I WRITE TO GIVE MYSELF STRENGTH.
I WRITE TO BE THE CHARACTERS THAT I AM NOT.
I WRITE TO EXPLORE ALL THE THINGS I'M AFRAID OF.
(Joss Whedon)
More than one reader has told me they love the voice of the antagonist in my work-in-progress. She's nasty and evil with a detached air that is chilling.
More than one reader thinks my protagonist needs more oomph, more guts.
I find this telling (and, honestly, a little scary.)
The darkness surges up and out and spills onto the page so easily while hope and courage limp through my lines like a dehydrated, exhausted marathoner. But I know if I dig deep, my protagonist will too, and she will fight her way into being. It's similar to the way my own positivity and gratitude fight their way through the murk and muck of my mind.
So, this week, let's write - draw, dance, cook, whatever it is you are called to do - to become, to explore, to realize, to challenge, to grow. Be more you than you thought possible.
At least you know what needs to be done!
ReplyDeleteAlex - yeah, but the trick is actually doing it or figuring out how to do it. :)
ReplyDeleteThat's fascinating. I also had more fun writing the bad guy in my last wip, and he turned out to be more interesting than my protagonist. I wonder what makes us do that.
ReplyDeletePatricia - I enjoy writing my antagonist more, too. I like my protagonist and all, it's just she needs some more oomph while the antagonist already has it. :)
ReplyDeletemaking our heroes able to defeat the villain sometimes means they need a little dark, to think ahead of them or find their weakness...and its hard to find that perfect combination sometimes...
ReplyDeletegreat quote too!
Tara - good thoughts re the hero having to think like the villain. Very true!
ReplyDeleteGotta love Joss Whedon. He's one of my favorite writers!
ReplyDeleteEmily - he's got some great quotes. :)
ReplyDeleteYes, I've been having similar thoughts myself, as you know. Sounds like your protag needs to win through despite the odds against them...
ReplyDeleteSimon - it's strange because I like my protagonist...but I "like" my antagonist more. (I have no idea what that says about me and I don't think I want to know!)
ReplyDeleteGetting my Monday motivation a little late this week, but it's very welcome just the same. I'm a huge Joss Whedon fan so I loved this quote.
ReplyDeleteI have no doubt you'll work out whatever you need to for your protagonist.
Julie - no worries, we're here all week. And in the archives. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the vote of confidence.