Day 60: The Near Miss

As you’re writing your novel manuscript, you may soon encounter the “Near Miss.” As your protagonist ascends the rising action of the third act, this is when you pull the rug out from under him right when he seems like he might accomplish his Impossible Thing.

You’re going to solve this setback in an ironic or surprising way. When you do that, it’s important that you take into account deus ex machina and prevent it.

ASSIGNMENT: Write for one hour. Add 1,000 words to your book.

FOR FURTHER STUDY: The Near Miss is developed in much greater detail in chapters 4 and 10 of The Novel Matrix by Brad Pauquette. You’ll also find a more detailed explanation of deus ex machina. Grab your copy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4fzt10z

You can also join Brad’s newsletter to engage in productive discussion about writing and publishing: https://bradpauquette.com/mailing-list/

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