each plot unit is itself a configuration of smaller entites called "affect states." Affect states do not attempt to describe complex emotional reactions or states of desire in the detail that inference mechanisms would require; they merely mark gross distinctions between "positive" events, "negative" events, and mental events of null or neutral emotionality.

plot units is a certain connectivity of words that holds together because of a strong causal presence in this multiplicity or because of an emotional state clearly conveyed within.

e.g.
The affect analysis for John and Mary reveal configurations of a trade-off from retaliation on the part of Mary, and a problem resolution leading to loss for John.' Ideally, one might expect good summaries to convey each of these four plot units (trade-off, retaliation, problem resolution, and loss).