Characters & Conflict

Every character wants or needs something. Plot begins with characters facing obstacles to their goals.

Characters must take risks and overcome barriers. But even a fast-paced book that brims with push and shove of conflict can fall flat. Why?

Plots that jump from crisis to crisis become “episodic.” They feel hollow. As you develop plot, be sure to shape your characters by asking the crucial question–Why?

The inner desires and needs of characters should push their actions. For example: Why does Ebenezer Scrooge live a miserly life and refuse to go to his nephew’s home for Christmas? Why does Scarlett O’Hara marry men she doesn’t love? Ebenezer chased money to win his father’s approval and his nephew is a painful reminder of his sister who died. Scarlet’s first marriage was the result of her envy. After her husband’s death she flirted and pursued matrimony because of her fear of poverty.

When readers understand what motivates characters, even a simple plot becomes rich. The action within a plot should grab attention, but well-developed characters capture a reader’s heart and keep the pages turning.

Writing coach Lisa Hall Wilson stresses before readers care they must know “the why.” Picture a scene of a lone woman walking through a dark alley in a dangerous part of a city. Good descriptive writing might set the reader on edge. However, if the reader knows why the woman is in the alley–she was forced to work late and has to take a short cut because she has a sick child at home alone–the tension doubles. Knowing “the why” engages readers. We begin to care about the character and wants to know if she gets home safely. We keep reading.

In every scene, determine what is important right now to the character.  What is their goal and why? What’s the inner drive of your character?

Characters have goals. Plots offer conflict. But as you develop both, include the element of motivation. This forces you to dig into deeper points of view, and don’t be afraid to throw in a twist. Let characters misunderstand the motivation behind other characters’ actions.

Have you ever been surprised to discover why a person or character acted as they did? It can make a good story.

Happy Writing!

Gretchen Carlson

http://gretchen-carlson.com gretchencarlsonwriter@gmail.com