You want to bring more depth and complexity to your characters so that readers are interested and invested in what happens to them.
But how do you do that?
In this episode, I’m sharing three ways to create deeper, more fascinating characters. These are often things I see lacking in student manuscripts, especially those more focused on plot.
Plot and character really can’t be separated. But before you plot, you need to know who your story is about, and what makes him or her tick.
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Episode at a glance:
[01:43] 1. Meaningful Conflict.
Conflict simply means your main character wants something and encounters problems getting it. To make it meaningful, your character must want it intensely. You also want to know what your other main characters want. And those wants should clash.
[04:33] 2. Motive
You may know what your characters want. But why do they want it? What’s driving them beyond their own awareness? This is what we mean by cause and effect. Characters are motivated to move through your story. And you want to know what’s driving them.
[10:57] 3. Arc of Change
You never want static characters. A story thrives on the change and growth in your characters – particularly your protagonist.
Links mentioned in this episode:
Episode 174: 3 Essential Elements For Structuring Act One
Episode 175: Charting Your Story’s Major Plot Points
Little Children by Tom Perrotta
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