As you may remember, most stories follow the same basic structure, beginning with the setup of the basic situation and ending with the resolution of the main conflict.
An author creates narrative tension--a feeling of anxious anticipation--by keeping us in suspense about what will happen next. Click each stage below for examples of how the author uses suspense at different points in the short story "Hawk." (If you have not read this story, click the button below to access a copy.)
| 1. Exposition: We learn who the characters are and what the basic situation is. | At the beginning, we're in suspense about the main character's situation. Why is he walking alone in the woods at night, and what is on the flash drive that he carries as an "offering"? Who is Max? How does Will's grandfather figure into the story? |
| 2. Rising Action: Events occur and the action builds as the situation gets more complicated. The main conflict or struggle becomes clear. | We learn that Will has stolen the flash drive as his initiation offering to a group of tough, popular boys. The main conflict takes shape: Will is wrestling with his conscience, as represented by the memory of his grandfather saying, "Be True." We're in suspense about Will's decision. |
| 3. Climax: The action builds to the climax, the moment of great intensity or uncertainty in the story. | The climax is the moment of greatest suspense: What will happen as the boys rush toward Will to grab the flash drive? Will he stick to his decision to do the right thing? Will he get hurt? |
| 4. Falling Action: After the story's climax, the action winds down. | Some suspense remains as the angry boys pursue Will through the woods. |
| 5. Resolution: The story reaches the final working out of the main conflict. | The suspense over the outcome is resolved: Will escapes the boys, at least for now. Complications still lie ahead for him, but the story ends on a peaceful note. |
Question
How is suspense related to the climax of a story?
The climax is the most suspenseful moment of the story. An author builds suspense slowly toward that moment.
