Books Quote by Anonymous
““Audiences often ask if characters are based on real people. Indeed the impulse of the amateur is to write about who one knows. The professional on the other hand understands the impossibility of such a task. The creator of the character must know more about the character than anyone could ever possibly know about a real person. The author must possess the complete knowledge; what the person was wearing on Christmas morning when he or she was five, what presents he or she received, and who gave them and how they were given. A "character" therefore is a real person who exists in another plane, a parallel universe based on the author's perceptions of reality. When it comes to people don't write about who you know but what you know of human nature.””
About This Quote
The quote argues that true character creation requires deep, imaginative insight beyond personal acquaintance, demanding an author’s comprehensive understanding of human nature.
In simple terms: Creating characters needs insight beyond personal experience.
Key Takeaway
Know human nature, not just people you know.
Themes
creativity
character development
imagination
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- role‑playing games
- teaching creative writing
Key Concepts
psychology
empathy
fiction writing
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance personal observation with imaginative insight?
- What aspects of human nature are universal?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook the value of real‑world experience in grounding characters.
