Character Quote by Barbara Mertz
“Sometimes the characters develop almost without your knowing it. You find them doing things you hadn't planned on, and then I have to go back to page 42 and fix things. I'm not recommending it as a way to write. It's very sloppy, but it works for me.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Writing workshop, 2015
Characters can evolve unexpectedly, forcing the author to retroactively adjust the narrative; chaotic but effective for some writers.
In simple terms: Characters sometimes develop on their own, requiring later fixes.
Key Takeaway
Embrace flexibility but plan to revise as needed.
Themes
creativity
writing process
character development
adaptability
revision
Mood
reflective
practical
creative
Type
writing
creative process
fiction
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- screenwriting
- game narrative design
- editing sessions
Key Concepts
narrative theory
authorial control
storytelling techniques
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance spontaneity with plot coherence?
- When is retroactive fixing acceptable?
A Different Perspective
Unplanned changes can cause inconsistencies if not managed.
