When a domino is tipped ever-so-slightly, it initiates a sequence that leads to much greater—and sometimes catastrophic—consequences. This is called the Domino Effect. And the same can be said for any action that prompts other actions.
When it comes to writing, this principle applies to the way in which we plot our stories. Whether we compose our manuscripts off the cuff or follow a more structured outline, there’s really just one question that needs answering: What happens next? Consider using the Domino Effect to help you answer this question in a clear and compelling manner.
To understand how the Domino Effect works, let’s look at an example. Say that you tip a domino, and the first piece of the line falls. As it tumbles, some of its potential energy converts to kinetic energy, which enables it to push over the next domino in line—and the next, and the next, until all the pieces have fallen.
Depending on how you arrange the pieces, the results can be as simple or as complex as desired. For instance, many people use domino sets to create patterns of lines and shapes. Others use them for games like chess, checkers, or backgammon. And still others use them to teach children math skills.
Dominoes are usually made from a material that is both durable and attractive, such as bone, silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl), ivory, or dark hardwoods like ebony. These materials are also often adorned with contrasting black or white pips, which can either be inlaid or painted on the surface of each piece. Some more exotic sets are made from natural stone, such as marble or granite; metals, such as brass or pewter; and ceramic clay.
As for the word itself, it has roots that are both English and French. The term appears in both languages around 1750. Its most likely origin is the name of a type of long, hooded cloak worn together with a mask during carnival season or at a masquerade. In an earlier sense, the word could even have referred to the cape that a priest wears over his surplice.
While we’ve all seen domino constructions, most of us have probably never stopped to think about how those arrangements were put together. But Hevesh has, and her process is very similar to how engineering designers create their masterpieces. She starts by considering a theme or purpose for her domino installation, then brainstorms images or words that might convey the message. She then starts placing dominoes in a pattern to match her vision, using a process called “stitching.”