Conflict
In short: Conflict is the resistance a character works against – a desire that meets an obstacle. Without conflict there is no tension and no development.
Where the term comes from
The word comes from the Latin „conflictus“, „collision“. Aristotle already placed the plot at the centre of tragedy in his Poetics; today's familiar types of conflict – character against character, against self, against circumstances – come from 20th-century writing instruction.
Types of conflict
Character vs. character: The classic conflict: two wills collide (protagonist and antagonist).
Character vs. self: Inner conflict – doubt, guilt, competing desires – is often the most moving.
Character vs. circumstances: Society, nature, fate: outside forces the character must withstand.
Conflict on Fireside
Especially in short stories, one clear conflict is enough. The AI editorial feedback can tell you whether it is felt from the start.
Related terms: Protagonist · Antagonist · Plot · Character Development
Frequently asked questions
Why does every story need conflict?
Because only resistance to a desire creates tension and forces the character to develop.
What is an inner conflict?
A struggle within the character – for instance between duty and desire, or between two loyalties.
How many conflicts does a short story need?
Usually one central conflict is enough. Short texts leave little room for subplots – one conflict that escalates works better than several running side by side.