Abstract
A Writer’s View of Plot in Literature
- Plot means different things to different writers
- For me, plot is essentially the basis on which the story is written
- A very broad outline, containing a central event in the story (that could be the climax) is usually a good starting point.
- The formation of the plot is an evolutionary process. Plots do not spring fully formed into my mind
- The plot sometimes does not evolve sequentially.
- Many factors that to a critic or reader might seem independent of plot influence the plot profoundly. These include, for instance, the writer’s style or writing, the nature of his observations, narrative voice, the requirement of authenticity, and so on.
- Discovering some of these factors takes time. Concentrated bumbling is perhaps the best way to describe the process of discovery.
- Thorough knowledge of conventional criticism might be a disadvantage to a writer. I was perhaps lucky not to have studied literature formally at any depth.
- There are no rules. There is no right and wrong in plots. Every writer must develop his or her sense of “fit” to the extent required.
Some books that have helped me:
- Steinbeck, John: Journal of a Novel
- King, Stephen: On Writing
- Campbell, Joseph: The Hero With a Thousand Faces
- Leacock, Stephen: How to Write
Biography
Shashi Warrier is a writer famous for his novel “Hangman’s Journal”. He’s in Singapore to give an invited talk at the Singapore Writer’s Festival, but will stop by the USP to talk about the writer’s craft. Shashi has published several books including fairy tales, thrillers, literary fiction, is currently working on an autobiographical book, and has also published over a dozen short stories in anthologies and periodicals. With wife, two dogs and one cat, Shashi lives in Mangalore where he practices yoga, admires motorcycles, enjoys music, and reads books. He also like to travel.
Stories by Shashi:
The Hidden Continent
Suzy’s Gift
Night of the Krait
The Orphan Diaries
Sniper
Hangman’s Journal
The Homecoming
Two Wheels and a Prayer
Noordin’s Gift
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