Brilio.net - Short stories are a form of literary work that is loved by many people because of its ability to convey a dense and interesting story in a limited space. One of the important elements in a short story is the plot, which is a series of events that form the story. The plot not only determines how the story develops, but also how the reader is involved and feels the emotions of the story.
The plot in a short story can vary greatly, from a simple forward plot to a complex mixed plot. Each type of plot has characteristics and traits that make it unique. Understanding these different types of plot is important for writers and readers to appreciate and create richer and more interesting stories. The plot chosen by the writer can affect how the story is told and how the reader responds to the story.
Knowing the various types of plots in short story texts also helps in understanding the structure of the story and how the elements of the story interact with each other. By understanding the meaning and characteristics of each type of plot, the writer can more easily determine the most appropriate plot for the story he wants to convey. In addition, readers can also enjoy and appreciate the story better.
Various plots in short story texts
Progressive flow
The forward plot is the most common type of plot used in short stories. This plot tells events chronologically from beginning to end. The story begins with the introduction of characters and setting, then progresses through conflict, climax, and finally resolution. The forward plot is easy to follow and provides a linear reading experience.
Characteristics of forward flow:
- Events are arranged chronologically.
- Has a clear structure: introduction, conflict, climax, and resolution.
- Easy for readers to follow.
- Provides a linear and orderly reading experience.
Regressive flow
Flashback is a type of plot that tells events from end to beginning. The story begins with a climax or resolution, then reveals events that occurred previously. Flashback is often used to create a surprise effect or to gradually reveal a character's background.
Characteristics of retrograde flow:
- The story begins from the end or climax.
- Reveal past events gradually.
- Creates a surprise or suspense effect.
- Helps in revealing the background of characters and events in depth.
Mixed flow (Combined)
A mixed plot is a combination of flashforward and flashback. The story can move forward and backward in time to reveal important events. A mixed plot is often used in complex stories with many characters and subplots.
Characteristics of Mixed Flow:
- Combines forward and backward flow elements.
- The story moves forward and backward in time.
- Often used in complex stories.
- Allows for the disclosure of events from multiple perspectives.
Circular groove
A circular plot is a type of plot in which the story ends at the same point where it began. It is often used to show a cycle or recurring pattern in a character's life. A circular plot can give the impression that the events in the story are part of a larger cycle.
Characteristics of circular grooves:
- The story ends at the same point where it began.
- Shows a repeating cycle or pattern.
- Gives the impression that the event is part of a larger cycle.
- Often used to describe recurring life themes.
Parallel Flow
Parallel plot is a type of plot in which two or more sets of events occur simultaneously but separately. The story may alternate between different sets of events, which eventually meet or influence each other. Parallel plots are often used to show different perspectives or to develop subplots.
Characteristics of Parallel Flow:
- Two or more series of events occur simultaneously.
- The story alternates between different series of events.
- A series of events eventually meet or influence each other.
- Allows the story to be told from multiple points of view.
Episodic plot
Episodic plot is a type of plot in which the story consists of a series of relatively independent episodes or events but are related by a theme or central character. Each episode can stand alone but also contributes to the overall story.
Characteristics of episodic plot:
- A story consists of a series of relatively independent episodes or events. - The episodes are related by a theme or main character.
- Each episode can stand alone but also contributes to the overall story.
- Often used in stories that have many subplots or themes.
Chronological flow
Chronological plot is a type of plot that tells events according to the order in which they occur. This plot is similar to the forward plot, but places more emphasis on strict time sequence. Chronological plot is often used in stories that require clarity in the order of events.
Characteristics of chronological flow:
- Events are arranged according to the order in which they occurred.
- Emphasizes clarity of sequence of events.
- Makes it easier for readers to follow the development of the story.
- Suitable for stories that require clear chronological order.
Non-chronological plot
Non-chronological plot is a type of plot that does not follow the chronological order of events. The story can jump around in time, revealing past, present, and future events at random. Non-chronological plots are often used to create dramatic effect or to reveal information gradually.
Characteristics of non-chronological flow:
- Does not follow the chronological order of events.
- The story jumps around in time.
- Reveals past, present, and future events randomly.
- Creates a dramatic or suspense effect.