In the rollercoaster ride that is writing a novel, you sometimes have to make tough decisions about your story arcs. Recently, I found myself revisiting an argument between two characters about some unresolved issues. Originally, this was a core subplot, full of drama and tension, but in the latest draft, it’s only mentioned in passing.
The Reality of Unresolved Conflicts
Why, you ask? Well, I think there’s something incredibly real about not resolving everything. Sometimes life is like that. We simply have to bottle it up and move on. Not every conflict gets tied up with a neat little bow. Some things just linger, like the mystery of where all those missing socks go.
The Temptation to Resolve Everything
As writers, there’s a strong temptation to resolve every conflict and answer every question. It’s satisfying to see everything come full circle. But let’s face it, life doesn’t always work that way. Unresolved issues can add depth and realism to your story. They mirror the complexity of real-life relationships where not every argument has a clear resolution.
The Argument That Wasn't
In my book, the argument between these two characters was intense, charged with unresolved issues that simmered just beneath the surface. It was the kind of argument where you expect a resolution, a dramatic showdown. But instead, I chose to let it fizzle out, only hinting at the underlying tension.
Bottling It Up
Sometimes, bottling it up and moving on is the only option. We’ve all been there. Maybe it’s a disagreement with a friend that never gets fully addressed, or a family dispute that everyone pretends didn’t happen. By reflecting this in fiction, we capture a slice of real life that readers can relate to.
The Beauty of Ambiguity
Leaving some things unsaid can be powerful. It creates a sense of mystery and keeps readers engaged, wondering what might happen next. It’s like the end of a season in your favorite TV show, where not all plot lines are resolved, leaving you eagerly awaiting the next season.
In the end, not resolving every subplot or argument can add a layer of authenticity to your story. It reminds readers that life is messy and complex, and that’s okay. So, next time you’re tempted to resolve every conflict in your writing, consider leaving a few loose ends. Embrace the beauty of ambiguity and the reality of unresolved issues. After all, some things are better left unsaid.