: Re: Non-Linear Storyline: Dynamic vs. Static chapter sequence While this question may be a little nit-picky I realize chapters do help the flow of a book, and, since I'm now plotting a novel, I

@Carla500

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Your terminology is fine, and I think either way might work depending on your story.

The idea that we're left wondering if a character is alive may be quite deliberate on the author's part. Whether the reader is frustrated or writhing in suspense is, again, dependent on the story.

I don't object to the idea of making the reader work a bit at remembering subplots, and that also allows for a pleasurable subsequent re-read, as you go through remembering where so-and-so was and seeing how the author deliberately put that character to the side for the other plots to develop.

On the other hand, if you have enough subplots to make George R.R. Martin reach for a scorecard, then consistent scene cycling wouldn't be a bad thing.

I would lean towards what you're terming dynamic, because I think it will generally serve the story better, but the static structure could be equally effective if warranted.

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