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What is the Conflict of 'The Roller Coaster' by Shelby Ostergaard?

Published in Character Conflict 3 mins read

The primary conflict in Shelby Ostergaard's story, "The Roller Coaster," focuses on a child named Hudson, who grapples with his profound anxieties about riding roller coasters and his concerns regarding how others might perceive his fear. This creates a multifaceted struggle that is both internal and external.

Understanding the Core Conflict

Shelby Ostergaard's narrative skillfully explores the personal challenges Hudson faces, intertwining his inner turmoil with the social pressures he feels.

1. Internal Conflict: Person vs. Self

Hudson's central battle is against his own mind and emotions. This internal conflict represents his personal struggle with fear and self-doubt.

  • Profound Anxiety: Hudson experiences significant and deep-seated anxiety when faced with the prospect of riding roller coasters. This is more than simple apprehension; it is a substantial emotional barrier.
  • Confronting Fear: The core of the story involves Hudson's personal journey to confront, and potentially overcome, this intense fear. His struggle highlights universal themes of courage, resilience, and the challenge of facing deeply unsettling experiences.

2. External Conflict: Person vs. Society/Others

Beyond his personal anxieties, Hudson also navigates a subtle yet impactful external conflict related to social perception and the fear of judgment from others.

  • Fear of Judgment: Hudson is concerned about how his fear or reluctance to ride might be viewed by those around him, such as peers or family members. This can manifest as:
    • Worry about being seen as "weak" or "cowardly."
    • Pressure to conform to group expectations or to participate in activities that others enjoy.
    • The desire to maintain a certain image of bravery or coolness, even when feeling vulnerable.

Breakdown of Conflict Elements in "The Roller Coaster"

To further clarify the intertwined nature of the conflict, consider the following breakdown:

Conflict Type Description Hudson's Specific Struggle in the Story
Internal (Self) A psychological struggle within a character's own mind. Battling his severe anxiety and fear associated with roller coasters.
External (Society) A struggle between a character and an outside force or societal norms. Worrying about how his fear will be perceived by others and impact his image.

Why This Conflict Resonates

The conflict presented in "The Roller Coaster" is highly relatable because it taps into universal human experiences:

  • Facing Personal Fears: The narrative effectively portrays the universal challenge of confronting something that genuinely frightens an individual.
  • Navigating Social Expectations: It highlights the common pressure, especially for children, to fit in, perform, and meet the perceived expectations of their social group.
  • Journey of Self-Acceptance: Ultimately, Hudson's conflict sets the stage for a story about personal growth, self-discovery, and the journey toward self-acceptance, regardless of external validation.

By expertly weaving these internal and external battles, Shelby Ostergaard creates a compelling narrative that explores courage, vulnerability, and the intricate dynamics of human perception.