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Man vs. Self: The Fight That Happens Inside Us All
Michael Adams
“We are our own dragons as well as our own heroes, and we have to rescue ourselves from ourselves.”
A conflict that is universally relatable, profound, and far away from the public eye is the battle we have within us. There are times when we are our own worst enemy – most people do not understand that the internal war we wage with ourselves may not be seen by others, but it is strongly felt by us. Sometimes, these inner conflicts multiply our insecurities or ask us to take a step back from our plans – making us believe that we are not ready for this, right?
This inner turmoil, although hard to deal with in real, is loved by readers in literature.
So why does this man vs. self-conflict captivate readers?
Because readers love those books that mirror our real lives.
Let’s explore in depth what character vs. self-conflict is in some of the famous examples of books and tips from top ghostwriting services on how you can interestingly incorporate this type of conflict into your writing.
Key Takeaways:
- Man vs. self-conflict taps into the most relatable aspect of storytelling—our inner struggles. It’s the reason flawed; vulnerable characters stay with us long after the story ends.
- From Hamlet’s moral hesitation to Katniss Everdeen’s impossible choices, these examples showcase some of the best men vs. self-conflicts in literature and film.
- Building nail-biting uncertainty that keeps readers hooked requires a well-executed man vs. self-conflict where both success and failure feel equally possible.
- A character’s inner battle is often rooted in their backstory. A strong foundation of past experiences makes their struggles—and their growth—feel authentic.
- While these conflicts are internal, they can have profound consequences on external elements, creating a ripple effect that blurs the line between the internal and external.
- The key is to let your character’s choices, dialogue, and behavior reflect their internal conflict.
- Perfect is boring. Real characters are like us—messy, vulnerable, and prone to making hasty decisions.
Man Vs. Self: The Conflict We All Relate To
Let’s be honest: literature would be terribly boring without conflict. Readers are drawn to characters who, like us, have to deal with inner turmoil and fear. As Nietzsche famously said, “The worst enemy you can meet will always be yourself.” The entire idea of being our own monsters is very relatable and creates the most complex yet relatable characters.
Many readers find it difficult to read the hardships their characters are going through, but these struggles and conflicts are necessary to keep the story engaging and entertaining. Man vs Self is one of the seven conflicts in literature, but it is the only one that talks about internal conflict. Such conflict is the core of many character arcs and adds depth and complexity to the characters. These imperfect characters who have to wrestle through doubts and insecurities to become the better version of themselves make the story more engaging.
Authors or professional ghostwriting services who capture these moments beautifully create an impactful story by offering readers a peek into the most intimate part of the human: the self.
Five Best Man Vs. Self Examples
1. Emma by Jane Austen
Jane Austen’s character, “Emma”, strongly believes that she knows what is best for her friends. This leads to her meddling in her friend’s lives, often also playing or acting out as matchmaking and telling them what they should or should not do. Initially, she does not realize how her meddling is negatively impacting her friends, but over time, she realizes that what seemed to be her “efforts to make friends’ lives better” has ended up hurting them rather than helping them.
This is when the person vs. self-conflict arrives as she struggles with this realization about herself. Although the novel has other conflicts, such as man vs. man and man vs. society, the highlight of the novel is Emma accepting that she was wrong and setting out on a journey to fix her mistakes. This is a fantastic man vs self example.
2. Black Swan
Those who love Natalie Portman must have watched “Black Swan.” It’s one of her most beautiful and Oscar-worthy performances. While we could write an entire blog post appreciating Natalie Portman, let’s get back to how Black Swan tapped into the man vs. self-narrative. Nina (Natalie Portman) plays the role of a talented ballerina who is desperate to land the lead in Swan Lake. She was eager to play both White Swan (that is characterized by innocence and fragility) and Black Swan (that is seductive and untamed).
As the story progresses, it shows that Nina plays White Swan perfectly because her overbearing mother has instilled perfectionism and discipline in her daughter, but for Black Swan, she has to bring out the intense and unrestrained side of herself. A side that she repressed for her entire life. One dialogue that particularly stands out in the movie, perfectly capturing the essence of man vs self, is delivered by her artistic director: “The only one standing in your way is you. It’s time to let her go. Lose yourself.”
3. Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Another great man vs self example is “Hamlet”. One of the most iconic Shakespeare’s novels. The inner battle of Hamlet is the perfect portrayal of the inner conflicts people have. His portrayal shows how one suffers from indecision and self-doubt. He struggles and fights with his conscience over taking revenge for his father’s death. During the story, you will read how Hamlet was torn between duty and morality.
His famous soliloquy, “To be, or not to be, that is the question,” shows this deep internal conflict. Usually, one might argue that his struggle was with external forces of the world, but what about his own hesitation, confusion, and guilt? These were his internal conflicts, which he was dealing with and suffering from.
4. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
If you are a sci-fi drama lover, then you must have read “The Hunger Games”. Based on the protagonist, Katniss, the story begins with her fighting and struggling to keep her family alive at all costs. Even when she witnesses the cruelty and injustices happening in District 12, she never really takes a stand. Since her motive was keeping her family safe, raising her voice against injustice can jeopardize the safety of her family.
Over the course of the trilogy, Katniss is repeatedly forced to choose between surviving and taking a stand for others. As readers, we see that the man vs. self-conflict Katniss faced was between two values she cared about the most: saving her family and fighting against the oppressive. The conflict that she faces is simple: both of these values are important, and she is not willing to give up both of these, but due to her circumstances, it becomes impossible for her to prioritize both.
5. Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk
Again, many people who have watched or read “Fight Club” will argue that the main conflict in this story appears to be man vs man. A conflict between the unnamed narrator and Tyler Durden. Tyler is a charismatic man who has a clear head and knows how to get what he wants, but the narrator is an insomniac who is looking for something to believe in. While the two men become friends, the clash begins as the narrator starts questioning Tyler’s decision.
Later, it is discovered that Tyler and the narrator are not two different people, but they are two different personalities within the same body. Tyler takes over when the narrator goes to sleep. This sets a very literal version of man vs. self-conflict. Even the external conflict that we read takes place inside the main character’s mind. All of these inner struggles were simply his manifestation.
Man Vs Self Stories – A Way of Self-Reflection for Readers?
In every novel or movie that shows character vs. self-conflict – one common thread beyond internal struggles is the self-reflection of readers.
These conflicts often force readers to question their own beliefs, emotions, and decisions. In a way, characters like Hamlet or Holden Caulfield serve as mirrors. These show the complexities of human nature and invite readers to examine their own journeys of self-understanding.
A quote by author Paulo Coelho underscores this connection: “The more in harmony you are with yourself, the more you can hear what is going on in the world.” Through literature, we explore the deep, sometimes uncomfortable, process of self-reflection. As readers, we connect with these characters and experience transformation and, in some cases, failure to reconcile with their and our inner conflicts.
Tips to Create an Impactful Men vs Self Conflict in Storytelling?
Top ghostwriting services know that a powerful character vs. self-conflict is a powerful tool to add depth and meaningful struggle to your character’s plot. With well-executed conflict, writers can raise thematic questions and the tension in their stories.
But the question remains – how can one master it?
For starters, you can begin by reading and taking inspiration from different authors. Now, we don’t mean to simply rip off what other authors have done. However, understanding how they have executed them to achieve character development can help to give you a head start. However, inspiration is not enough. This is why we have compiled some tips that can help you add this conflict to your writing.
1. Balance Characters Want vs Need
A powerful way to write a man vs. self-conflict is by using the “want vs. need“ approach. Start by giving your character something they want (an external goal that they believe will bring them happiness), and then introduce something they truly need (a more meaningful goal that will lead to their true growth). The key is to make sure both wants and needs are in conflict. This means that it is important to establish that the character cannot achieve both at the same time. This will create tension that will drive inner struggle.
Examples of a “want“:
- Gaining fame and recognition in their career
- Defeating a rival to prove their worth
- Winning the approval of a distant family member
Examples of a “need“:
- Learning to forgive themselves
- Overcoming their fear of failure
- Finding peace within their own identity
2. Create Win or Lose Tension
Ask yourself: What is the one thing about books that keeps us hooked and compels us to keep turning pages and reading until the very end? We will answer it for you; it is uncertainty. As readers, we want to know what happens. For person vs. self conflicts, writers must give character challenges where success and failure feel equally possible. This will be the pleasure that comes with knowing whether the protagonist overcame the conflict or if he lost. This will keep readers on edge. This uncertainty makes the conflict feel real and high staked.
3. Character’s Past Must Have Conflict
Yes, it is easier to say that we are our own enemy, but have you ever wondered – why? Think about it – would you prefer being your own enemy? Would you choose this struggle on purpose? Of course, No! Inner struggles and turmoil come from beliefs that are shaped by past experiences (difficult and painful ones). These drive internal conflict. As a writer, you must make the character’s backstory strong because it is the way for people to understand their inner struggle and the false belief or lie they have come to accept. Grounding the character’s conflict in their past, a realistic internal struggle draws readers in.
4. Include Symbolism for Conflict
Symbolism is a powerful tool where objects, images, or recurring motifs represent deeper meanings or themes. It can effectively portray a character’s inner conflict, giving abstract emotions a tangible form that resonates with readers.
For example, in Life of Pi by Yann Martel, the tiger, Richard Parker, symbolizes Pi’s inner survival instincts and his battle between fear and courage. As Pi struggles to coexist with the tiger while stranded at sea – it mirrors his internal fight to maintain hope and humanity in the face of despair. This symbolism adds depth to his conflict, making the story more meaningful.
5. Conflict Should Impact External Elements of the Plot
While man vs. self primarily revolves around the internal struggles of characters, ask yourself: do our internal conflicts only affect us? Has it ever happened that a decision you made due to an internal struggle impacted others around you? Similarly, when writing stories, ensure that the character’s choices have real consequences not only for themselves but also for those around them.
For example, in Spider-Man 2, Peter Parker struggles to balance his responsibilities as Spider-Man and his desire for a normal life. His decision to give up being Spider-Man impacts the city as crime rises and his loved ones face danger. This forces him to confront his doubts and ultimately embrace his role as a hero.
6. Show, Don’t Tell
While internal monologue is a great way to show inner conflict, overusing it can disengage readers. Characters who think too much and act too little risk losing the reader’s attention. Instead, writers should balance inner monologue with actions and dialogue. Writing dialogue that allows readers to read between the lines and uncover the conflict adds depth and keeps them engaged.
Action: In Hamlet, his delay in avenging his father shows his inner battle between doubt and duty. This reveals his fear and moral hesitation.
Dialogue: In The Catcher, Holden Caulfield often calls people “phony.” They used it to reflect his inner turmoil. For example, “It’s full of phonies, and all you do is make a lot of dough and play golf and play bridge and buy cars and drink Martinis and look like a hot shot.” This bitter remark highlights his disdain for the superficiality of adulthood and his struggle to reconcile his desire for authenticity with the realities of life.
Conclusion
Flawed is fun and real, so don’t be too nice or perfect about your characters. Keep them real. Man vs. self is a conflict rooted in vulnerability and growth. As a writer, your aim should be to capture it effectively so you can create stories that resonate. To truly engage readers, storytellers must portray this internal battle with empathy, patience, and authenticity.
When done right, man vs. self-conflict doesn’t just add depth to your characters—it breathes life into them. It draws readers into their journey, allowing them to see reflections of their own challenges and triumphs. These narratives touch hearts, inspire change, and perhaps even become bestsellers.
FAQs
What are some examples of man vs. self conflicts I can include in my story?
You can add moral dilemmas where a character must choose between two conflicting values. You can also build person vs. self-conflict on fear of failure, self-doubt, identity crisis or the girl, regret, and not being able to let go of the past.
Can a ghostwriting agency online help if I already have a rough draft?
Absolutely! A ghostwriter can help you refine your draft. They can improve character arcs, deepen internal conflicts, and ensure the story flows cohesively.
How do I make man vs. self-conflict stand out in my story?
Make the stakes personal! You must show that the internal battle impacts the character’s relationships, goals, and choices. Readers love stories where the outcome feels life-changing.
Do ghostwriters charge a flat fee or per word?
It depends on the type of project you are handing over. For longer books or projects that require significant research, a flat fee is more common, as it covers all aspects of the work. For shorter content, per-word rates are often preferred.
Can man vs. self-conflict be used in all genres?
Absolutely! Whether you’re writing fantasy, romance, thriller, or historical fiction, man vs. self can be used in all genres.
About Author
Hi My name is Micheal Adams, When I am not watching horror movies and helping my kids with homework or reading my favorite fantasy/supernatural novels – I’m writing to guide aspiring authors. I focus on exploring and simplifying both the technical aspects and the often-overlooked details of book writing and publishing so I can empower new writers to climb the Amazon bestseller list and connect with more readers.
