Action

Introduction

The term “action” in literature refers to any physical or verbal deed performed by a character, which is central to the plot’s development. Unlike passive descriptions or internal reflections, actions are dynamic and directly influence the course of the story. This literary device is essential as it drives the narrative forward, reveals character traits and motivations, and often sets the stage for future events. Through action, writers can show rather than tell, providing a vivid experience for the reader and creating a more engaging and immersive story.

Pronunciation: ˈæk.ʃən

When Do Writers Use Action Literary Device?

Writers employ the action literary device primarily to propel the narrative and keep the reader engaged. Action sequences are crucial in genres like adventure, thriller, and fantasy, where they heighten suspense and excitement. However, action is equally important in quieter, more introspective genres like drama or romance, where smaller actions can reveal deep insights into character psychology or push the plot forward subtly. Using action effectively helps maintain pacing, develop characters, and evoke emotional responses from the audience.

How Should I Use Action Literary Device?

To effectively use the action literary device in your writing, consider these rules:

1. Ensure Relevance: Every action should serve a purpose, whether it’s to advance the plot, reveal character traits, or create suspense. Avoid gratuitous actions that don’t enhance the story.
2. Vary the Pace: Mixing intense action scenes with slower, more deliberate actions can help control the pacing of your narrative and keep readers engaged without overwhelming them.
3. Show, Don’t Tell: Use actions to show what your character is feeling or thinking instead of relying on descriptions. This approach can make your characters more relatable and the story more compelling.
4. Maintain Clarity: While action scenes can be complex, clarity should never be sacrificed. Ensure that your reader can visualize what’s happening and understand its significance to the story.
5. Align with Character Development: Actions should be consistent with the character’s motivations and personality. Any change in behavior should be justified by the character’s growth or specific circumstances within the story.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can use action as a powerful tool to enhance your storytelling.

Types of Action

In literature, actions can be categorized into several types, each serving distinct narrative functions:

1. Physical Action: This involves characters engaging in physical activities, such as running, fighting, or gestures. It’s the most direct and vivid form of action, often used in scenes requiring visual drama or intensity.
2. Verbal Action: Dialogue can also be considered an action, especially when it propels the plot forward, reveals key character traits, or builds tension. Verbal action includes arguments, declarations of love, threats, and other significant exchanges.
3. Mental Action: Though less overt, decisions or changes in a character’s thoughts also constitute action. These are pivotal moments that affect the character’s trajectory and are crucial in psychological dramas or thrillers.
4. Symbolic Action: Actions that have symbolic meanings beyond their literal sense can add depth to the narrative. For example, a character giving another a key can represent opening up or sharing access to something personal or valuable.
5. Reactive Action: How characters react to events around them can also drive the story. These reactions can be physical or emotional and are essential for showing character development.

Action in Literature

Famous examples of action in literature often involve critical plot points that are both memorable and pivotal to the narrative:

1. “The Odyssey” by Homer: The epic is filled with Odysseus’ adventures, where each action—from escaping the Cyclops to navigating past the Sirens—crucially drives the epic forward.
2. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: The tense courtroom scenes where Atticus Finch takes decisive action to defend Tom Robinson are central to the novel’s commentary on racial injustice.
3. “Harry Potter Series” by J.K. Rowling: The series is replete with actions defining the characters and the storyline, like Harry’s decision to face Voldemort, which frames the series’ climax.
4. “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins: Katniss Everdeen’s actions in the arena, which range from strategic alliances to combat, critically shape the trilogy’s themes and her character development.

Action in Children’s Books

In children’s literature, action is often used to teach lessons, entertain, and hold the child’s attention:

1. “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak: Max’s journey to the land of the Wild Things involves actions that embody childhood freedom and adventure.
2. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle: The caterpillar’s constant eating—an action that is repetitive and engaging—effectively teaches days of the week and the concept of metamorphosis.
3. “Curious George” by H.A. Rey and Margret Rey: George’s actions, often driven by curiosity, lead to various adventures and mishaps, teaching lessons about cause and effect.
4. “Peter Pan” by J.M. Barrie: Peter’s numerous adventures flying and fighting pirates captivate young readers’ imaginations.

Action in Poetry

In poetry, action is used to create imagery, convey emotions, and emphasize messages:

1. “The Charge of the Light Brigade” by Alfred Lord Tennyson: This poem vividly describes the valiant action of cavalrymen charging into battle, highlighting themes of valor and tragedy.
2. “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” by Robert Frost: The simple action of stopping to watch the snow fall deep in the woods conveys profound feelings of peace and contemplation.
3. “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” by William Wordsworth: The action of wandering and the movement of the daffodils blowing in the wind are central to the poem’s imagery of nature’s beauty.

These examples show how action in literature, whether in narrative or poetic form, serves to engage, inform, and move the audience.

Action in Songs

Songs often use action to tell a story, create a mood, or evoke an emotional response. Here are ten famous examples where action plays a pivotal role in the song’s narrative:

1. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen – Describes the actions of running away and escaping the confines of a small town for freedom.
2. “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor – Uses action words related to fighting and competition, inspiring resilience and determination.
3. “Beat It” by Michael Jackson – Focuses on the action of fighting and standing up to violence.
4. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman – Narrates actions of driving away from troubles towards a better life.
5. “Hotel California” by The Eagles – The actions of arriving, dancing, and remembering set a mysterious and eerie tone.
6. “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele – Describes actions that paint a picture of deep emotional betrayal and the aftermath.
7. “Thunderstruck” by AC/DC – Recounts the electrifying actions of a stormy encounter, emphasizing the impact of nature’s forces.
8. “Roar” by Katy Perry – Tells of actions that symbolize personal empowerment and finding one’s voice.
9. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA – Celebrates the joyful actions of dancing and feeling alive in the moment.
10. “Walk This Way” by Aerosmith – Illustrates various playful and provocative actions in a flirtatious narrative.

Action in Movies

Action sequences are a staple of many films, often providing memorable and visually stunning moments. Here are some famous examples:

1. “Die Hard” – John McClane’s various escapes, fights, and explosive tactics against terrorists.
2. “Mad Max: Fury Road” – The entire film is a high-octane chase filled with combat, driving, and survival actions.
3. “The Matrix” – Neo’s slow-motion bullet dodge has become one of the most iconic action sequences.
4. “Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark” – Indiana Jones escaping from a rolling boulder is a quintessential action moment.
5. “John Wick” – John Wick’s intense fight sequences and tactical gunplay define modern action cinema.
6. “Gladiator” – Maximus’ battles in the arena, showcasing skillful combat and strategic prowess.
7. “Mission Impossible” series – Ethan Hunt’s daring stunts, including the famous Burj Khalifa climb.
8. “Jurassic Park” – The terrifying actions of running and hiding from dinosaurs.
9. “Aliens” – Ellen Ripley battling the Queen Alien in a power loader suit.
10. “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” – The motorcycle chase and the T-1000’s relentless pursuit.

Famous Movie Line Highlighting Action

“I’ll be back.” – Arnold Schwarzenegger as Terminator in “Terminator”. This line is delivered just before the character returns to engage in a dramatic and action-packed scene, making it one of the most memorable lines in film history related to impending action.

YouTube Link of a Movie Clip Demonstrating Action

Here is a YouTube link to a movie clip demonstrating action: Terminator 2: Judgment Day – The T-1000 Chase Scene

Action in Advertising

Action is also a common element in advertising, used to grab attention and highlight product benefits:

1. Nike – “Just Do It” campaigns often feature athletes in action, emphasizing performance and endurance.
2. Red Bull – Known for ads showing extreme sports actions that align with the brand’s image of energy and adventure.
3. GoPro – Advertisements usually consist of intense action footage from cameras, showcasing the product’s durability and quality.
4. Audi – Car commercials displaying the vehicle’s handling and performance through high-speed chases and sleek driving actions.
5. Old Spice – Commercials with rapid, humorous actions that transition through various fantastical scenarios, emphasizing the product’s appeal.

Action Related Literary Devices

Action in literature can be enhanced by several related literary devices:

1. Conflict – Drives the narrative action by presenting challenges or opposition that the protagonist must overcome.
2. Climax – The point of highest tension in a story, often the moment of most significant action.
3. Suspense – Builds the audience’s anticipation of upcoming actions, often used to keep readers/viewers engaged.
4. Foreshadowing – A method of hinting at future actions that will take place, creating anticipation and layering the narrative.
5. Pacing – Controls the speed and rhythm of the narrative, which can be accelerated by action sequences to enhance excitement or tension.

These devices help to structure and emphasize the impact of action within a story, making it more dynamic and engaging for the audience.