Central conflict

Definition

Central conflict refers to the main struggle or challenge that drives the narrative forward, often between opposing forces or characters. In feature writing, this conflict is crucial as it shapes the story's direction and engages the audience by highlighting stakes, emotions, and resolutions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Central conflict can be categorized into various types, including person vs. person, person vs. self, person vs. society, and person vs. nature.
2. In feature writing, identifying the central conflict helps journalists determine what aspects of a story are most compelling and relevant to their audience.
3. The central conflict often serves as a vehicle for character development, revealing their motivations, flaws, and strengths throughout the narrative.
4. Effective feature stories typically highlight the central conflict in a way that resonates emotionally with readers, making them more invested in the outcome.
5. Understanding the central conflict allows writers to structure their narratives more effectively, creating a clear beginning, middle, and end that holds the reader's attention.

Review Questions

• How does the central conflict shape character development in feature stories?
  • The central conflict plays a vital role in shaping character development because it forces characters to confront their challenges and make choices that reveal their true selves. As they navigate through the conflict, their motivations and personalities become clearer, leading to growth or change. This transformation is often critical for engaging readers, as it adds depth to both the characters and the narrative.
• Discuss how a well-defined central conflict can enhance reader engagement in feature writing.
  • A well-defined central conflict enhances reader engagement by creating emotional stakes and investment in the outcome of the story. When readers understand what is at risk for the characters involved, they become more immersed in the narrative. The tension created by the central conflict keeps readers turning pages as they seek resolution and insight into how conflicts will be resolved or evolve.
• Evaluate the impact of an unresolved central conflict on the effectiveness of a feature story.
  • An unresolved central conflict can significantly diminish the effectiveness of a feature story by leaving readers feeling unsatisfied or confused about the narrative's purpose. Without resolution, readers may question the significance of the events presented and lose interest in the characters' journeys. On the other hand, effectively highlighting an unresolved conflict can also provoke thought and discussion among readers if it is framed in a way that encourages reflection on larger societal issues.

Related terms

Character Arc: The transformation or inner journey of a character throughout a story, which is often influenced by the central conflict.

Theme: The underlying message or main idea of a narrative, which is often revealed through the central conflict and its resolution.

Resolution: The part of the story where the central conflict is resolved, providing closure and clarity to the narrative.