Hi! I’m wondering how the “Impossible Thing” is managed when writing a series. Which of these options would be best?
- An impossible thing per book
- A singular impossible thing that is achieved at the end of the series
- An overarching impossible thing with smaller ones that are achieved per book
I hope that makes sense!
With the plot I have now, it’s looking like the series would have two impossible things; one for the little world and one for the big world. Is that okay? Should they relate? If so, how much?
Great question! It sounds like you’re on the right track.
In a series, each book should have its own “Impossible Thing.”
Typically in a series, the Protagonist will resolve the Big World external conflict over the course of many books. You could say that the BWEC is the “Driving Conflict” of the series, but then each book will have its own “Driving Conflict” that is probably related to the Little World and the protagonist’s Impossible Thing for that book.
Just like with a single book, stronger (or more ironic) relationships between the Little World conflicts and the Big World conflicts will give the story more power. The more you can develop those relationships, the better.
In each book, the Little World conflicts may change, but the Big World conflict will remain roughly the same.
If it’s helpful to think of it in terms of the Big World having an Impossible Thing that will happen over the course of the series, I think that mindset will serve you well. 🙂
Thank you so much, that’s very helpful! 🙂