Mariner Software Contour for Mac - Manual (Page 63)

Act II -- 14 YES-NOs 6 THROUGH 7
In these next 2 pairs of reversals of Act II, known as “When Life Gives You Lemons. . .” in the Guide Pane, several land-
marks occur:
The threat to the stakes character increases to the point of Life or Death (literal or figurative.)
The third act solution is shown, though the significance of it is likely lost on the hero at this time.
The opposite value of the theme is clearly stated (“Hokey religions are no substitute for a good blaster, kid.”)
The hero knows all of the rules (or thinks he/she does) and wandering further will not help the hero to learn more.
The villainʼs plan is explained either to the hero, by the hero, or to others.
Time to fight, to enter the villainʼs world, or the world in which the villain will be encountered.
Act II -- 14 YES-NOs 8 THROUGH 10
In these next three pairs of reversals of second half of Act II, known as “. . .make Lemonade” in the Guide
Pane, several landmarks occur:
The hero will have shifted into action, making decisions (for better or worse) in the now active and direct attempt to
resolved the Central Question.
The hero will meet with some initial success.
The villain/opposing force will tighten the screws on the heroʼs goal.
The thematic question will be raised and heightened, often with one character expressing the pro argument of the
theme while a different character expresses the opposing thematic argument. The hero will bounce between both
viewpoints.
Possibly unknowingly, the hero will prepare for his or her big change.
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