We all know without conflict, there is no story. Romance writers can use two types of conflict--internal and external. I tend to go with the external. Something or someone trying to keep the couple apart. Most writers go the route where differences in the characters' pasts, outlooks on issues, and their varying ways of reacting to problems are just a few examples of internal conflict on the way to their black moment.
But all conflict isn't bad.
It certainly isn't always an argument. And thank goodness for that. Conflict is anything that keeps the heroine or hero from attaining his/her goal. Linda wants to fly from Chicago to New York to witness the birth of her first grandchild. Thanks to a huge snow storm, all the flights are cancelled out of O'Hare. Getting to her daughter's bedside becomes her conflict. She catches a ride with a truck driver. He could have a great sense of humor, be going through a rough marital patch where Linda can advise him, or be an eight-handed Romeo.
Writing romance helped me realize some things about myself. For one, I don't handle real-life conflict well. Writing about it can put me in a bit of a depression. Another issue I have is either a pale gray dark moment or an over-the-top deep purple one that can make a reader roll her eyes and mumble, "For pity's sake!"
But life isn't always grand in romance--or in reality. As I write this, I'm watching a nurse clean Calvin. He went into a rehab facility on Sunday and this morning had a small stroke. He can't speak clearly; he mumbles and jerks his chin around to communicate. He can't raise his right arm. The doctor hopes these things are temporary. For a retired English teacher and radio announcer, back in the day, not being able to talk is doubly frustrating.
He can't say my name, but when I ask him if I'm his sweetest angel, his love shines in his eyes and in the small smile he can still make.
I'm supposed to be writing, but I have too many irons in the fire right now. I get our taxes done tomorrow. Someone baked into my rental car Allstate arranged while ours is being repaired. And a lens popped out of my glasses.
Life happens and it "ain't" always grand.
Follow me on www.vonniedavis.com and stay well.
10 comments:
We all know what an amazing woman you are, Vonnie. But even in the middle of a crisis, you inspire us with your words, your story of real love. My prayers continue for you and Calvin, for his full and speedy recovery, for your comfort and peace.
And yet with all that, you manage to get the words out. As Leah said, you are one strong and amazing woman. Small comfort, I know, for what you are going through. You and Calvin are two very special people who have inspired so many. Sending you both prayers and positive energy. As the doctor said, this is, hopefully, only temporary.
My heart hurts for you, Vonnie. I'm hoping Calvin turns a corner in the right direction soon. You're also right about having either too much or too little conflict in a book being a problem. I try to use external conflict for my suspense plot and internal conflict for my romance plot, weaving the two together into something cohesive. Getting the balance right isn't always easy.
Vonnie, aging with its attendant health issues presents the biggest real-life conflict of all. How do we look aging/death in the face pragmatically and with grace? This is my conundrum. I read a review of Barbara Erenrich's new book, Natural Causes. Here's the review. https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/10/books/review-natural-causes-barbara-ehrenreich.html She's ticked off that modern life does nothing to prepare us for this struggle. She's 76 and feisty about it...reminds me of you, Vonnie. You have much to teach us about keeping your humor and your passion for the people you care about. Our hearts go out to you and Calvin.
Let me go on record as saying I hate conflict. I avoid it whenever possible in real life and have to force myself to put enough into my stories to keep readers interested. What you and Calvin are going through breaks my heart, and then for life to keep piling on...unconscionable. OG keeps telling me he's doing everything he can to stay in the best shape possible, and I know he is, but the truth is, we don't get to choose. All we can do is make the best of situations out of our control, and you always do. Big hugs to both of you from both of us.
Vonnie, I'm keeping both you and Calvin in my thoughts and prayers.
You have a lot of thoughts and prayers your way. Your attitude and you love will serve you.
I'm so sorry, Vonnie. I can't imagine how difficult this must be for you. You are indeed an strong and amazing woman. Will keep you in my prayers.
Vonnie, my heart and prayers are with you and Calvin. As others said, you are a strong woman, esp. in difficult times. I hope Calvin is on the road to recovery.
Please add my thoughts and prayers to those flowing to you and Calvin. You are so lucky you found each other. You are both rare people who deserve love and happiness. Namaste
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