S16:E7: How to Use Antagonists in Your Story: The Right Way and the Wrong Way

Learn how to use antagonists to create unforgettable plots. Strengthen narratives and build your characters' journey with this skill.

[@Maazzzo]

"*Goals create antagonists.*" K.M., in THREE words, you've managed to punch through and pinpoint exactly what was wrong with my story, and tell me how to fix it. I have been re-writing this story for almost 3 YEARS, and couldn't figure out where it was going wrong. I have paid editors and professional writers to help. No one could pinpoint what went wrong, they were too busy trying to re-write my story to fit their narratives. No one has ever said this sentence to me, I've never read it. I've seen paragraphs that almost say it, no one has ever just given me those three words. THANK YOU.😭

[@skyillegaldiver8962]

Such well analyzed application of theory. It’s obvious that a great deal of work has gone into this. So very clear. So immediately applicable. Almost Racine of her lessons can be regarded as classic.

[@paramedicchrisbookseries]

Thank you for this, really helpful.

[@NimranaMaritime]

Can the antagonist be your own mind instead of a physical person or event?

[@KMWeilandAuthor]

Human vs. Self is a time-honored storyform, so there's nothing wrong with writing a book that centers primarily around a character's inner conflict. However, that conflict will almost always manifest in the outer world as well. The best way to think of conflict is as a series of related obstacles that prevent the character from reaching the overall goal until the end of the story. The best way to think of an antagonistic force is as whoever or whatever is presenting those obstacles. (The antagonistic force's moral alignment within the story is irrelevant as far as the foundational conflict goes.) Take a look at what is consistently standing between your character and her goals throughout the story. Whatever you find, that's your primary antagonistic force.

[@NimranaMaritime]

Thanks so much! You make it succinctly crystal clear. My protagonist is haunted by his inherent weakness that keeps hijacking him from journey to achieve his goal. Right till the end when everything seems lost, miracles start to happen. As this will be my first novel, it would be an honour if someone like you could review my manuscript when completed. Thanks once again for your expert advice.