Writing Excuses
19.32: An Interview on Character with CL Clark
Aug 11, 2024
CL Clark, a talented writer recognized for their insight on crafting vivid characters, shares their expertise on building distinct POV characters in short stories. They discuss the importance of plot processing and defining stakes in storytelling. Clark highlights techniques to create depth through character flaws and motivations, and elaborates on the impact of perspective in enriching narratives. Additionally, they present engaging writing exercises focused on power dynamics to refine storytelling skills.
33:08
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Quick takeaways
- Creating distinct characters in short stories requires a focus on their desires and stakes to enrich the narrative.
- Utilizing different points of view can manipulate emotional distance and heighten tension, enhancing the reader's engagement with characters.
Deep dives
Character Development in Short Stories
Creating well-defined characters is essential in short stories, particularly due to their limited word count. Writers should focus on the character’s desires and the stakes involved, as this specificity enriches the narrative and makes characters distinct from one another. For example, C.L. Clark’s approach involves triaging characters at the story's outset, determining who to focus on based on their motivations and conflicts. This method not only clarifies the primary character’s journey but also enhances the overall depth of the story.
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