/lit/ - Literature

>>10375040
I'm not sure if I'm catching your meaning, but it could be sleep deprivation.

Up until the climax, the plot and character arcs follow the typical formula and beats. MC gets much more than a stubbed toe along the way. But the MC does get what they wanted as a result of their actions. Its just, getting there may have resulted in more detriment than benefit.

Think about the final act of Return of the Jedi. Remember how the Death Star II starts blowing up Rebellion ships, before Lando helps blow it up?
Imagine a version in which, for whatever reason, so much of the Rebellion is lost, that by the time you blow up the Death Star, you're left wondering if the price is worth what you bought. Something that would leave the readers thinking, "was there really no better way?"
I want the readers to feel distraught, but eager to know what happens next. (but they'll have to wait for Book 2, haha suckers)

I'm worried about fucking up that balance.