i love
to read what authors and artists have to say about their craft. One of my favorite sources is Writers Ask, a pamphlet of interview excerpts where well-known writers ask each other craft and process questions. (I’m a huge fan of Glimmer Train. Check them out. Discover the short story.) It’s like getting to eavesdrop on the juciest part of a conversation you’d really like to join (without the social stigma of being reduced to wallflower). This morning I found this (an excerpt of the excerpt):
How do you keep characters sympathetic, that is, not too “good” or too flawed, but a realistic combination of both?
I’m working with a man now who is probably too good. I don’t know when I will see a side of him that makes him a little more human — maybe something he fears. I always wonder what a character’s secret it. I’m curious about people’s secrets. Even sitting by someone on the plane I’ll ask what their secret is, and often, to my horror, I am told. I don’t ask that question as often as I used to.
— Elizabeth Cox,
interviewed by Sarah Anne Johnson
Today’s agenda for the manuscript includes an attitude adjustment on our hero, who is glaringly good. Fun, eh?
Leave a Comment