Blog 3

 

In the narrative essay, “The Trick: Notes Toward a Theory of Plot” (2017), Marilyn Abildskov explores the ulterior motives the main character has behind caring for her sick friend. In this work, the author provides many causes why human want to feel needed by others and how we would do inconceivable things to fulfill this longing inside of us. Abildskov uses the interactions of main character in the story to display how ulterior motives are part of human nature. People are always hiding their actions and choices. The intended audience of the essay consist of people that enjoy reading stories with plots that makes them reflect about humanity.

Something that we gathered from this composition includes how the author connected with the audience through the sentiments of pity toward the main character. We understood that the same character planned the entire plot. He also manipulated our perspectives about the narrative. The teacher was sick. She suffered from the same symptoms as her friend, but she remained able to contain herself. That is why she obsessed with caring for him. She needed a reason to exist and not take her life, which is what we interpreted from her sarcastic comments towards Isabel.

She needed a perfect charity work that could prove how valuable she was, and she didn’t want anyone to intervene with her plot. We also liked how Abildskov presented the plot of the story and provided the readers with something to reflect on simultaneously. We think it's a great strategy for writers to learn how to construct a plot that is both interesting and flexible enough to develop characters that would intrigue audiences with their flawed nature. If we produce reflective thoughts like Abildskov’s essay, then our work as writers was well done.

 You can learn more about Marilyn Abildskov here: 
https://www.encyclopedia.com/arts/educational-magazines/abildskov-marilyn-1961