Dominoes are rectangular blocks with a line down the center that separates the ends into squares with different numbers of dots–called pips. They are typically used to play games that involve stacking them on end in long lines. If a domino is tipped, it causes the next domino in the line to tip over, and so on, until the entire line has fallen. A series of dominoes stacked in this manner can create very complex patterns. The joy of knocking over a line of dominoes has led to the common phrase “the domino effect,” which describes a small action that leads to larger–and sometimes disastrous–consequences.
When it comes to writing fiction, the key to a compelling story is the domino effect. It doesn’t matter if you compose your manuscript off the cuff or take your time with a careful outline, plotting a novel still comes down to one question: What happens next? Considering how to use the domino effect in your story can help you answer that question and keep readers engaged with your work.
Whether you are using Domino to teach basic math or build an intricate domino sculpture, the concept of the domino effect applies to many areas in life. In a game of domino, the order in which you set up your dominoes determines how quickly the chain reaction builds. The same can be said about the way in which you set up your story. The order in which you present your scenes and the sequence in which they occur can have a huge impact on the overall momentum of your narrative.
A classic example of the domino effect is the domino effect of a wet firecracker. A wet firecracker is more likely to explode with greater force than a dry one. This is because the water fills a large portion of the combustion chamber, increasing the pressure in the chamber and the temperature at which it reaches. In addition, the domino effect is amplified when the wet firecracker is dropped on a hard surface such as cement or wood.
When it comes to writing, the domino effect is important because it helps you narrate your story in a way that feels natural and compelling. The key is to use the scene dominoes to naturally influence each other in a way that adds depth and complexity to your narrative. This article explores how the domino effect can be applied to the process of writing fiction, but it can also be useful when examining other genres such as nonfiction and poetry.