Cosmic Sadism is as valid a plot device as a Deux ex machina, but it should be pointed out that one of these terms was invented by me and the other has existed since 19 BCE.
For those not in the know, a Deux ex machina is a plot device that literally translates to "God from the machine" and used to indicate a person or event which provides a sudden, unexpected solution to a story. Generally, these are frowned upon;many see them them as a literary cop-out, done when the author lacks the imagination to properly conclude a story or resolve a conflict.
Conversely, Cosmic Sadism is when a series of extremely unlikely events (or normal events. Whatever) come together to cause an undue amount of woe upon a character. This often results in quests. I should elaborate, because I don't think I'm defending my fabricated term well.
Cosmic Sadism is so named because it often seems that no matter what you do, the Universe seems to be conspiring against you. It often results in quests because a great calamity (or just a massive inconvenience) has befallen the character and needs resolving. It's on the other side of the coin from a Deux ex machina because, while a Deux ex machina resolves a problem suddenly and without much precedent, Cosmic Sadism will create a problem that is needed to get the plot moving.
It's late, I'm tired. If you've got any questions on Cosmic Sadism, feel free to leave a comment below.
super sweet dude. you are obviously a skilled writer. I like this post a lot because you never actually mentioned a book, but its assumed that it had something to do with whatever you are reading. The idea you talked about, Deux ex machina, is one that i find very apparent not only in books as a cop out for a character or even the author but its also very apparent in real life. Synchronicity always happens in my life. Time works in such a timey wimey wibbly wobbly way that multiple things of the same nature just seem to fall into place. Thats one of the biggest reasons i believe this reality is an illusion. Im thankful that i dont experience this cosmic sadism though because that would be terrible. I find it real interesting that you are able to put this ideas together and create your own terminology so thanks bro
ReplyDelete