“Wait…what do you mean
I’m the Subplot?!”
If you’re looking to add depth, complexity, and length to your story, subplots are the way to go. They enrich the main plot and add layers to the narrative, making it more engaging for readers. But how do you craft a subplot that’s relevant to the main plot without overpowering it? Let’s explore the subplot.
ARTICLE
What is Subplot?
What is a subplot, and what is its purpose? A subplot is a secondary storyline that runs parallel to the main plot and is interwoven with it. Its purpose is to add layers, complexity, and depth to the story, further character development, intensify conflict and stakes, and provide contrast in tone and events. A subplot can also be used to mirror or underline the theme of the main plot, set up the main plot, or function as an obstacle or complication for the protagonist.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deeper into the world of subplots, exploring their various formats and functions, and how to craft a compelling subplot that enriches the main plot. Note: This post is alive and constantly added to and revised the more I learn about the topic, your input is also always very welcome.
The Functions of Subplots
In his book “Anatomy of Story” John Truby writes that a subplot must affect the hero’s main plot. If the subplot doesn’t serve the main plot, what you have isn’t a subplot but two main plots happening simultaneously and therefore competing with each other. So the following are a few examples of how the subplot could affect the main plot:
- Used to set up the main plot or certain elements of it and underline the drama
- Mirroring: Show us what the threat can do/what the problem is (Example: IT FOLLOWS, Opening Girl gets killed is a subplot used to show us how dangerous the creature is), can function as a lesson for the protagonist to learn to avoid disaster themselves
- Used as further complication/obstacle the character has to deal with (to add drama, suspense, and/or stakes)
- A secondary character makes matters worse for the protagonist
- Setting up relationships and adding stakes: Romantic subplot for example
- Providing additional information about the characters: The subplot can explore a character’s backstory or show their personal life, which can help the audience understand the character better.
- Contradict theme/moral argument of the main plot
- Where a character deals with the problem of the main plot in a different way with a different outcome (good or bad)
- Underline the theme/moral argument of the main plot by showing variations of the theme and underlining the overall message.
- Offering a counterpoint to the main plot: The subplot can contrast with the main plot, providing a different perspective or tone.
Providing relief from the tension of the main plot: The subplot can offer a moment of relief from the main story’s tension or provide comic relief.
The Storytelling Effects of Subplots
Subplots have a profound impact on the narrative structure of a story. They add layers and depth to the main plot, intensify conflict and stakes, and provide contrast in tone and events. Subplots can also intentionally overwhelm readers to hide in plain sight in mysteries, adding complexity and creating a more engaging reading experience.
The Formats of Subplots
- Isolated subplot: where the entire subplot happens in one flow without interruption
- Horror Movie Opening
- Parallel: happens simultaneously as the main plot (the main plot starts first and subplot starts soon after)
- Combining Main Plot and Sub Plot: Here it starts out like the Parallel but then the main and subplot flow into each other and become one
- In and Out: Where the protagonists’ main plotline checks in and out into various surrounding subplots
- Forgotten Subplot: Here a subplot element is introduced within the main plot event but only gets resolved towards the end of the book (needs to be clear that done so intentionally)
Watch Out For These Common Subplot Mistakes
While subplots can enrich your story, here are some common mistakes to avoid or things to consider:
- The main plot & subplots never connect and have no effect on each other / any thematic connection
- Subplot is more investing & gets more focus than main plot (subplot protagonist is more engaging than the actual protagonist)
- Subplot can have a different narration/POV than the main plot
- The crisis point and climax of the subplot should not come after the main plots because it draws away from the resolution (exception can be romantic subplots)
- Subplot needs to support main plot, not to overpower or compete
- Subplots need to have a narrative arc
- Subplots are also character-driven
Crafting a Compelling Subplot
Crafting a compelling subplot that’s relevant to the main plot can be challenging. Start by identifying the main plot’s themes, conflict, and stakes. Then, choose a subplot that complements or contrasts the main plot, and make sure it has a narrative arc and serves a purpose. Finally, integrate the subplot seamlessly into the main plot, making sure it doesn’t overpower or compete with it.