What is an Inverted Plot in Story Writing

Well, if you are aware of what plotting is in storytelling let me introduce the unique type of plot known as “Inverted Plot” Haven’t heard of it before? No worries we are going to discuss this in deep

Before diving into the concept of the inverted plot, let’s clarify a couple of important points, especially if you’re new to the world of literature.

First, plot and story are not the same thing. Many people still confuse these two terms but there is a significant difference between plot and story, so if you’re one of them, you’re welcome!

Second, a story is simply a story—it’s the overarching narrative or series of events. Yes, there are different types of stories, but in general, a story is just that: a story. Meanwhile, a plot refers to the specific structure or framework used to tell the story, and it has different types and variations.

So, Now come to the point of the Inverted Plot…

What is an Inverted Plot? The Definition

An inverted plot, also known as an inverted narrative or reverse chronology, is a storytelling technique where the usual order of events is reversed.

Instead of starting with the beginning of a story and progressing forward in time, an inverted plot begins near the middle or at the end of the story and then reveals events in reverse order. This technique can create a sense of suspense and intrigue as readers or viewers uncover how the story arrived at its starting point or pivotal moment. It challenges traditional linear storytelling by presenting events in a backward sequence, requiring the audience to piece together the narrative’s timeline in reverse.

Example of An Inverted Plot

To better understand an inverted plot concept, let’s consider an example from a well-known novel: “The Sound and the Fury” by William Faulkner. This classic novel employs a complex, non-linear narrative structure that can be seen as partially inverted. One of its sections, narrated by Quentin Compson, starts with the present and delves backward into memories, unraveling the story in reverse order to reveal critical events and motivations.

Another excellent example is “Memento,” a story that is famously told in reverse chronology. While originally a screenplay, its narrative style has inspired discussions in literary contexts. The protagonist’s experiences are revealed backward creating a sense of suspense and allowing readers to piece together the events leading to the present.

Now you might be aware of what an inverted plot actually is but the question here do you even need this plot to be used in your story? Well, let’s check this out

Should I Use Inverted Plot Structure in My Story

Certainly, it depends on the kind of story you’re telling/writing and what you want your readers to feel or learn. Let’s break it down.

When an Inverted Plot Works Wonders

1. 1. If You’re Building Suspense
      Do you have a jaw-dropping ending or even a mini-intense moment you want readers to unpack? Starting from the end and working backward can keep them hooked as they try to figure out how everything happened.

1. 1. When You Want to Dive Into Themes?
      Let’s say your story is about choices, consequences, or fate. By starting with the end result, you can highlight the chain of events that led there and make readers think about how everything connects.

1. 1. If Your Story Feels Predictable
      Sometimes, a traditional timeline just doesn’t cut it. An inverted structure can make the narrative feel fresh and keep your audience engaged and hooked by adding layers of mystery.

1. 1. To Show Character Complexity
      Sometimes, writing “he became voiceless after that incident” isn’t enough, you’ve to show how he became this taciturn through the segments of heart-wrenching events and situations. So, if you want readers to understand why your protagonist ended up where they did, an inverted plot can peel back the layers, revealing their journey in a unique and captivating way.

When It’s Better to Stick to the Basic Plotting

1. 1. If It’s Just for Show
      Let’s be real—using an inverted plot just to look fancy can backfire. If it doesn’t actually add depth or intrigue to your story, it’s probably not worth it.

1. 1. When Simplicity is Key
      Some stories thrive on a straightforward approach. If your audience prefers a clear beginning-to-end flow, an inverted plot might confuse or even frustrate them.

1. 1. If Your Story Needs a Build-Up
      For tales with gradual tension or emotional growth, jumping straight to the ending could steal the magic of the journey. As I said above, sometimes you need to show the readers how your character becomes “this type” by showcasing what they’ve gone through. The journey matters just as much as the outcome. For example, if your story is about a character overcoming trauma, the emotional weight of their transformation is best felt when readers experience the challenges, small victories, and setbacks in chronological order. This way, the readers can connect with the character’s growth, struggle, and eventual triumph more deeply.

Things to Keep in Mind

• • Be Clear with your ideas: Writing backward is tricky. Each scene has to connect smoothly so readers don’t feel lost.

• • Start Strong: Since you’re revealing the outcome upfront, make it so compelling enough that readers need to know how it all happened.

• • Plan It Out: Don’t wing it. Carefully map how each scene will reveal new details without losing momentum or pacing.

So, Should You Do It?

If you think an inverted plot can make your story more gripping, go for it! But if it feels forced or unnecessary, don’t sweat it—a traditional structure might be exactly what your story needs.

5 Best Tips to Write Inverted Plot Story

Your Outcome should be worth reading.

The ending (or the point where the story begins in reverse) needs to be intriguing enough to hook the reader. It should raise questions that they’ll want answered as they move backward through the plot. If the outcome feels flat, the entire structure will lose its purpose. It simply means that the event you create an entire story around should not be something boring or underwhelming, leaving readers to question why it was even important. The event should be significant enough to justify the drama it creates.

For example, the book “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd“ by Agatha Christie

She opens this novel with a seemingly straightforward murder case. The aftermath of the murder of Roger Ackroyd, a wealthy man in a quiet English village. This opening is deceptively straightforward, as it appears to be the start of a conventional whodunit. The initial focus is on uncovering who killed Ackroyd and why, which is enough to intrigue and buckle readers who enjoy murder mysteries. However, Christie’s brilliance lies in how this seemingly simple starting point is packed with layers of complexity and intrigue. But to note it was simple, not boring or an aimless point!

Give Your Story Narrator A ‘Why’ Moment to Reveal the Back Story.

So, imagine everything in your story is flawless, but the narrator you chose is the protagonist’s aunt, who doesn’t even appear in half of the scenes. Does this perspective make the story worth reading? Probably not! Then make sure there’s a well-set reason for the narrator (or story narrator) to dive into the backstory. Whether it’s a confession, a revelation, or a haunting memory, this “why” keeps the reader satisfied and provides context for the reverse storytelling.

Don’t Over-Exaggerate nor Fill Your Story with Boredom

Find the balance between Drama and pace. Avoid exaggerating the twists or packing the story with unnecessary details to fill gaps. At the same time, don’t let the pace drag and bore readers. Keep the events crisp, relevant, and emotionally engaging. In my point of view, the novel that fits well with the point of not over-exaggerating nor filling the story with boredom, while also using an inverted plot structure, is “The Night Watch” by Sarah Waters.

• • Balanced Drama: The Night Watch is set during and after World War II in London, and the story explores the lives of its characters through interconnected personal struggles, secrets, and betrayals. Waters avoids overly sensationalizing any one event; instead, the drama unfolds naturally through the characters’ experiences and emotional depth.

• • Inverted Plot Structure: The novel begins with a conclusion of sorts by introducing the characters in a post-war context and then slowly works backward through their lives. This reversed chronology lets the reader unravel the characters’ stories and the secrets that led to their current state.

• • Pacing: Waters strikes a perfect balance with the pacing. The story is not bogged down by unnecessary details or dragging events (which is the most incredible part). Each chapter peels back another layer of the character’s past, creating intrigue without slowing the narrative down. The author provides just enough detail to make each moment significant while avoiding unnecessary fillers that could slow down the story.

Avoid Simply Copy-Pasting the Outcome

Don’t take the last few pages of your novel and place them at the beginning as-is. Instead, frame the starting point with mystery or intrigue. Introduce elements that hint at the ending but leave enough room for curiosity to build. Like we’ll have read ‘The Secret History’ and how beautifully Donna Tart describes its start and end without letting readers feel that the end is what we read at the start of the book.

At the beginning of the novel, the narrator, Richard Papen, reflects on the murder of a fellow student, and the story opens with a sense of foreboding. He starts by explaining that someone in his circle of friends has been killed, and this sets up an immediate mystery. However, instead of directly revealing the specifics of the murder, Tartt carefully frames the opening by gradually introducing the enigmatic and intellectual group of students involved in the crime.

Instead of placing the murder at the beginning as-is, she draws readers into a web of intrigue, hinting at the complex relationships, secrets, and moral ambiguity of the characters. Through Richard’s narration, we get glimpses of their behavior and personalities, but the full picture of the crime and its causes is only revealed as the novel progresses. The opening sets the stage for curiosity & tension, admire readers to keep going to uncover the details of the murder and its aftermath.

Map out Your Plot Before Writing

I know this point isn’t specifically tied to an inverted plot, but planning or mapping out the entire plot is crucial for any story. Whether it involves basic plotting or more complex structures. Reverse storytelling is especially tricky—every scene must connect seamlessly, reveal something new, and build toward the opening moment. Carefully plan the entire structure before you start writing to avoid inconsistencies or pacing issues.

The inverted plot structure offers a dynamic way to craft incredible stories that challenge conventional storytelling norms. Whether you’re building suspense or showcasing character complexity, this technique can create a powerful impact when done thoughtfully. However, it demands meticulous planning, seamless connections between scenes, and an outcome intriguing enough to hook readers from the start.

If your story benefits from added layers of mystery and intrigue, an inverted plot could be the perfect fit. But remember, not every narrative needs an Inverted plot approach. Sometimes, a traditional linear timeline can be just as impactful if not more so, depending on the story’s goals.

Ultimately, the key lies in understanding your story’s unique requirements and choosing the structure that best serves its purpose. Whether you embrace the reverse storytelling technique or stick to a classic approach, the most important thing is to write what resonates with your readers!