Formalists’ Approach to “Plot” and “Fabula”

Abstract

Work on the plot and fabula, as a rule, begins with a theme, to a certain extent predetermined by the idea of the work. Each writer has his own thematic preferences due to the circumstances of his private and creative life. With the theme comes the fabula or, most often, its main points (plot scheme), the backbone, which gradually acquires the “meat” of the plot material. The fabula schemes, outlines of future full-blooded plots are often prepared by writers for future use, calling ahead of time plots. Sources for acquiring plot material are as diverse as life itself. This may be, first of all, the personal experience of the writer, who not only sits at his desk, but also lives in the colorful world around him.