How Contrived Plots Hurt Your Story's Credibility: What Writers Need to Know

Have you ever been engrossed in a book or movie, only to be jolted out of the experience by a plot twist that feels too convenient or forced? That's the impact of contrivance in storytelling. Let's explore how contrived plots can hurt your story's credibility and what you can do to keep your narrative believable and engaging.

What is Plot Contrivance?
Plot contrivance happens when events in a story feel artificial or overly convenient. These moments can break the immersion for readers, making them feel like the author is manipulating the story rather than letting it unfold naturally.

For example, imagine a detective struggling to solve a case for months. Suddenly, they find a crucial clue conveniently overlooked until the final act. It feels forced, right? That's a classic contrivance issue.

Why Contrivance Hurts Your Narrative
Contrived plot points can ruin the credibility of your narrative. Readers invest in your story because they believe in the world and the characters you've created. When something feels too convenient, it shatters that belief and pulls them out of the experience.

I once read a thriller in which the protagonist always had exactly what they needed, precisely when they needed it. Need a lockpick? Oh, there's one right in the drawer! This made the story feel predictable and unrealistic, which ultimately lessened my enjoyment.

How to Avoid Plot Contrivance

1. Develop a Strong Plot Outline
Before you start writing, outline your plot thoroughly. Ensure every twist and turn is well thought out and logical within the story's context. This helps prevent those "too convenient" moments.

2. Character-Driven Solutions
Let your characters solve problems in ways that align with their skills and personalities. If a solution feels too easy, reconsider it. Characters overcoming challenges through their abilities make for a more satisfying narrative.

3. Foreshadowing is Your Friend
Use foreshadowing to plant clues and hints that lead to major plot developments. This way, when something significant happens, it feels earned and believable.

For instance, if your hero finds a hidden passageway in a crucial moment, it shouldn't be the first time the passage is mentioned. Maybe they noticed a peculiar draft in an earlier chapter. This makes the discovery feel natural rather than contrived.

Examples of Avoiding Contrivance
Let's look at some examples of how you can avoid contrivance in your storytelling:

- Mystery Novels: Instead of the detective stumbling upon the final clue out of nowhere, build up to it. Maybe they've been gathering small, seemingly insignificant details throughout the story that suddenly click together.

- Fantasy Stories: If a character needs a magical item to defeat the villain, don't introduce the item at the last minute. Have them embark on a quest to find it, facing challenges that make the reward feel deserved.

- Romantic Comedies: Avoid scenarios where the love interests keep meeting by sheer coincidence. Establish common interests or mutual friends that bring them together naturally.

Personal Anecdote
I remember writing a short story in college in which the protagonist miraculously survived multiple life-threatening situations without much explanation. My teacher pointed out that it felt like I was protecting the character rather than letting the story unfold authentically. It was a harsh critique, but it taught me the importance of allowing characters to face real consequences and challenges.

Final Thoughts
Keeping your narrative free of contrived elements is crucial for maintaining your story's credibility. Readers want to feel that the plot progresses naturally and that the characters earn their victories. By planning your plot carefully, using foreshadowing, and letting characters drive the story, you can avoid the pitfalls of contrivance and create a more engaging and believable narrative.