Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing The psychology of writing bestsellers, with Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Nov 7, 2024
Join bestselling author Jennifer Lynn Barnes, known for her popular "Inheritance Games" series and former psychology professor, as she dives into the intriguing link between psychology and storytelling. She reveals how readers form deep emotional bonds with characters through parasocial relationships. The conversation unfolds around the art of crafting dynamic characters and satisfying plots while exploring the themes of competition and family dynamics. Tune in for insights on balancing creativity with real-life challenges in a writer's world.
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Why We Connect With Fiction
- We connect with fictional characters because our brains don't always distinguish reality from fantasy.
- This 'alief' makes fictional relationships feel real, causing genuine emotional responses.
Barnes' Path to Fiction Psychology
- Jennifer Lynn Barnes combined her psychology background with her passion for writing.
- She transitioned from primate cognition research to studying the psychology of fiction.
Analyzing Popular Fiction
- Barnes uses her psychology background to analyze popular fiction and understand its success.
- She developed a workbook incorporating various psychological theories to guide her writing.