Status Updates From Emotion Amplifiers

“Just as characters show emotion uniquely, they should also respond in their own way to the different amplifiers.”

“Often the setting will naturally favor certain amplifier types over others, so choose something organic to the scene and events. Pacing is important, so consider carefully if the amplifier truly adds complication and tension rather than simply providing a delaying tactic to keep the hero from his goal. Add one to the mix and see what new conflict, insecurity, or difficult decision arises because of it.”

“Applying an amplifier to a secondary character doesn’t always have to immediately result in a catastrophic event. Sometimes, like the tightening of a screw, it simply increases stress for the main character, which leads to poor decision-making.”

“Each amplifier makes it more difficult for her to think clearly and make good decisions. […] Secondly, these amplifiers heighten the hero’s emotions. With each new stressor, Katniss becomes more afraid, paranoid, angry, or depressed. As readers, we feel those emotions right along with her.”

“If emotion is low, chances are that story tension is also waning. When emotion is high and it’s written effectively, tension will most likely be on the rise. Tension is important in a story because it increases reader interest. When the hero’s outlook is grim, readers worry over his success. This worry translates into empathy with the character and a desire to keep reading in order to find out what happens.”

“Compromising your character’s physical and mental state also creates tension, planting doubt in the reader’s mind about the hero’s ability to succeed.”

“Amplifiers also can evoke memory for the reader because of their commonality. At some point, every person has felt a burst of energy that propels him to tackle a task; he has experienced pain that sends a jarring throb through flesh and bone. Universal experiences like these help forge a link between reader and character.”