I start with characters, and then I start writing, and…
“I start with characters, and then I start writing, and then, if I'm lucky, things start to happen.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The writer builds stories by starting with characters, then letting events unfold.
In simple terms: Start with characters, then write.
Develop characters before plot.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How to balance character and plot?
- When to intervene?
Characters may not drive plot alone.