 Action/Adventure: October 21, 2009 Issue [#3325] |
  Action/Adventure
This week: Edited by: StephBee  
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I'm back in another guest editor spot for the Action/Adventure Newsletter. Thanks to everyone who has been writing in. I've gotten some great feedback on quest vs adventure plots.
This week we'll take a look at a pure action plot - The Chase. |
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The Chase is another plot pattern that has weathered the test of time, and while old, remember it's what you, the author, bring to the story in the way of characters, voice, and style which make it original.
One of the most best known Chase stories is "The Fugtive." In it's latest incarnation, Tommy Lee Jones and Harrison Ford were in the staring roles.
The Chase is a very action driven plot. There's the threat, chase, and finally relief. There are 2 sides to the chase - the chaser and the chasee.
To give these characters rooting value, you have to pick a side (or point of view narration) and tell it. If you want the reader to root for the chasee, you have to let them know the right person has gotten away. If you want the reader on the side of the chaser, you have to impart a sense of justice that the chaser (the good guy) is pursing the bad guy.
Keep these plot points in mind as you craft your story:
#1 - The person on the run has to have a STRONG reason.
#2 - The chaser must have a duty or an obsession (or both) to go after the chasee.
#3 - Usually the chase is based on a big misunderstanding.
When you structure your story, you want to open with sympathy for your lead character, but don't stack the sympathy deck too high. Work in realistic, believable flaws so your characters are human, too.
Have fun with your next Action/Adventure! 
FEEDBACK: Does the movie, "The Thomas Crown Affair," embody the chase plot pattern? Why or why not? Which verison do you like better? The Steve McQueen one or the Pierce Bronson one?
Reference for this newsletter: Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell, 2004, F&W Publications.
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Here are a few adventures I found around the site:
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Have an opinion on what you've read here today? Then send the Editor feedback! Find an item that you think would be perfect for showcasing here? Submit it for consideration in the newsletter!
https://www.Writing.Com/go/nl_form
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Here's some feedback from my last newsletter, 9 SEP 2009, which took a look at quest vs adventure plots:
NickiD89 
Hi Steph, Great newletter! I'm a huge Harry Potter fan, having read the series twice and seen all six movies. Although Harry goes on adventures in each installment, I think the overall plot pattern would fit neater into the category of quest. I agree! Harry shoulders the responsibility of bringing down Voldemort. He recognizes he is connected to the Dark Lord in many ways, beginning with the scar that burns every time Voldemort experiences a strong feeling -- the same scar he got when Voldemort tried to kill him as a baby and failed. As Harry searches for ways to stop Voldemort's rise to power, Harry is in constant battle with himself and his fear that his connection with Voldemort makes Harry an ally rather than an enemy. This internal battle for good over evil drives Harry in his quests to fulfill the prophecies and end Voldemort's reign of terror. I'll add that within this plot framework, there is plenty of action/adventure. The sub-plot of the House Quiddich teams vying for the coveted House Cup each year, for example, comes immediately to mind.
((Hugs)) Nicki
Nicki, I love Harry Potter, too and I've got all the books. I have to agree - the Harry Potter series is more of a quest, (at least to me) but there are plenty of adventures along the way. What I LOVE about Rowling is that the adventures have a purpose, a meaning and all play into the ultimate quest that Harry has to make! Great reply, Nicki! You've got a Merit Badge coming your way!
Quick-Quill 
Thank for your Newsletter. If I get this correctly, books about the early settlers going West,would be A/A as they are looking for a new life and new opportunities, while the early goldrush miner stories would then be considered a "quest," to get gold.
In answer to your feed back: They would be a "Quest" as each one has something that must be found in order for Harry to overcome Voldemort. If the story was about Hermine or Ron it might be an A/A as they are along for the ride so to speak. Or am I way off base? I think you're on base here.
I love this newsletter. Any time you feel the urge to make this a more detailed piece with deeper examples and fuller explantions, let me know; it is one I really would be interested in reading.
Thanks so much for your feedback. I could definately do a newsletter all by itself on Harry Potter and the difference between quest and an adventure plot. We'll see. Right now I'm just a guest editor. If I get another spot here, I'll see what I can do.
Bluesman 
Personally I think HP is a quest plot that ends up in adventure. They are seeking something, someone, somehow and some adventure gets in the way that causes all H___ to break loose until it's solved.
Nice article this week... keep it going if you get too!
Thanks so much for the feedback. Ultimately, I do think it's a quest because Harry learns alot about himself along the way - he learns his strengths, his weaknesses and then he has to channel that to defeat Voldemort. I do think there's plenty of adventure along the way, though. Rowling makes her adventures very fun. I'm glad you like the newsletter. I like writing action/adventure myself. You guys have given me such a warm welcome, I'll see about going full time - if you really want me.
faithjourney
Thanks for featuring "Battle Lines" in the Action/Adventure newsletter!
You're welcome.
drjim
Hey Steph - great Newsletter this! My first foray into the 'Action/Adventure' genre, no less! Was also quite impressed that an Editor would take a moment to put together some decent info on PLOT - the 'salt and pepper' in the recipes of writing. A MUST! Look forward to your next endeavors!
Thanks for the warm welcome. I agree PLOT is the salt & pepper of a story. Understand plots and patterns, helps you put together the best story you can.
StephBee is a 911 Dispatcher for LAPD. Her book, "Destination: Berlin" was published with IUniverse. 5 Stars, Midwest Book Review. She is a full time editor of WDC's Drama Newsletter.
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