Essential Guide to Writing a Novel cover image

Essential Guide to Writing a Novel

Episode 99 - Traps when writing character-driven stories.

Feb 9, 2024
Traps to avoid when writing character-driven stories. Kurt Vonnegut's technique of making a character want something right away. How Joyce Carol Oates works. The enduring appeal of Anne of Green Gables.
24:08

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Character-driven stories should balance action and tension with character exploration.
  • Establishing the protagonist's immediate desires can drive the plot and engage readers in a character-driven story.

Deep dives

Character-driven vs. plot-driven stories

Character-driven stories prioritize character development and internal growth over plot. They engage readers in the personal journey of the protagonists and emphasize their inner thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Examples of character-driven books include 'The Bell Jar', 'Little Fires Everywhere', and 'The Goldfinch'.

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