Tension-resolution pairs

Disciplines > Storytelling > Storytelling articles > Tension-resolution pairs

The fundamental pattern of all stories is tension and resolution. A wrong is done, creating tension, then the wrong is righted, creating the relief and closure of resolution. The stimulation of emotion that this creates leads to a sense of pleasure in the reader or observer.

Tension and resolution thus largely appears in matching pairs. However, few if any stories have a single pair, although many have a major pair with other pairs being used to keep the excitement going throughout the story.

Here is a big list of tension-resolution pairs that cover many story patterns.

Inadequacy - Transformation
Revelation - Transformation
Corruption - Redemption
Threat - Averted
Attack - Defeat
Attack - Victory
Loss - Search
Search - Discovery
Discovery - Exploitation
Discovery - Loss
Need - Gain
Need - Relief
Need - Seek
Threat - Salvation
Threat - Defense
Capture - Rescue
Capture - Escape
Chase - Capture
Chase - Escape
Conquest - Revolt
Attack - Defend
Attack - Repulse
Defend - Victory
Defend - Defeat
Ignorance - Illumination
Illumination - Seeking
Trust - Betrayal
Betrayal - Retribution
Betrayal - Restoration
Dislike - Like
Destruction - Restoration
Death - Rebirth
Seek - Find
Unrealized - Realized
Wrong - Righted
Suppression - Rebellion
Shame - Redemption

Tension-resolution pairs in a story can be written in a notation system that uses an indentation system taken from the field of computer programming. This uses a few simple rules:

1. Each tension and resolution goes on a new line.

2. When a new tension arises before a previous tension is resolved, it is indented by four more spaces

3. The resolution that closes a tension sits vertically beneath it, at the same indent level.

Tension-resolution pairs

See also