Conflict Vs. Complication

This is a big issue with me. I am often finding authors who have a great voice, but the story just falls flat for the simple reason that there is not conflict in the story. Yes, the author truly believes there is conflict, but it is far from it. I want to take the time today to talk briefly about the difference between conflict and complication. 

First of all, we have to understand that it is the conflict that drives the story. Both internally and externally, it is the conflict the characters(s) have to overcome to get to that resolution. The entire life of the book depends on the characters figuring out a solution to what might seem to be an impossible barrier to overcome. According to a quick definition from the internet...

In literature, a conflict is a literary device characterized by a struggle between two opposing forces. Conflict provides crucial tension in any story and is used to drive the narrative forward.

As I said, the conflict is both internal and external. The internal conflict is that element in the character's persona that is really preventing that character from moving forward in their journey. It may be an attitude change or something that happened in the past. Regardless of where it comes from, the character is going to have to give something up to be successful. Think of it as a personal sacrifice. We all face this as humans. Consider this example.

You know you have to go to the gym, but have created numerous reasons why you cannot go there. It may be work, family, etc. It doesn't matter. But, if you truly want to reach that next step of going to the gym, you have to be willing to sacrifice something. Maybe it is going to the gym early BEFORE work and coffee (ugh, that is a big one). Maybe it is telling your family that dinner will now be bumped back an hour because you want to make this happen. It doesn't matter. It all comes down to an attitude decision. 

It is also that inner conflict from multiple characters that is going to get in the way of any forward progress. The conflicts of the two characters are going to get in the way of each other. Again, someone is going to have to make a change and give something up. It might be a decision to move to a new job, or to take a promotion, or starting a new project. Something has to give. 

Now let's talk about external conflict. These are those forces that are outside of the immediate control of the characters. It is that challenge they have to overcome. In classic literature we are talking about things such as man vs. nature. Through problem solving, they find the solution on their own. The key is that it is the character who does this. Divine intervention such as a sudden surprise uncle leaving a ton of money in a will to fix the financial issues of the hero is not the solution we are looking for here.

On the opposing side, we have a complication. This is a small road bump. Someone overhears a conversation and misinterprets the message. Not a conflict. This can be solved by simply asking the person. When a hero and heroine in a romance novel just need to say it is OK to have a relationship is a complication, NOT a conflict.

If you hear authors talking about raising the stakes in the conflict, we are not talking about making more complications, but making that conflict much harder for the characters to solve.

So, if you want me to really consider your story, make sure you have a real conflict in the story and make it a good one.