definition: a state of equilibrium or a tendency to reach equilibrium. People
strive for this in our lives because no one wants to be out of control or in
pain, or whatever it is that takes us out of balance. Makes sense. It’s
commendable, even, but our characters cannot have a homeostatic existence. If
they do, our writing is dry and without tension.
composure, and balance, we tend to help (let?) our characters have that as well.
A threat approaches in the story and we instinctively try to squelch it. We
come up with a quick fix and since we’re the writer, we enact it. There.
Problem solved. Except, now we’ve unplugged the hole and drained out all the
tension that our story inherently tried to gain.
things straight. That reasoning might fit the SOTP (seat-of-the-pants/non-outlining)
writers. If they solve the problem quickly, they don’t have to remember to tie
up the thread. Solution: make yourself a note and get back to it later.
story. We must have tension.
character solving a problem too quickly. Let problems linger. Let your
characters suffer. Don’t bring them back to a calm state too quickly. In fact,
let the tension escalate by raising the stakes. Let things get worse. Let
conflicts go unresolved for a while. Readers will love you for it as they keep
turning pages.