Ask yourself Quote by Brandon Sanderson
““Brandon: How does the character fit into the story, how will people expect them to fit into the story, and how, therefore, can I make them incongruous for those expectations? I'm looking for incongruity. Ask yourself why this character cannot fill the role in the plot that they are expected to fulfill. Ask yourself who would be perfect for this role. I'm not going to use that person.””
About This Quote
Source Workshop: Character Design, Brandon Sanderson, 2019
Creating a character that defies expectations creates tension; ask who truly fits the role and why the chosen one doesn’t.
In simple terms: Break expectations for intrigue.
Key Takeaway
Subvert norms to engage readers.
Themes
writing
character
subversion
Mood
inventive
analytical
Type
creative
educational
When to use this quote
- novel planning
- screenplay
- role casting
Key Concepts
narrative theory
creativity
Questions to Reflect On
- What expectations can you flip?
- Who truly belongs in the story?
A Different Perspective
Risk of confusing audience.
