As a result of some comments that a piece of my work (Exit 21) lacks texture (not said by anyone on WW, I might add), I've been looking at ways of improving the piece.

I've come across some writings on technique which suggest that one role of sub-plots is to take the protagonist(s) out of the main spotlight for a while - pehaps to give the reader a view of what else is going on around them.

The question is, what proportion of say a 120,000 word novel should be given over to sub-plot? And is there a danger of the main action becoming swamped or degraded by taking the reader's eye of the main plot line?

Any thoughts?

jumbo

John, I think this is a very difficult question to answer. The subplot should be so interwoven with the main plot that it’s hard to separate them.

If you’re thinking of a serious rewrite of Exit 21, why don’t you upload the synopsis… we might be able to spot where you can introduce or enlarge a subplot. I still think Kira (was it Kira?) could be a much bigger player.

Dee
x

Read a book with a subplot. If you find yourself yawning or skip-reading, the subplot has gone on too long; likewise if when you return to the main plot you have to look back to refresh your memory on what was happening.

If you look upon your novel as a play, then the subplot is a diversion that gives the main characters time to change their costumes and have a quick pee - but only if they do it at a run.

Dee and Paul

Thanks for your help on this. That's given me some food for thought.

All the best

jumbo