If you're still having trouble seeing the premise for your story, consider your main character and answer the following questions. In Rocky , Rocky desires to feel that he is somebody. In The Hunt for Red October , Ramius, the story's main character, must defeat the communist system of oppression that denies him his freedom. Rocky's fulfillment is that he feels he is somebody . Ramius gains his freedom .
Scrooge is renewed .
Understanding the visible goal of your main character can be a way to discover the premise of your story. Keep in mind, however, that a premise present the core dramatic issue or idea that binds together all the characters and events in a story to a specific purpose. The actions of every character in Rocky are always tied directly into the story's premise. This makes their actions understandable and dramatic to the story's audience. While understanding what's at stake for your main character can be a path to finding your story premise, don't let your story premise describe only what's at stake for your main character, i.e., by having the courage to fight Apollo Creed, Rocky discovers a new sense of self esteem.