What Is the Main Conflict? A Quick Guide for Writers
Introduction
The heart of any story beats with Main conflict. It is the central struggle that propels characters, drives plot twists, and keeps readers hooked. Without a clear conflict, even the most vivid scenes can feel aimless.
Core Elements of Conflict
A. Characters Involved
- protagonist: The hero whose journey we follow.
- antagonist: The force—person, idea, or circumstance—that opposes the protagonist.
B. Nature of the Conflict
- Internal vs. External: Internal battles are within a character’s mind; external ones involve outside forces.
- Physical, Emotional, Moral, or Ideological: Conflicts can be fought with fists, feelings, ethics, or beliefs.
C. Goal(s)
Each side has a clear objective: the protagonist seeks to achieve something vital, while the antagonist aims to thwart that goal.
Types of Conflict
1. Internal (Psychological) Conflict
Example: A detective wrestling with guilt over a past mistake, questioning whether to reveal the truth or protect loved ones.
2. External (Interpersonal) Conflict
Example: Two rival entrepreneurs competing for market dominance in a tech startup scene.
3. Societal/Environmental Conflict
Example: A coastal town battling the relentless rise of sea levels, confronting government denial and personal loss.
Identifying the Main Conflict
1. Ask “What is at stake?”
The highest consequence if the conflict fails—whether it’s life, freedom, or identity—reveals the main conflict.
2. Look for the central question
What drives the protagonist’s actions? If the answer is “Can I survive this war?” that becomes the core tension.
3. Examine the narrative arc
Where does tension peak and resolve? The climax often mirrors the main conflict, making it unmistakable.
Structuring Conflict in a Story
1. Setup (Inciting Incident)
The event that introduces opposing forces—like a sudden betrayal or an unexpected disaster.
2. Rising Action
Escalates stakes, deepens motivations, and builds suspense.
3. Climax
The decisive confrontation where the main conflict reaches its zenith.
4. Resolution
Outcome of the conflict—win, loss, compromise, or transformation—provides closure.
Conflict’s Role in Character Development
1. Reveals Traits
courage, fear, resilience, and other qualities surface when characters face their main conflict.
2. Catalyzes Growth
The struggle forces change or reaffirmation of beliefs, pushing characters toward evolution.
3. Creates Relatability
Readers empathize with struggles that mirror real-life dilemmas, deepening engagement.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
1. Overloading with Multiple Conflicts
Too many tensions dilute focus; keep one main conflict at the forefront.
2. Predictable Outcomes
Introduce twists or unexpected resolutions to surprise readers.
3. Weak Antagonist
Ensure the opposing force has clear motives and power—otherwise, the conflict feels flat.
Techniques for Enhancing Conflict
1. Foreshadowing
Hint at future clashes through subtle cues or dialogue.
2. Symbolism
Use objects or motifs to represent conflict themes—like a broken mirror symbolizing shattered identity.
3. Dialogue Tension
Sharp exchanges reveal stakes and deepen the emotional impact.
Examples of Classic Main Conflicts
- Romeo & Juliet: Love versus family feud.
- The Hunger Games: Survival against an oppressive regime.
- to kill a mockingbird: Justice confronting prejudice.
Conclusion
A clear, compelling Main conflict is the engine that drives your narrative forward. By continually questioning what truly fuels tension—what’s at stake, who opposes whom, and how stakes evolve—you’ll craft stories that resonate, challenge, and captivate readers.