Consider Forster’s comments (Writing Fiction 143) on how causality is the primary difference between “story” and “plot.” How effective is Gaiman’s technique for showing causality? From a plot standpoint, Gaiman’s novel has a conflict-crisis-resolution model in which a pattern of power appears to dominate. On a metaphorical level, however, it might be about deeper issues. How might the narrator’s conflict with Ursula be an allegory for something else? In numbered sentences, do a reverse plot outline of The Ocean at the End of the Lane. You should be able to find roughly 30-60 plot points over the course of the novel, just with finding the big “dominoes” of action. You can go even more microscopic if you wish. (The word count requirements do not apply to this prompt—just make sure to list 30-60 plot points in the proper order).