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Q&A How do I keep the plot interesting in a humorous book?

Here's where I think you're going wrong. You say: Since there is no tension in the plot (as it is a comedy book), the plot soon loses focus. Why would a comedic novel not require tension? Eve...

posted 12y ago by Lynn Beighley‭  ·  last activity 4y ago by System‭

Answer
#3: Attribution notice added by user avatar System‭ · 2019-12-08T01:54:29Z (over 4 years ago)
Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/a/3841
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/
#2: Initial revision by user avatar Lynn Beighley‭ · 2019-12-08T01:54:29Z (over 4 years ago)
Here's where I think you're going wrong. You say:

> Since there is no tension in the plot (as it is a comedy book), the plot soon loses focus.

Why would a comedic novel not require tension? Every novel needs tension. There must be a reason that the hero goes to place A and place B, something driving him, something urgent and important or scary or wonderful. (Remember the movie Galaxy Quest? Funny, and with a strong plot.)

I recommend you locate comedic novels and read them to see how the humorous tone of the novel can work with a strong plot. I don't see any reason why you should limit yourself to reading only comedic fantasy novels.

Also, I think the best comedic novels aren't made up of one funny event after another. A little pathos thrown in, something heavy and serious to provide a contrast to the humor is often a good idea.

#1: Imported from external source by user avatar System‭ · 2011-09-06T15:49:18Z (over 12 years ago)
Original score: 6