It's Day 9 of Nanowrimo, and by now you might be--dare I say it--getting a little tired of your story. Not to worry; it's time for a subplot.
Today is the day for the B story to begin. The B story is often a relationship--in fact, it's often a love interest--but it doesn't have to be. The reason why it frequently appears in the form of a person is because it's the personal side of the story. It's the part of the story that will address the main character's inner problem.
Today is the day for the B story to begin. The B story is often a relationship--in fact, it's often a love interest--but it doesn't have to be. The reason why it frequently appears in the form of a person is because it's the personal side of the story. It's the part of the story that will address the main character's inner problem.
So far, your story has probably been focusing on the outer problem: how is your protagonist going to save the world (or do whatever it is he's trying to do)? For a little while you get to take a break from that--probably a relief at this point--and focus on his other problem.
What is it that your protagonist really needs from this story? A friend? To be less selfish? Inner peace? The B story will help him find it.
In the Lego Batman movie, Batman needs to learn that everyone needs help from other people sometimes--even Batman.
What is it that your protagonist really needs from this story? A friend? To be less selfish? Inner peace? The B story will help him find it.
In the Lego Batman movie, Batman needs to learn that everyone needs help from other people sometimes--even Batman.
So what happens in the B story? He gets stuck with Robin.
As the protagonist's inner conflict is gradually resolved through the B story, he becomes better equipped​ to deal with his outer conflict--saving the world, or whatever it is. Therefore, the B story is immensely important, even though it's just a subplot.
Maybe your character needs a Robin by his side before he can defeat the Joker. This is your chance to find out as you explore the B story.
Maybe your character needs a Robin by his side before he can defeat the Joker. This is your chance to find out as you explore the B story.