In the story "A Meeting in the Dark," John's character advances the plot and communicates the theme through each of the following conflicts except
- Conflict with societal norms: John's decision to have a secret relationship with the girl from the neighboring village goes against the societal norms of their community. This conflict helps to develop the plot by driving John and the girl to meet in secret, and it communicates the theme of forbidden love.
- Conflict with his own conscience: John struggles with the guilt of breaking societal norms and deceiving his father about his actions. This internal conflict helps to advance the plot by adding tension to John's relationship with the girl, and it communicates the theme of inner turmoil.
- Conflict with his father: John's father disapproves of his relationship with the girl and believes it will bring shame to their family. This conflict helps to move the plot forward by creating obstacles for John and the girl, and it communicates the theme of generational conflict.
- Conflict with the girl's family: The girl's family is against her relationship with John and tries to keep them apart. This conflict helps to advance the plot by adding external obstacles for John and the girl to overcome, and it communicates the theme of class and social differences.