The lure of a mystery is present in all genres due to the
main story question. If we are hooked at the beginning we will read, even
through dull sections, determined to find the end’s answer. Chapter endings,
scene endings need to leave us with that pause of ‘will she or won’t she
succeed or fail’. The books and movies that keep us wondering breathe that
mystery thread with both multiple possibilities and/or multiple questions.
The movie Shag
keeps several story lines as bait.
For the trip itself, we are introduced to each girl leaving
in the car, two by choice, one by stealth and one reluctantly so our first
questions are why the hesitation and will they get away. Then will they caught
when they head for a different place? If they get caught what will the
consequences be? To everyone or just those whose property has been ruined? Each
step of the trip requires a choice and each choice has unforeseen consequences
that keep the reader wondering.
Another thread of questions lies in character discovery.
With each girl acting a little out of character we begin to wonder if everyone
is not what he or she seem to be. What are the hidden agendas? Which parts are
masks and which parts are real? Sometimes the characters themselves aren’t sure
which adds even more suspense. Or are others misunderstanding what they see?
Journal Prompt: On
a recent TV series one of the main characters is caught by some incriminating photographs
that become publicized as an affair and yet in reality are not. Put your character
is a compromising situation, and then list three to five alternative reasons
that she is there. Choose the one that will require the most confusion as to
why or the one with the most costly consequences.
Share: What movie
or novel kept you on the edge of your seat until the final page?
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