Be a sadist. No matter how sweet and innocent your leading…
![“Be a sadist. No matter how sweet and innocent your leading characters, make awful things happen to them -- in order that the reader may see what they are made of." [From the preface.]” quote by Kurt Vonnegut](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/5c1/kurt-vonnegut-41_adversity_be-a-sadist-no-matter-how-sweet-and-inno_2549345.jpg)
““Be a sadist. No matter how sweet and innocent your leading characters, make awful things happen to them -- in order that the reader may see what they are made of." [From the preface.]””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Encouraging writers to subject characters to harsh trials so readers can witness their true nature.
In simple terms: Put characters through hardship to reveal character.
Key Takeaway
Use conflict to develop depth.
Themes
writing
character
conflict
Mood
analytical
provocative
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- novels
- short stories
- screenplays
Key Concepts
literary technique
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How much suffering is needed to develop character?
- When does hardship become gratuitous?
A Different Perspective
Excessive cruelty may alienate readers.