Understanding the Role of Desire in Fiction Writing
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Chapter 1: The Misconception of Desire
In the realm of storytelling, many writers tend to overemphasize a protagonist's "Want," which is often viewed as the driving force behind their actions. However, this perspective can be misleading.
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Section 1.1: The Misleading Nature of Want
Consider the character of Chief Brody from "Jaws." He doesn't possess a grand desire that propels him into the ocean to confront a massive shark. In fact, he harbors a deep fear of the sea. His actions are driven more by duty than desire. Similarly, Luke Skywalker may begin his journey with dreams of adventure, yet once he departs from Tatooine, his motivations shift towards fulfilling his responsibilities. He chooses to confront the Empire because he is uniquely positioned to do so and because it aligns with his moral compass. Both characters, in retrospect, embody heroism, but they are primarily driven by their obligations rather than lofty aspirations.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Role of Duty Over Desire
Writing often romanticizes the concept of "Want," leading new writers astray. It may be more beneficial to recognize that not every protagonist needs to be defined by their longings. This misconception could lead to a proliferation of overly dramatic characters in literature and film.
Section 1.2: The Equation of Plot
In previous discussions, I introduced a straightforward equation for understanding plot: Character + Problem = Plot. It is essential to clarify what I mean by "Problem." This term refers to the point at which a protagonist's need to fulfill their responsibilities intersects with an obstacle. This obstacle could arise from an antagonist, nature's unpredictability, or sheer misfortune. Often, an external force catalyzes the protagonist's need to act. For instance, had the Great White shark not been terrorizing Brody's town, he would have remained on dry land, lacking any impetus to venture out to sea. In this scenario, the shark serves as both the antagonist and the driving force behind the protagonist's actions.
Chapter 2: The Blue Collar Approach to Motivation
In the video "Writing Strong Characters - The Important Distinction Between Want and Need," we explore how understanding the difference between these two concepts can enhance character development. The video highlights that a character's motivations often stem from their responsibilities rather than mere desires.
The second video, "The ONLY Way to Plot a Novel (It's Easier Than You Think!)," delves into effective plotting techniques that prioritize the protagonist's duties and the challenges they face, making the writing process more accessible.
In conclusion, it’s vital to remember that a character's "Want" may not be as crucial to fiction writing as is often believed. Focusing on duty and obligation can lead to more grounded and relatable narratives.