Prompt #34

This week, I had a lot of character work to do for a project I’m working on. I’m working with true “villains” in a way I don’t usually, which has been fun. Today’s exercise is focused on justifying character action. Why do seemingly good people do bad things? We should not judge our characters or put them on moral pedestals, saying, “Well, they would never_____,” but really examine how they could descend into darkness (when we need them to)!

Pick a character from a project you’re working on, ideally the hero of your story. If you’re not working on anything specific at the moment, you can work with a character from a past project or from a movie, show, or novel you enjoy. Let’s say I choose Lizzie Bennet from Pride and Prejudice.

Describe this character in a sentence or two, specifically what their values are and what they’re most passionate about. What would they fight for?

Then, identify what kind of behavior they detest and could never see themselves doing. For example, murder, or running away with a man you barely know and making a fool out of yourself and your family (*cough cough, Lydia*)

Now, rethink your character and figure out what would cause them to stoop to that level. Why would Lizzie abandon the family she loves so dearly to run off with someone? Or, if you say your character would never hurt a fly and you need them to commit murder, what circumstances need to exist for that character to consider doing that? What would make them desperate enough?

This is a brainstorming activity. Afterward, you can choose to write a scene based on it if you like. Set a timer for 10 minutes, and brainstorm! Make your characters deplorable!!

Share this post to write with a friend!

I’m watching Company, at the Pantages, and Olympic Breaking, which sometimes feels like the finale scene of Save the Last Dance.

I’m reading this piece by on Showing vs Telling and Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez for book club.

I’m listening to On Story’s Conversation with Karyn Kusama and some vintage Lady Gaga (The Fame) for nostalgia.

How did the prompt go? Let me know in the comments, or email me back! See ya next week :)