The Questions

During this insightful webcast, I posed a question: "What do you believe makes a character compelling?" Their responses prompted me to reevaluate my own writing approach. The consensus was clear: authenticity and emotional investment in the narrative and its characters are crucial. It’s not enough to aim for an emotional scene; it must stem from a genuine and heartfelt place. If you’re unable to evoke the emotions you wish to convey, it’s best to step away until you can reconnect.

You must immerse yourself in the narrative you are creating. This is why I lean towards character-driven stories instead of those focused solely on events. While grand narratives, like Avengers: Endgame, may be celebrated, it’s the character moments that resonate with audiences. For instance, the scene where Iron Man reverses the snap is memorable not just for its spectacle but because of the emotional journey viewers have taken with Tony Stark over a decade. His death and the poignant interaction between Tony's daughter Morgan and Happy Hogan about cheeseburgers hit hard due to the emotional ties we've developed with these characters.

After watching the webcast, I reflected on my current projects and reconsidered my creative choices. It reinforced my desire to focus on character-driven narratives, whether it’s the journey of Lisa Goodwin or Jacqueline "Jack" Newsted. I aim to be deeply invested in their lives and the challenges they face, as compelling stories are about characters experiencing significant events.

For example, Lisa Goodwin grapples with loss as she seeks vengeance against the vampire who murdered her sister. Her struggle with grief and guilt is the heart of her story, with external conflicts serving to raise stakes. The elements present in a narrative must contribute meaningfully; if a story can be told without a specific element, it may be time to reassess its relevance.

Every facet of your story shapes the world your characters inhabit. I’ve contemplated the setting for my Lisa Goodwin P.I. story, realizing it exists in a contemporary, albeit distinct, universe. This urban fantasy backdrop is pivotal, and I must consider whether the narrative would hold without it. If the answer is affirmative, it’s essential to delve into why that element matters.

Investing time into your characters and stories is vital. If you lack emotional connection, your writing may falter. Having watched numerous films and shows, it’s clear when a writer isn't connected to their material; such narratives can feel lifeless.

Ultimately, ask yourself: Do you genuinely feel this story, or is it merely a concept without depth? If the answer is yes, then it’s time to start writing.