Sometimes, subplots refuse to say “sub.” Or they have no usefulness to our story, when we really look deep into our souls (and story structure, characters, etc.). Sometimes, they just have to go.
Know when to hold ’em
A subplot can probably stay in the story if the events of the subplot change the course of the main character’s actions. If the main character would not go on to do things in the main plot without the subplot’s influence, step away from the delete key! Likewise, if the events or people in the subplot change the main character’s trajectory on his internal journey, keep it.
Often, even if the only function of the subplot within the greater whole of the story is to make things more difficult for your character, it can stay, as long as the subplot remains in proportion to the main plot. However, this one can be harder to pull off. Think of a rival for the hero’s affections in a romance. Once the hero and heroine are together (i.e., before the black moment), we either need closure on the issue of the rival or to see her again. This subplot line is in danger of leaving you with loose threads!
However, a subplot that’s worth keeping isn’t necessarily perfect. Even if a subplot is pretty vital to the story, you may still need to bring it back into balance with the main plot.
Remember, subplots make your story richer—as long as they don’t take over the whole thing!
Know when to run
It’s usually best to cut out any subplot that:
- Undermines the theme of your story
- Presents your main characters in a way that’s contradictory to their nature or their course on the internal journey
- Hijacks the story (You might rewrite the story if you really love this subplot.)
- Overshadows the story without adding anything to the “main” plot.
- Duplicates the main plotline or character journey without creating an impact on the main character (or reader) beyond repetition.
- Doesn’t change your main characters & the main plot.
Going under the knife
Before you cut willy-nilly, look at how your subplot intersects with your main plot and your main characters. When does it affect them, and how? Could you achieve that effect another way? Do you need to? Is that necessary for your story?
If the subplot never affects your main characters—and it doesn’t offer a good parallel or counterexample—start cutting!
Still struggling to let go of that subplot? Next time, we’ll take a look at how to take a seemingly extraneous subplot and integrate it into your story better!
There are many more times when the delete key is your friend. What do you think? When is it best to let your subplots go the way of all the digital files? Come share!
Photo by 7 Bits of Truth
