The key to great characters
Happy Writing Advice Wednesday,
Here are 3 ideas, 2 quotes, and 1 question to explore this week...
3 Ideas From Me
I.
"Plot and character are not separate elements. Character choices shape the plot; the plot shapes the character. Claiming to write a ‘character-focused’ story, or only caring about the plot – both approaches neglect the truth: that both elements are interwoven, and exist in unison with each other."
II.
"A simple structure to ensure each chapter has forward momentum: hook, problem, solution, consequence. Hook: grab the reader’s attention. Problem: what obstacle stands between your character and his desire? Solution: the character tries to beat this obstacle. Consequence: the solution makes things worse or leads to different problems, further raising the stakes."
III.
"A character can only be as interesting as the forces that oppose her. If your main character faces easy obstacles, you will have a boring character. However, if her obstacles push her to the limits of her ability – if your antagonist forces her to question her deepest beliefs, to risk her very soul – then you will have an interesting character. The greater the antagonist, the greater the protagonist."
2 Quotes From Others
I.
“What would [your character] risk his life for? His soul for? What deep beliefs hold his world together?” – Robert McKee, Character.
II.
“Stopping a piece of work just because it’s hard, either emotionally or imaginatively, is a bad idea. Sometimes you have to go on when you don’t feel like it, and sometimes you’re doing good work when it feels like all you’re managing is to shovel shit from a sitting position.” – Stephen King, On Writing.
1 Question For You
Why will it be impossible to stop reading after your first chapter?