The Role of Storms in Fiction
When it comes to writing fiction, storms can play an important role in a plot. Storms can be used to create suspense, create tension, and add drama to a story. Storms can also be used to set the stage for a dramatic climax or resolution to a plot. Storms can also be a metaphor for the emotional state of characters and for the challenges they are facing.
Storms can be used to create a sense of foreboding and dread. Think of the storm that rages outside the castle in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The storm is a metaphor for the chaos and turmoil that is going on inside the castle as Macbeth’s power and ambition spiral out of control.
In Herman Melville’s Moby Dick, a storm is used to represent the power of nature and the steadfastness of Ahab’s pursuit of revenge against the white whale. The storm is a metaphor for the raging emotions that are driving Ahab. The storm is also used to create suspense in the story as the characters battle the storm and the sea.
Storms and Conflict
Storms can also be used to create conflict and drama in a story. In Bram Stoker’s Dracula, a raging storm is used to create tension as the characters attempt to get to safety before the storm hits. The storm serves as a symbol of the chaos and danger that the characters are facing.
In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, a powerful storm serves as an omen of the conflict that is to come. The storm is a metaphor for the chaos and upheaval that is going on in the town and in the lives of the characters.
Storms and Symbolism
Storms can also be used as a symbol of change in a story. In Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, a powerful storm serves as a symbol of the changes that are occurring in the characters’ lives. The storm is a metaphor for the transformation of the creature from a peaceful being into a monster.
In J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, a powerful storm serves as a symbol of the end of an era. The storm is a metaphor for the destruction of the old world and the beginning of a new age.
Storms and Resolution
Storms can also be used to resolve conflicts in a story. In William Golding’s Lord of the Flies, a powerful storm serves as the climax of the story. The storm is a metaphor for the destruction of the boys’ civilization and the beginning of a new order.
In H.G. Wells’ The War of the Worlds, a powerful storm serves as the resolution of the story. The storm is a metaphor for the destruction of the aliens and the restoration of peace and order on Earth.
Conclusion
As these examples demonstrate, storms can play an important role in a plot. Storms can be used to create suspense, create tension, add drama, and serve as a metaphor for the challenges characters are facing. They can also be used to create conflict and symbolize change. Finally, they can be used to resolve conflicts and bring about a resolution. By understanding the role that storms can play in a story, authors can create a compelling and powerful plot.
References
Macbeth. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2023, from https://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/macbeth/
Moby-Dick. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2023, from https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/mobydick/
Dracula. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2023, from https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/dracula/
To Kill a Mockingbird. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2023, from https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/tokill/
Frankenstein. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2023, from https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/frankenstein/
The Lord of the Rings. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2023, from https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/lord/
Lord of the Flies. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2023, from https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/flies/
The War of the Worlds. (n.d.). Retrieved May 17, 2023, from https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/warworlds/
