A small rectangular block used as a gaming object, usually 28 in a set. Also called bones, cards, men, pieces, or tiles, each domino has a line across its face to divide it visually into two squares, with one bearing an arrangement of spots resembling those on dice and the other blank or identically patterned. Each square carries a value, normally six to ten, although the top of each domino can be either blank or marked with more or less than seven spots. Each domino in a typical set is stamped with the numbers 1 through 6, but larger sets may be stamped with Arabic numerals.
Dominoes are used in a variety of games to determine who wins the turn, or set. A player lays (or stacks) a domino with its value against another, then the other players try to follow suit by placing their own dominoes in such a way that they will fall when tipped by a player after them. The goal is to reach a particular point, often the end of the board or table, before the opponent does.
The most popular domino game in the United States is called Draw and Go, and it is played by two or more players. The rules of the game are simple, and the first player to reach the end of the board or a specified number wins the turn. A variation of this game is called Double Dutch. This version is played with the same rules but fewer dominoes, and each player plays two turns alternately.
If you’ve ever watched a professional domino builder, such as the famous Chris Hevesh, in action, you have likely marveled at the sheer magnitude of the work that goes into building some of these incredible creations. Hevesh isn’t simply a skilled artist; she uses science to ensure that her intricate domino displays will tumble correctly.
When Hevesh creates a new design, she makes test versions and films them in slow motion to ensure that all of the pieces will work together. She’s even created a special domino simulator to test out potential problems before she attempts any major installation.
In the same way, a writer must consider how her scenes are going to fit together. Whether you use a program like Scrivener to help you plot your novel, or write it by the seat of your pants, effective storytelling requires that your scenes flow smoothly and coherently. If there are hiccups or a break in logic, it will be obvious to your readers and they’ll stop reading. Like a row of carefully arranged dominoes, your story should have a clear and cohesive structure that takes your readers on a smooth journey toward the climax.