Yet More Obstacles

To achieve one single aim your hero may have to face a series of increasingly difficult obstacles. It is a game to imagine them. Think of Ulysses and his companions persecuted by Fate and the gods as they try to get home, although their aim is quite simple. Note though that Ulysses’ predicaments are interchangeable, they don’t increase in intensity. Imagine obstacles whose resolutions allow your hero to get progressively closer to his/her aim. Your account will be even more efficient.

EXERCISE 30 Imagine a dozen obstacles that could come between your hero and the aim he/she has set him/herself. Organize them in ascending order from the easiest to the most dramatic (crucial). Some of your ideas are probably less interesting than others. Put them to one side and develop the others.