Kickstart your story!

The Lion King: Kickstart your story.
How would you have kickstart (ed) The Lion King?

Today, we’re diving into a powerful question that can kickstart and sustain your story: What does your protagonist want and why can’t he or she have it? This short sentence may well be the simple key to crafting a compelling narrative, focusing, as it does, on both the inner and outer obstacles, and driving your character’s arc. Let’s see how it all works!

What Does Your Protagonist Want?

Firstly, let’s talk about what your protagonist wants. This desire is the engine of your story. It’s what thrusts your character forward and keeps your readers and audiences engaged. Your protagonist’s goal, importantly, should be clear, specific, and be something that he or she feels passionate about.

In J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry wants to find a sense of belonging and understand his identity. This desire drives him to explore the magical world and learn the truth about his parents and his own place in this new reality.

Why Can’t He or She Have It?

Now, let’s explore the second part of the question: Why can’t your protagonists have what they want? This is where your story’s conflict looms large. Obstacles, both internal and external, create tension and keep your readers hooked.

External obstacles are outside forces that stand in your protagonist’s way. In The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, Katniss Everdeen wants to survive and protect her sister, but the cruel games and the Capitol’s oppression are powerful external obstacles.

Internal obstacles, by contrast, are your character’s fears, doubts, or flaws. In Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Elizabeth Bennet’s initial prejudice and Mr. Darcy’s pride are internal obstacles that prevent them from being together.

Inner vs. Outer Obstacles

To craft a rich narrative, it’s essential to balance the inner and outer obstacles against each other. They should intertwine and challenge each other, creating a complex and engaging storyline.

In The Lion King. Simba’s outer obstacle is to reclaim his rightful place as king from Scar, but his inner obstacle is overcoming his guilt and self-doubt. These intertwined struggles make his journey compelling and his eventual triumph all the more satisfying.

Character Arc and Story Goal

These obstacles are crucial in shaping your character’s arc. The protagonist’s journey to overcoming these challenges leads to growth and transformation—the essence of a strong character arc.

For instance, in Harper Lee‘s To Kill a Mockingbird, Scout’s initial innocence and naivety are challenged by the racial injustices she witnesses. Her journey to understand these complexities and stand up for what is right shapes her character arc.

Tying It All Together

Ultimately, both the inner and outer obstacles must plug directly into the story’s goal. They must push your protagonist towards change and help to make his or her victory or defeat meaningful.

In The Lord of the Rings, Frodo’s goal is to destroy the One Ring. His external obstacles include the treacherous journey and the enemies pursuing him, while his inner obstacles include the Ring’s corrupting influence. Together, these challenges shape his character and drive the epic narrative.

Summary

The question, what does your protagonist want and why can’t he or she have it, then, is an economical, effective way to kickstart your story. It creates absorbing conflicts, and initiates a full and satisfying character arc. Use it to examine both the inner and outer obstacles your protagonist faces, and watch your tale spring to life.

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