Do you feel like your story is missing something? Does it feel flat, despite having a strong protagonist and an interesting premise? The story may have missed one important element. Layers.
One of the most effective ways to add layers to your story is by implementing subplots. A subplot is a secondary storyline in addition to your central plot. Subplots can revolve around characters other than the protagonist and may even have different conflicts, but they remain connected to the overall story. Whether it involves a complicated friendship or a love interest, subplots help your story feel full.
In this guide, we will explore what a subplot is and how to write one.
What Are Subplots?
A subplot is a smaller storyline that supports the main plot. It is not the central conflict of the story, but it still needs to serve the narrative. A subplot can focus on a side character, reveal more about the protagonist’s past, or raise the stakes. Subplots have a beginning, middle, and end. With this in mind, developing a strong subplot is important for a strong story.
Why Use Subplots?
There are several ways subplots can improve your story. Here are some reasons to consider:
- Subplots allow you to write secondary storylines featuring side characters or explore the protagonist’s past. In this way, you can create round characters with different sides to them.
- Subplots can give characters space to grow in a relationship, whether it is platonic or romantic.
- A subplot can reflect the central conflict or show the complete opposite. Therefore, it offers a new perspective to the narrative.
- When the main plot slows down, the subplot can keep readers engaged. In this particular context, maintain pace.
- You can explore the theme of your story. Subplots offer opportunities to convey the central message through multiple storylines.
Types of Subplot to Use in Your Writing
Once you understand the purpose of subplots. The next step is to write one, but before you can do that. Here are a few options to explore.
Romantic Subplot
Many genres do not necessarily revolve around romance, but they often incorporate some romantic elements. If you want to introduce a love interest in your story, then choose a romance-focused subplot.
Relationship Focused Subplots
Storylines featuring friends or family can be as interesting as a romantic one. You can write the heartbreak of losing a friend, or a complicated daughter and mother relationship.
A Parallel Subplot
A minor plot that is similar to the main storyline. It can reveal different aspects of the same conflict or a different outcome of a similar event. It can be useful to show growth and character development. It can even be useful in an antagonist arc.
Character Focused Subplot
Another one is a plotline that centers around a side character. We get an inside on their life and backstory. It is a great way to uncover a character’s hidden past and further develop their arc. Consider giving a redemption arc to a previously villainous or antagonistic character.
How Theme Connects Subplot to Main Plot
While subplots may involve other characters or have different conflicts, they should never be random. One of the best ways to ensure the subplot supports your narrative is to use the theme as a connecting thread.
Your theme is the message you want to deliver or the idea that you explore. For example:
- Forgive and forget.
- Love vs hate.
- It’s not about the destination, it’s the journey.
When your subplot explores the theme in different contexts, it can give a deeper meaning and have a longer-lasting emotional impact on the readers.
Before developing your subplot, ask yourself the following question: Does this subplot explore or challenge the same theme as my main plot?
If the answer is yes, then you have a strong foundation.
Subplot in Action: Example from The Cruel Prince
Let us look at how The Cruel Prince, written by Holly Black, is a layered novel.
Main plot:
Jude Duarte, a mortal girl, lives in the Faerie. She wants to gain power and respect among the fae, especially from those who see her as weak and inferior. The central conflict revolves around Jude’s struggle to find a place in the high court and how desperate she is for power.
Subplot:
In addition to Jude’s struggle to find a fit in Faerie, she has a complicated relationship with her sister. Taryn is also mortal, but unlike Jude, she wants to blend in, follow the rules, and marry into the fae court. Their subplot explores sibling loyalty, betrayal, and how different people respond to the same environment.
How it supports the main plot:
The subplot escalates the conflict and raises the stakes. Taryn’s choices directly affect Jude’s position at court. When Taryn hides secrets and chooses her ambition over Jude’s trust, the betrayal reinforces the main theme. It is also a parallel subplot. It shows how alike, but different, Jude and Taryn are. Which can be interesting to explore.
How to Create a Subplot
Creating a subplot can be a large task and feel overwhelming at first. It helps to break it into smaller steps.
Step One: Identify Your Main Plot
Before adding a subplot, you need to have a clear idea of what your story is mainly about. Have a clear story plan before moving on to subplots.
Step Two: Determine the Purpose of the Subplot
Subplot is similar to a normal plot. You need a beginning, middle, and end. You will also need a meaningful story to tell. Ask yourself: What is the purpose of this? How does it serve the plot?
Step Three: Choose a Character in Focus
Are we focusing on the protagonist or a supporting character? Make sure to choose a character that has goals and conflict of their own.
Step Four: Develop a Clear Conflict
As I said earlier. A subplot is like a mini-story. It needs a clear conflict. What does the character want? What is standing in their way? What is at stake?
Step Five: Connect the Subplot to the Main Plot
The subplot should affect the main storyline and the protagonist’s journey. Either by adding a double meaning, or affecting what is at stake. You can do that by remembering to base it on the theme.
Step Six: Implement the Storyline
Once you have everything listed and ready. Spread the secondary storyline throughout the story. When does the subplot start, and when does it end? A friendly advice, you can use a story structure to map out.
Bringing It All Together
Subplot adds layers to the narrative. It can give us insight into the lives and pasts of other characters. As well as give us mini-stories within the main story.
Choose a subplot wisely, it can have a huge impact on the outcome of your novel. It is not just an extra connection; it is an opportunity to explore the theme in greater depth. Do not waste it.
