PattiIn fiction, establishing clear stakes is a crucial element in crafting a compelling and emotionally engaging story. Readers need to understand what your characters are fighting for—whether it’s emotional fulfillment, physical survival, or something more existential like their place in the world. The higher and clearer the stakes, the more readers will invest in the outcome, and the more relatable the characters become.
Why Stakes Matter
Stakes create urgency and tension. When characters are at risk of losing something important, it heightens the emotional investment of both the character and the reader. Readers want to know what’s at stake for the protagonist, whether it’s their life, their relationships, or their inner peace. These stakes drive the narrative forward and give the protagonist a reason to act.
Consider a story where a character’s only challenge is trivial, such as whether they’ll get their morning coffee. Without significant stakes, the narrative becomes dull and unmotivating. Now, imagine the stakes are raised—perhaps the character has to choose between attending a life-changing job interview or helping a loved one in crisis. The character’s decisions suddenly carry weight, and the reader is drawn into the tension and drama.
Types of Stakes
There are three main types of stakes to consider: emotional, physical, and existential.
1. Emotional Stakes: These deal with a character’s inner world. Perhaps they risk losing the love of their life, failing to protect their family, or confronting a personal failure. Emotional stakes resonate deeply with readers because they reflect human desires and fears. They make the character’s journey personal and relatable.
2. Physical Stakes: Physical stakes are more tangible and often involve life-or-death scenarios. Action-packed stories like thrillers or adventure novels rely heavily on these stakes. The protagonist might be fighting to survive a dangerous situation or protect others from harm. These stakes raise the tension and pace of the story, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
3. Existential Stakes: These stakes affect the character’s identity, purpose, or worldview. The character may be facing the loss of who they are or struggling to find their place in the world. Stories with existential stakes tend to be deeply philosophical, exploring themes like self-worth or the meaning of life.
Keeping Stakes High
For stakes to resonate, they must be *high* and *clear*. If the protagonist doesn’t seem to care about the outcome, neither will the reader. The consequences of failure should be dire enough that success feels necessary and compelling. By clearly establishing what’s at risk, you not only make your story more engaging, but you also give readers a reason to root for your characters to succeed.
In short, clear and high stakes are what keep readers invested in the outcome, driving the emotional connection and tension that makes fiction unforgettable.
Happy Writing!
Patti
