How to Write a Fight Scene (in 11 Steps)

They say write what you know but what if you are doing something that you have no experience with? For example a really intense fight scene, because all fights scenes should be intense. On the Better Novel Project, breaks down what makes a good fight scene. What are your tricks for a gripping fight scene?

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How to Write a Fight Scene (in 11 Steps)

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I recently received this e-mail about fight scenes:

Do you have any advice for creating a fight? I am writing an action/fantasy novel, and I am inexperienced with this particular type of scene. Thank you for any advice you may have! -Sara

Thanks for the question, Sara! I agree that its tough to “write what you know” when most of us have never been in a life-or-death physical brawl with a fantasy villain.

Let’s lay out the blow-by-blow action in these three fight scenes to see what similarities we can find:

  • Harry Potter’s fight against Quirrell/Voldemort in Harry Potter & The Sorcerer’s Stone (Ch. 17).
  • Bella Swan’s fight against James (the tracker vampire) in Twilight (Ch. 22).
  • Katniss Everdeen’s fight against Clove (District 2 girl tribute) in The Hunger Games (Ch. 21).

What Actually Happens in a Fight Scene

Read the full post on Better Novel Project

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