Here's a breakdown of what a complication does:
* Introduces conflict: It creates tension and stakes for the protagonist.
* Forces the protagonist into action: They are forced to confront the complication and make choices.
* Drives the plot: It sets the stage for the rising action and the climax of the story.
Think of it like this:
* Exposition: The beginning of the story, where we learn about the characters and their world.
* Complication: The turning point, where everything changes.
* Rising action: The events that build up to the climax.
* Climax: The highest point of tension and action in the story.
* Falling action: The events that follow the climax and lead to the resolution.
* Resolution: The ending of the story, where the conflict is resolved.
Here are some examples of complications in stories:
* A murder mystery: The victim is found dead, which forces the detective to investigate.
* A romantic comedy: The two main characters are forced to work together, which leads to them falling in love.
* A fantasy novel: The evil wizard returns, which forces the heroes to band together to defeat him.
The complication is essential for a good story:
* It makes the story interesting and engaging.
* It gives the protagonist a reason to grow and change.
* It provides a sense of purpose and stakes for the reader.
So, when you're reading or writing a story, pay attention to the complication. It's the heart of the narrative!