I would say plotting is the most difficult thing for me…
“I would say plotting is the most difficult thing for me. Characterization is only hard because sometimes I feel I get so interested in it that I want to talk too much about the characters and that slows the story down. So I say, "Hey, people want to find out what's going to happen next, they don't want to listen to you spout off about this or that person." But I think even the bad guy deserves to tell his side of the story.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Balancing plot and character depth is hard; plot drives engagement, but character insight enriches story, even for antagonists.
In simple terms: Plot keeps readers hooked; character adds depth.
Key Takeaway
Balance plot momentum with character insight.
Themes
writing
storytelling
character development
Mood
creative
analytical
Type
instructional
reflective
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- screenwriting
- editing
- character arcs
Key Concepts
narrative pacing
empathy
conflict
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you reveal a villain’s motives without slowing the story?
- What techniques keep plot moving while deepening characters?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on character can stall plot.