DU fiction writers/readers: Explain when best to introduce a McGuffin v a Deus ex machina.

[brush]

[Irish_Dem]

1. Wouldn't McG have to come early in the plot?

It serves no other purpose but gives meaning and direction to the plot.

And the DEM comes later to add interest and a twist.

[brush]

2. Ok, so the McG has to come first, no DEM early?

[Irish_Dem]

3. DEM is the resolution of the plot conflict?

So it would come later.

Be careful with it.
Some say it is lazy writing.

[brush]

4. Yes, DEM seems to suggest writer's inability to resolve the ending.

[Irish_Dem]

5. So uses a gimmick.

[Orrex]

6. She pointed at the McGuffin and said "Look, there's a McGuffin."

"Biggest McGuffin I ever saw," he agreed.

Then they fired up their Deus ex Machina and resolved the entire plot.

[brush]

9. In other words, ditch the obvious gimmicks.

[Orrex]

10. Well, I was mostly making fun of my own writing

Even an obvious gimmick used well is a worthy plot device, so don’t give my admonition more weight than it merits.

[Irish_Dem]

7. I think you should write the story you want to write.

If you are creative, and a good writer, write the story in your head, the way you want to write it.
Don't get bogged down in technique or what other people think you should do.

You are the artist, create your story.

[brush]

8. Good advice. Thank you.