Tension is the second-most critical element of a successful story—the first being a relatable, engaging main character. Tension, also known as drama or conflict (in the broadest sense of the word,) is what makes the reader turn the page. It is the emotional driver of the story. Tension must be organic, and it must be specific. Don’t blindfold your reader. Vague descriptions or intentional obfuscation of details does not create tension. How Tension Drives the Story Characters