Why Every Story Needs Consequences

Why do consequences matter in fiction? Readers expect actions to have consequences. Learn how this simple rule creates satisfying stories.

When we plot a book, we give our protagonist a story goal. If that story goal is any good, there should be terrible consequences if that character fails to achieve the goal. (Suggested reading: 5 Criteria For Creating Successful Story Goals)

We read fiction because it is not like real life, where there are often no consequences for terrible people and the awful things they do, and hardly ever good consequences for people who deserve better. To satisfy a reader, we must ensure that there are consequences for characters’ actions.

What Is A Consequence?

According to Oxford English Dictionary, it is ‘a result or effect of an action or condition’. One of the most common phrases associated with the word is ‘bear the consequences’, which means to ‘accept responsibility for the negative results of one’s action’.

The term is mostly used in a negative context to show the effect, result, or outcome of something that happened at an earlier time.

Why Every Story Needs Consequences

If our characters do something good or something bad, or if they fail to do something, there must be consequences for their actions. This is especially true when you are planning the end of your book. Readers want an ending that satisfies them.

Our characters’ actions and choices move stories to their conclusions. Consequences give meaning to their actions. You could say they give the possibility of showing the moral of the story.

If there are no consequences for bad things that happen in a society, apathy and lawlessness sets in. There is a sense that nothing matters and people become despondent. We do not want this to happen when people read our books. Readers must feel that everything matters and that there will be a reckoning for the actions of the characters.

How To Use Consequences In Fiction

In their purest form, consequences show the cause and effect that people want from storytelling. For example, if your protagonist has the opportunity to kill (or remove) the antagonist, but does not do it, show how that person continues to wreak havoc in their world.

We write about character flaws and we say that you must include them, but we should only include them if they affect the story. For example, in Othello, Othello’s jealousy (character flaw) drives him to murder. The consequences of this flaw make a difference in the story.

Consequences allow for change and change is great for storytelling. Readers want to see characters go through an ordeal before they reach their goals. They want them to change and to learn lessons along the way. For example, if a character forgets to go to a meeting, they may lose their job and this changes the trajectory of the story.

But, the most important way to use them is by showing that people sow what they reap. Show that there is a reaction to an action that was taken. This is an important part of the pleasure and satisfaction readers get from stories.

Three Examples Of Consequences In Novels

1. In The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, Amir’s failure to stand up for Hassan fills him with guilt (consequences) for years. His journey to redeem himself forms the heart of the novel.
2. In The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, Katniss’s decision to defy the Capitol sparks a rebellion (consequences) with her as the face of the revolution (consequence).
3. In Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Elizabeth Bennet’s quick judgment of Darcy and Darcy’s pride keep them apart (consequences). Both characters have to work on their flaws to be together.

The Final Word

Consequences give every choice in your story meaning. They raise the stakes, shape your characters, and make readers care about what happens next. When actions have real consequences, your story feels more believable and far more satisfying.

© Amanda Patterson

More posts from Amanda:

1. Scenes And Sequels: The Writer’s Guide To Stronger Story Structure
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4. 10 Powerful Cliffhangers Every Writer Should Know
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6. Mystery, Horror, Thriller – What’s The Difference?
7. How Writers Use The Love Interest As A Literary Device
8. Make Readers Care: 9 Ways To Create An Unforgettable Story
9. 30 Practical Tips To Beat Writer’s Block
10. What Is Backstory? How To Make It Work Like Scar Tissue In Your Book

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