AP Lit Unit 3: Mechanics of Structure and Narrative in Longer Fiction

Plot

The artistic arrangement of events in a narrative, not merely a sequence of happenings.

Story vs. Plot

Story is the chronological sequence of events; Plot is the order in which events are presented to the reader.

In Media Res

A narrative technique where the story begins in the middle of the action.

Flashback (Analepsis)

A scene that interrupts the present action to depict an earlier event, providing context or motivation.

Foreshadowing

Hints or clues in a narrative that suggest future events.

Frame Narrative

A story within a story that establishes context for the core narrative.

Pacing

The speed at which the story unfolds, influencing the reader's emotional response.

Fast Pacing Techniques

Short sentences, action verbs, and minimal detail create tension and excitement.

Slow Pacing Techniques

Long syntax, detailed imagery, and internal monologue build atmosphere and introspection.

Physical Distance

Refers to how close the narrator is to the action occurring in the story.

Chronological Distance

The time gap between the events and the narration in a story.

Emotional Distance

The level of emotional involvement a narrator has with the events and characters.

Stream of Consciousness

A narrative mode that attempts to capture the flow of thought in a chaotic manner.

Unreliable Narrator

A narrator whose credibility is compromised, often due to personal biases or mental state.

Internal Conflict

Psychological struggles within a character, such as guilt or identity crisis.

External Conflict

Struggles against outside forces, like another character or societal expectations.

Inciting Incident

The event that disrupts the status quo and introduces the main conflict.

Climax

The point of highest tension in a narrative where the main conflict must be addressed.

Resolution and Denouement

The settling of conflict and the closure of the narrative.

Ambiguous Resolution

An ending where the main conflict is not fully resolved, inviting reader interpretation.

Tragic Resolution

A conclusion that often results in loss or suffering, restoring order but leaving emotional devastation.

Confusing Plot Summary with Analysis

Mistaking a recount of events for a deeper examination of narrative structure and purpose.

Misidentifying Narrative Distance

Assuming all first-person narratives imply close emotional distance without considering context.

Ignoring the 'Why' of Structure

Failing to analyze the purpose behind specific narrative choices and structures.

Overlooking Pacing

Neglecting the significant impact of unequal time coverage in different sections of a narrative.