Use the setting to create physical discomfort, such as oppressive heat or cramped, dark spaces. 2. Music Production: The Sonic Buildup
Pose a critical mystery early on but delay the answer for as long as possible. tension
In music, tension is the perceived need for a "drop" or harmonic resolution. Use the setting to create physical discomfort, such
Pit two fully-formed characters against each other, where one can only win if the other loses. In music, tension is the perceived need for
Tension in stories keeps the audience asking questions and fearing for the characters.
To create "tension" as a central feature in your work, you need to deliberately establish an imbalance that demands resolution. Depending on your medium—writing, music, or design—the methods for building this "strain" vary:
Impose a strict deadline to force characters into desperate choices.