Conflict is a struggle between forces in a story. It is the essential element that drives the plot and creates tension and suspense. Conflict can be internal, such as a character’s struggle with their own conscience, or external, such as a character’s struggle against an antagonist. Internal conflicts often stem from conflicting desires: the desire for power, survival, or love. External conflicts may involve physical threats, social issues, or moral dilemmas.
Conflict is important in a story because it creates tension and suspense, and drives the plot forward. Without conflict, a story would be flat and uninteresting. Conflict can also be used to develop characters and explore complex themes. For example, a story about a character who struggles with addiction can explore the themes of temptation, weakness, and redemption. Conflict can also be used to create social commentary, by exploring issues such as racism, poverty, or war.