What is a Plot Device?
Have you ever wondered, "What is a plot device?" And why do some stories keep you turning page after page, eager to see what happens next? Good stories aren't engaging by accident—they use special tools called "plot devices" to maintain your interest. But what exactly is a plot device?
You may be asking yourself right now, "what is a plot device?" A plot device is something writers use to add excitement, suspense, or drama to a story. It can be anything—an intriguing piece of technology, an unexpected event, or even a difficult challenge. These elements help push the story forward and keep readers invested. Let's take a look.
Imagine you're reading a story about two friends searching for a lost device that holds powerful and mysterious technology. This unique artifact is a plot device because it motivates the friends to undertake a grand adventure. Without it, they wouldn't have a reason to explore new places, face challenges, or take risks.
What is it about a plot device that makes it matter so much? They create situations that characters must react to, mysteries they need to solve, and conflicts they must overcome. This drives the plot forward, keeping the reader wondering what will happen next. Without these devices, a story might quickly become dull or uninteresting.
So, what is a plot device, and how can it be used effectively?
A well-crafted plot device, one which emerges naturally from the setting or characters is often not only accepted, but welcomed by the reader.
Plot devices can appear in many forms. Let's explore some common examples:
- Technological Gadgets: Sometimes, a plot device might be advanced technology, such as a powerful computer or a hidden surveillance tool. These gadgets can help characters overcome obstacles or spark unexpected journeys.
- Characters Themselves: A new character entering the narrative can be a significant plot device. This person might introduce conflicts, help solve crucial problems, or reveal hidden truths.
- Unexpected Situations: Sudden events, like a natural disaster or an unforeseen discovery, can drastically change the direction of the story. These events keep readers guessing and make the plot more engaging.
- Goals and Ambitions: Sometimes, plot devices are less tangible. Characters might have specific goals or ambitions, such as winning a championship, uncovering a mystery, or protecting someone they care about. These ambitions drive characters forward, make them more relatable, and keep readers turning the page.
Writers must use plot devices carefully. If a device feels overly convenient, unrealistic, or repetitive, readers might lose interest. Have you ever read a story and thought, "That seems too easy or predictable"? This often happens when a plot device isn’t integrated naturally into the story. Good plot devices should feel authentic and believable.
MacGuffin: No, the MacGuffin is not a cute, furry, little plot device, sitting on a toadstool, surrounded by butterflies and lightning bugs.
A MacGuffin is an object or goal that all characters seek, even though it may not be important by itself. If an author is wondering what to use for a MacGuffin, that author doesn’t need to look any further than his or her own imagination.
The MacGuffin is not important because of what it is. The MacGuffin is important because of what the author makes it to the characters in the story. It can be anything which creates a clear goal for the characters, even if it is not the focus of the story. For example, imagine a story where everyone is chasing after an encrypted flash drive. The contents of the flash drive might not even matter—the important thing is that everyone wants it, creating tension and excitement throughout the story.
As long as it sets the story in motion, and provides the reader something with which to attach interest, anything can be an effective MacGuffin. In Blueprints of Destruction, Book One, the MacGuffin is the Barge. Interestingly, at the onset, PhranqenLu was not sure what the purpose of the Barge was, what would happen to it by the end of the story, or who would be responsible for its fate. It was through the Random-Generated-Plot Device (RGPD) that the MacGuffin was developed and fated, and through the RGPD that the character arcs of several established characters were developed.
Next time you read or write, keep an eye out for plot devices. Consider what’s driving the story forward, what characters are striving for, and how different devices shape the narrative. Recognizing and understanding these elements will enrich your appreciation for storytelling and maybe even inspire your creativity.
Besides, the next time someone asks, "What is a plot device," you will not only be able to answer them, but you will even be able to point out specifics. But more importantly, you will be able to effectively use them in your own stories!