Dissonance in Literature
Have you ever been pulled out of a story because something just didn’t feel right? Maybe the protagonist made a baffling choice, or the plot swerved in a way that left you scratching your head. That jarring moment, my friends, is dissonance—a reader’s feeling that something in your story doesn’t make sense or feels off.
As a new author, understanding dissonance can be both a challenge and an opportunity. When used unintentionally, dissonance can frustrate and alienate readers. But when wielded with care, it can deepen your narrative and evoke powerful emotional responses. Let’s dive into what dissonance is, how to spot it, and how to use it effectively in your writing.
What is Dissonance in Literature?
In literature, dissonance refers to a disruption in the story’s flow, logic, or emotional resonance. It’s that nagging sense of “Wait, what?” readers feel when something in the narrative doesn’t add up. While some level of intrigue or mystery can keep readers engaged, dissonance usually breaks immersion instead of enhancing it.
Dissonance can occur in many forms, such as:
Character actions that defy established traits.
Example: A brave hero suddenly cowering in fear without a compelling reason.
Plot twists that feel unearned.
Example: A deus ex machina solution to a complex problem.
Inconsistencies in world-building.
Example: A society with advanced technology inexplicably using medieval tools.
Dialogue that rings false.
Example: A street-smart character suddenly using academic jargon.
Why Does Dissonance Matter?
Dissonance matters because it impacts the reader’s trust. Readers enter your story ready to suspend disbelief and follow you on a journey, but when something feels off, they can’t help but pause. These moments pull them out of the narrative and make them question your story’s logic or coherence.
However, dissonance isn’t inherently bad. In fact, intentional dissonance can create tension, provoke thought, or highlight contradictions in a character or society. The key is knowing when and how to use it.
Common Causes of Unintentional Dissonance
Unintentional dissonance often stems from:
Underdeveloped Characters:
If your characters’ motivations or backstories are unclear, their actions may feel inconsistent.
Rushed Plot Development:
A plot that leaps from point A to point Z without stopping at B can leave readers confused.
Inconsistent Tone:
Switching from lighthearted banter to grim tragedy without a clear transition can feel jarring.
Ignored Rules of the World:
When you establish rules for your world, breaking them without explanation disrupts the story’s internal logic.
How to Spot Dissonance in Your Writing
Spotting dissonance requires stepping back and viewing your story from a reader’s perspective. Here are some strategies:
Beta Readers:
Fresh eyes can pinpoint moments that don’t make sense.
Outlining and Reverse Outlining:
Mapping out your story can reveal gaps or inconsistencies.
Consistency Checks:
Create a character and world-building bible to ensure continuity.
Question the “Why:”
For every major plot point or character decision, ask yourself, “Why does this happen?” If the answer isn’t clear, you may need to revise.
Using Dissonance Intentionally
When used deliberately, dissonance can be a powerful tool. Here’s how:
Create Tension:
Let dissonance heighten suspense by making readers question a character’s reliability or motives.
Highlight Themes:
Use dissonance to underscore thematic conflicts, such as the clash between tradition and innovation.
Challenge Reader Assumptions:
Shake up expectations to keep your story unpredictable and thought-provoking.
Evoke Emotional Reactions:
Introduce moments of discomfort or unease to engage readers on a deeper level.
Examples of Intentional Dissonance in Literature
Jay Gatsby’s Mysterious Persona (“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald):
The dissonance between Gatsby’s glamorous image and his desperate yearning creates a poignant tension.
Unreliable Narration (“Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn):
The conflicting narratives of Nick and Amy keep readers guessing.
Moral Ambiguity (“Breaking Bad” in Screenwriting):
Walter White’s transformation from a sympathetic teacher to a ruthless criminal challenges viewer loyalties.
Fixing Unintentional Dissonance
To fix unintentional dissonance, follow these steps:
Clarify Motivations:
Ensure every character’s actions align with their goals, fears, and personality.
Pace Your Plot:
Allow time for events to unfold naturally.
Respect Your World’s Rules:
Stick to the logic you’ve established.
Refine Your Tone:
Smooth out tonal shifts to maintain consistency.
Seek Feedback:
Don’t underestimate the value of honest critique.
Practice Exercise
Think of a story you love that had a moment of dissonance. What threw you off, and how would you fix it? Conversely, consider a story where dissonance was used effectively. How did it enhance the narrative?
Mastering dissonance means striking a balance. Whether you’re tightening up your plot or crafting intentional disruptions, the key is to keep your reader engaged. By understanding the power and pitfalls of dissonance, you can elevate your storytelling to new heights.
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