Character is everything
We build character in kids from a young age, because real-life character is everything.
What about fiction?
The way I see it, fiction contains three elements that divide into many other, but three main components:
1. Character
2. Plot
3. Setting
In my book — literal and figurative — character is number one.
Sure, there are great plot-driven novels with little character development. Their success isn’t due to lack of character growth but excellent plot that is engrossing from the jump. The Maze Runner, a YA dystopian, is an example. Very plot-driven.
But back to my number one: character-driven fiction.
It’s advertised as a literary-fiction element. But, oh, how I disagree. Character-driven writing works superbly for genre fiction. Take Gone Girl, for one. Relationship drives the plot, sure, but the gradual revelation of characters, that’s what makes the story.
My kind of gig — stories with characters that become complicated people. Where personal evolution and character decisions shape the plot. Where writers develop the heck out of characters traits and together with plot cook up and serve magnificent stories.
And since you’re dying to know my A-Z Theme, here it is:
FICTIONAL CHARACTER TRAITS
No lectures, no writing advice. I’m sure there is enough of that coming at you fast. Just an accumulation of references, if you will. All in one place, right here.
No long articles. It’s my third or fourth A-Z Challenge. I’m familiar with the craziness about to ensue. There will be images, brief descriptions and examples. That’s it.
So, come talk character. Add your favorite trait(s), name your fave characters, or simply talk fiction. Or life. Or whatever.
Okay? Awesome. Onward to the April A-Z, dear blogging friend!
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Images: Pixabay
Sounds like a great theme for the A-Z, Silvia! I’m not doing the Challenge, but I’ll be by often to catch up on your posts. I’m with you: character-driven fiction is it for me. And you’re spot-on when you say that it’s not exclusive to lit-fic. One of the reasons I enjoy Stephen King is that he tends to give his characters a three-dimensionality that is often lacking in most thrillers.
Looking forward to your series!
Guilie @ Quiet Laughter
Thanks so much, Guilie. Wish you were taking the ride with us, but I understand. I’ll be watching your blog for announcements. Exciting. And yes, character, real life and fiction. With you on King. He’s showing us how it’s done.
I totally agree, Silvia. All three are necessary, but character is #1 for me, too. Stories with strong characters are the ones I love to read compared with plot-driven stories. For me, yes, I get sucked into those, but I just want to read fast to find out what happens. Character-driven stories are ones I savor the most, and what I hope to accomplish with my own writing. Good luck with A-Z!
Reblogged this on Linda Covella, Author and commented:
A great post for both readers and writers. What’s most important to you: character, plot, or setting?
Reblogged :-)
Thanks so much, Linda. I think you summarized it very well: “Character-driven stories are ones I savor the most.” Thanks for commenting, re-blogging, and your support.
Ohhh, I take my hat off to you as you prepare for April’s A to Z. It is interesting to me as I attempt to decide what really draws me into a book. I do enjoy a good character, but the action in the plot with the mystery can really hook me into a good book too. You are quite insightful so I look forward to your April posts! Have fun!
Thank you, Gwynn. I do miss the blogging community, so, hey, I’ll give it a try. Hopefully I make it to end of April in one piece. :)
Excellent theme. I look forward to reading your posts. Also, good for you for participating in the A to Z challenge. I won’t be participating this year.
Thank you, Mary. I’ll miss you, for sure.
I completely agree, characters are the beating heart of any story.
I also belive it’s very difficult to address how characters work and develope so i’m looking forward to read your posts :-)
JazzFeathers Theme Reveal
Weimar Germany
https://theoldshelter.com/
Thank you. We’ll find out together. :)
This sounds like it will be a valuable guide. Look forward to reading it.
And I look forward to your visits. Thank you.
Very interesting. I am looking forward to another writing resource. It reminds me of my thoughts on Ladybird which was really a character movie more than a traditional movie. Great characters are needed to care about a good plot.
Thank you. Looking forward to a fun April and new discoveries.
Sounds super useful for any writer!
I hope so, I sure can use it. ;) Thank you so much for coming by.
I agree about character. When I read a story or even see a film if I don’t feel something for the characters and how they are developed, I don’t get as engrossed in the story as I would have liked. Looking forward to your posts. Visiting from
If I Only Had A Time Machine
Getting engrossed in the story is everything, imo. Thank you for visiting, Maryann, and your comment. See you soon.
Love your style and likewise with my blog posts. Marking your spot to visit :)
Many thanks. Same here. Look forward to many future visits.
What an interesting topic for the challenge! Looking forward to it!
did a search for your A-Z Silvia – and saw I missed this one. Great post. I look forward to receiving them! Yours not yet up this Sunday? Probably a little later, my time ..