The power of a short story, such as “Rogue Wave,” comes from its actions and events. Most stories follow a series of events, also known as the plot. A story centers around the c onflict, the struggle between opposing forces. As the characters struggle to resolve a conflict, the plot builds suspense, the growing tension and excitement felt by the reader. Most plots have five stages: ★ The exposition introduces the characters and presents the setting and conflict. ★ The rising action presents complications that intensify. ★ The climax is the story’s moment of greatest interest - the point where the conflict of resolved. ★ In the falling action, the story begins to draw to a close. ★ The resolution reveals the final outcome of the conflict. Often the plot is influenced by the setting, or the time and place of the action. For example, the setting can cause plot complications. In “Rogue Wave,” Sully notes that as evening comes, the fading light could hamper his rescue efforts. To understand the influence of setting on the plot in “Rogue Wave,” find details that tell where and when the events are happening. Use those details to visualize the setting and follow the action. Exposition: Sully is outside the capsized boat where there is plenty of light and air. But he wants to get into the boat to free his sister. Scoot is below in the darkness with limited air. She wants to get to the surface. So, the settings separate the two characters, underscoring the external conflict. Rising Action: Scoot is in total darkness, so she can’t see what she’s doing or where things are. She has a headache. She finally realizes that the cabin where she is trapped is upside down, which makes her disoriented. Finally, when she tries to open the entry doors, she can’t. Climax: Sully is finally giving up hope. Scoot is on her sixth dive. She gives one final push “with all her strength” and the skylight finally opens! Scoot is almost out of breath - about to lose consciousness - but has resolved her conflict. Falling Action: Resolution: Sully answers Stevens’s question with just two words: “rogue wave.” Stevens winces and nods because that is all he needs to hear - a rogue wave is so sudden and destructive, it goes without saying that it causes massive problems. ... Sully and Scoot survive the “Rogue Wave
