Man vs. Self Story Conflict

Of all the story conflicts, Man vs. Self is the most internal, and often the most powerful. Here, the main character’s greatest obstacle is their own mind, their own fear, their own flaw. It’s the human condition but dramatized.

The Emotional Core

This conflict often reveals the inner struggle that prevents the character from becoming who they’re meant to be. It might be self-doubt, guilt, addiction, grief, fear of change, or other fears that they wrestle with. The story turns when the protagonist confronts themselves and decides whether to rise or fall.

Modern Examples

A Beautiful Mind (film): Mathematician John Nash battles schizophrenia and the illusion of control.

Black Swan (film): A ballerina descends into madness as she tries to embody perfection at the cost of her own identity.

The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath: A young woman spirals into depression, confronting societal pressures and her internal breakdown.

BoJack Horseman (series): A washed-up actor wrestles with his self-destructive choices, addiction, fame, and the question of whether true change is possible.

Writing Tip: The Inner Conflict Drives the Arc

Even in external stories, internal change is what makes the story resonate with readers. Internal change is the need.

A protagonist might face an enemy, a storm, or a corrupt system, but if they also face their own darkness, their victory becomes deeply earned. This is the arc readers remember. Because power over others is nothing compared to power over the self.

Coming Next:

In our next post, we’ll explore Man vs. Technology, where humanity grapples with the very tools it creates.

Happy Writing!

~ M.C. Convery