Writing Excuses

20.05: Lens 1 - Who

Feb 2, 2025

Discover the 'lens of who' as the hosts dive into the complexity of character development. They break down concepts like relatability and depth, urging writers to acknowledge how varied experiences shape different voices. Engaging personal stories are highlighted as crucial for creating believable characters. A unique homework assignment invites listeners to interview friends about pivotal life moments, enriching their storytelling skills. Plus, exciting upcoming retreats and creative collaborations are announced!

25:10

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Quick takeaways

The 'lens of who' emphasizes that characters should be depicted as multi-dimensional beings shaped by their unique experiences and backgrounds.

Writers are encouraged to explore their characters' beliefs and fears to create relatable narratives that resonate with broader human truths.

Deep dives

Overview of Upcoming Retreats

Registrations are now open for the 2025 retreats, including a Regenerate Retreat in Minnesota from June 15th to 21st. This event will focus on skill development, idea generation, and writing, offering ample opportunities for networking and restoration. Another exciting option is a cruise sailing from Los Angeles to the Mexican Riviera from September 18th to 26th, aimed at writers looking to refine their craft. Ticket prices vary, starting at $1,500 for the retreat and as low as $23.50 for family members on the cruise, making it accessible for participants.

Intro

2min

The Lens of Who

4min

Exploring Character Perspectives

6min

Setting Financial Intentions for Creative Success

3min

Crafting Complex Characters

11min

The Evolution of Character Perspectives in Storytelling

3min

Today we are introducing the “lens of who” – which means talking about characters. We try to break big character ideas down into their elements. For instance, what do terms like "relatability" or "depth" of character really mean?

One of the main take-aways from this episode is that your characters each have different sets of experiences, which *should* mean they could each describe the same exact thing differently. And you should know how to write this.

Homework: Interview two friends and yourself, asking them the questions below. Write down their answers (and yours) as completely as possible.

1) The most pain they've had

2) The happiest memory they think of first

3) A description of a person and circumstance that positively and dramatically influenced them *before the age of 18*. Family member, teacher, boss at 1st job, etc.

P.S. Want to come write with us in 2025?! Our retreat registration is open, and we are starting to fill up! We are going to unlock our creative processes in Minnesota and explore Story Refinement as we cruise down the Mexican Riviera! Learn more here.

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Credits: Your hosts for this episode were Mary Robinette Kowal, Dan Wells, Erin Roberts, and Howard Tayler. It was produced by Emma Reynolds, recorded by Marshall Carr, Jr., and mastered by Alex Jackson.

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