The Complexity Curse strikes again!

I always do it. I always think my script doesn’t have enough happening, doesn’t have enough scenes, and doesn't have enough words describing the action.

I’m always wrong.

In storytelling, complexity can be an asset and a liability. Complex narratives can offer rich, immersive experiences, but they can also become unwieldy or confusing for the reader and the audience. Complexity theory, which studies how components within systems interact to create the whole, can offer relevant insights for scribblers in need of managing unwieldy narratives.

Just as complex mechanical systems, software, and social constructs exhibit emergent properties, a story can have themes or messages that emerge from the interplay of its elements. If you have too many characters or subplots, this core message or theme can get lost.

Complex systems adapt to their environments. Likewise, a story may need to adapt based on the constraints of the medium (e.g., a two-hour film vs. a TV series) and audience feedback.

Clarity is king (or queen). In storytelling, nonlinearity can manifest as flashbacks, parallel storylines, or unexpected twists. While these can add depth, they can confuse the audience unless mindfully managed.

In complex systems, feedback loops help systems adapt or stabilize. In storytelling, this can be likened to recurring motifs or character arcs that provide narrative cohesion. Too many of these loops can muddle the story.

Just as complexity theory examines the relationships between various network nodes, you could look at your characters and subplots as nodes and edges in your narrative network. If this network becomes too complex, it may be hard for the audience to follow the connections.

To mitigate rising narrative complexity, consider the practical applications used by successful engineers and entrepreneurs to keep their creations laser-focused.

Use the principle of Occam's razor to eliminate unnecessary characters or subplots that don't serve the main narrative or themes: “Non sunt multiplicanda entia sine necessitate.” ("Entities are not to be multiplied without necessity.")

Identify the key components that are essential for the emergent properties you want in your story. Make sure every subplot or character you add serves these core elements.

As complex systems adapt function and design based on feedback, consider sharing your story with a trusted group to identify any areas of narrative confusion or unnecessary complexity.

It’s critical to maintain a balance between complexity and simplicity. Too much of the former can make a story dull, while too much of the latter can make it confusing.

Consider developing your story in phases, allowing for adjustments as you iterate. This is akin to how complex systems adapt and evolve over time.

Having a character acknowledge the complexity within the story itself can be a narrative device. This self-referential approach can sometimes help the audience navigate the complexity. This meta-narrative approach might not fit the tone of every story or genre, but sometimes, it’ll get you out of scribbler jail.

We might not be building space shuttles, democratic systems, or new economic models, but the techniques used by the brilliant folks who do are worth considering.

Keep it simple, my fellow scribblers—KISS!