Writing for Children? Adding Conflict 11/19/2012 4:36:34 PM
Let's suppose you've worked diligently on your children's story that you've recently submitted to the editor. Finally, your reply comes in the mailbox. But when you read it, the editor writes "lacks conflict" on it. What does that mean?
Editors have differing opinions on the exact meaning, but it's not good news. Without enough tension, or struggle for your characters, your story just isn't remarkable.
Occasionally, the editor will have the time to explain his/her thoughts more fully. It's possible that there isn't enough action incorporated in your work. Perhaps the action doesn't advance the plot, so it doesn't serve a purpose. In either case, it would still reflect that your plot and theme are weak. How can you remedy this flaw? Here are some suggestions:
Conflict and Theme: When you're having a conversation with your friends, you might think that conflict involves a knock down drag out fight. Not true in children's literature. You may introduce a problem, or struggle which is internal, or within your main character.
Let's imagine that Kara desperately wants to earn a dancing part in the school play, but her mom isn't even aware that dancing his Kara's passion. Instead, mom dreams of Kara becoming a cheerleader on her school's renowned team. Kara frets about telling her mom what she really wants. She doesn't think mom will understand that cheerleading isn't part of her dream. Once Kara confronts her mom, your readers will recognize that Kara has overcome a major obstacle. She's matured as a person, which is something that's essential for your story's success.
Another type of Conflict: Suppose the obstacle your character faces doesn't involve any internal choices. What else is there? You may have your main character confronting another person in the story who stands in the way of success.
What if Joey is passionate about baseball, but he's overweight and not very athletic. He's an alternate on the team, but no one ever chooses him to play. Every one in school teases him about his weight, but they don't realize that he's been practicing running the bases at home, along with making careful dietary choices. Joey's best friend, Paul, has been helping him with hitting the ball. When one of the better players on the team leaves practice because of injury, Joey is called on to join in. Everyone on the team is stunned to see Joey get a hit and manage to reach base safely. Now Joey is rewarded for his hard work and his friends realize they have judged him unfairly.
Some Tests to Detect Lack of Conflict:
1. Does every action in your story relate well to the plot? Does it advance your story message?
2. Is the ending a result of the main character's actions? Be sure that the ending is a result of something your character has done and it wouldn't happen regardless of what your character did. If the ending is disconnected, it could result in a lack of conflict.
3. Can you sum up the conflicts, or struggles, in your story in one sentence? If not, your story might be lacking in this area. You may need to clarify your message.
Now you have a better idea of how to add conflict. I hope you're on the way to creating something wonderful.
