scene's purpose.
- Consider the scene's impact on the overall pacing and emotional arc of the story.
Recommended Links:
