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It’s part five of my year-long series to help you get your novel finished this year, and this month we’re talking about subplots.
You know, I’m sure, that subplots should be integral to your main plot, not just an extra side story that has no bearing on anything else in your novel – but what does that mean? How do you make sure a subplot is integral enough, without it just being… the main plot?
Subplots are vital because they prevent your novel feeling one note. If your whole novel is just your central main plot, every single scene will be moving us towards one goal, which can feel a bit monotonous. And it feels overly simplistic and unrealistic – actually we all have deeply complex lives and many things going on that do not necessarily all fit together. Your characters should be the same…
…except, of course, that this is a novel, and so your subplots, even if they feel separate, are actually going to be deeply connected to your main story.
If they’re not connected – they’re not integral – then for your reader things are going to feel piecemeal. The subplot will feel like a distraction keeping them from the main story (which, of course, is deeply compelling because you have woven in enough stakes and tension). Your reader must be able to see how your subplot is going to fit in, or at least be given enough breadcrumbs to be able to trust that it will.
Ideally, we then also want an ohhhhh! moment where said subplot is revealed to be entirely and absolutely vital to the main plot.
Read on for a quick checklist you can use to tell if your subplot isn’t integral enough, some examples of successful subplots and why they’re successful, and how to work through your own plot and make sure your subplots are pulling their weight.
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