Debra Dixon advised in her book Goal, Motivation and Conflict (my bible) that novice writers should stick with one goal, one motivation and one conflict. This is my third novel, but I still consider myself a novice writer since I haven't been published, ok, maybe intermediate. So when I tell Taigen to keep it simple, he just laughs at me. No. Right now, he wants THREE external goals, motivations and conflicts and TWO internal goals, motivations and conflicts. I didn't think he was so complicated when I wrote this book a year ago. Now, I'm stressed that I won't be able to comminicate all of his GMC because there's so much of it.
And believe me, I've tried to change his mind.
Do you have a character like this? Do you usually stick to Debra Dixon's advice or is this when I should subside into thinking I'm growing as a writer and just take it on?
Oh dear! Twin brother of Adelaide? Good heavens! the KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) approach to writing works great at the beginning, and builds your confidence, but when the characters start talking to you, telling you how they want their story written, it's generally best for your mental health (and the story) to tell it like they want it told. You have enough experience by now to be able to tackle this. And if it turns out to be too much, your critique partners will let you know. Go for it! :)
ReplyDeleteI absolutely relate to this post, as my MC has developed several small goals and conflicts along the journey. Listen to your character and let him take you where he wants to go. It may be for the best.
ReplyDeleteThis is very motivational, guys! Thank you so much.
ReplyDeleteSometimes characters refuse to be told otherwise ;) I've had a similar problem in the past.
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