Plotting, hmmm?

Plotting. 

Now this is going to take some work.

I really do like to work from an outline of some sort; to know where I'm going.  I need a map.  I frequently take side roads but I usually come back to it at some point.

When I took my course, Shape, Write and Sell your Novel from Long Ridge Writer's Group they had me do an outline.  It was helpful, I could take a quick look and see what threads needed more attention; like more on the romance end or needing a scene about the main story goal.

"Like tapestry, every story is woven of threads that become invisible within the overall design.  By familiarizing yourself with story threads and being aware of them as you read, you can learn to weave story threads skillfully into your own novel."
-Karen S. Weisner
First Draft in 30 Days
(this is the help guide I'm using for writing my current book.  I'm trying to find my own path but it never hurts to try something different).

So what does plotting entail?
My outline will consist of the following threads:

*story goal (or theme)-the central idea of a novel

*romance thread (optional, depending on genre)-in a romance novel, the most important part of the book is the relationship between your hero and heroine.  It is a long-term thread that starts at the beginning of the story until the threads tie up at the happily-ever-after.

*subplot threads- these function as secondary plots.  They usually contrast or run parallel to the main plot.  They can also function outside the realm of the main plot, existing largely to provide a change of scene, emotion or tone.  They should work in harmony to effectively develop both character and plot.

*plot tension- is essential.  A story without plot tension leaves the reader uninvolved and unemotional.  You need to bring readers to the snapping point and only then give them what they want- temporarily.

*romantic/sexual tension (again, optional, depending on your genre)- in a romance novel romantic/sexual tension is essential.  You want to start this tension as early in the story as you can.

*release- is an easement of plot or romantic tension.  It might take the form of resolution of one aspect of the main problem.  In a romantic or sexual thread or subplot, a release could be a kiss, love making or declaration of feelings. 

*downtime- is a form of release, but it happens at a moment of incredible tension.  It should be one of the most poignant scenes in your novel.  This comes at the end of the middle section of the book, the main character may step back from the action and reflect on what happily-ever-after could have been.  For a time, the main character also may believe that the story goal is unachievable, and they may seem to give up the fight.  A bittersweet moment of some sort.

*black moment (or climax)- this occurs in the first part of the end section of the book (when tension is at its highest), it leaves reader and the character wondering whether evil will overcome good.

*resolution- comes after the climax when the story's main problems have been resolved.  This is where you would tie up any loose ends and provide a satisfying conclusion for you subplot threads.  The resolutions for the long-term thread should be relatively clean but subplot thread resolutions may not tie up so neatly.  I have to fulfill the underlying promise of a logical, acceptable conclusion, even if it isn't a happy one.

*aftereffects of resolution (optional)- may come in the form of an emotional reaction or an event that carries a story goal or subplot thread beyond its conclusion.  Very few writers include aftereffects of resolution, though they're used frequently in movies.

Go into as much detail as you can with your plot sketch, but remember that your first pass will be light on details.  It will grow more as you work with your story. 

I hope this helps you as much as it has been helping me.

Now I'm off to do some research on location and maybe find pictures of my characters.