|
|
IWW
Practice-W Exercise Archives
Exercise: My Way or the Highway (Version 3)
These exercises were written
by IWW members
and administrators to provide structured practice opportunities for its
members.
You are welcome to use them for practice as well. Please mention that
you found
them at the Internet Writers Workshop
(http://www.internetwritingwor
kshop.org/).
Prepared by: Rheal Nadeau
Posted on: 16 Dec 2001
Reposted on: 5 Dec 2004
Reposted, revised, on: 1 Oct 2006
Reposted on: 28 Oct 2007
Reposted, revised, on 25 Jan 2009
Reposted on July 3, 2011
-------------------------
Exercise: In 300 to 500 words, pit two or more characters against each
other in some sort of conflict. Make each character's motivation
clear. Avoid outright exposition: show the conflict, don't tell
us about it.
-------------------------
Differing opinions can draw two individuals into verbal confrontation
on any number of topics: politics, school affiliation, even a teen
arguing against curfew.
Each character must act for plausible reasons, based on valid
motivations; each must have his or her own goals, aspirations, or
fears. It is not necessary to resolve the conflict; submissions here
are not meant to be full stories.
-------------------------
Exercise: In 300 to 500 words, pit two or more characters against each
other in some sort of conflict. Make each character's motivation
clear. Avoid outright exposition: show the conflict, don't tell
us about it.
-------------------------
When you critique, pay attention to the character motivations. Are they
credible? Too obvious, or too subtle? Remember--a good critique is
specific, not general.
Web site created by
Rhéal Nadeau and
the administrators of the Internet Writing Workshop.
Modified by Gayle Surrette.
| | |