Character Quote by Hanya Yanagihara
“Many writers write across difference of one kind or another. Sometimes the difference is large and recognizable: gender, or race, or religion, or sexuality. And sometimes the differences are smaller. ... Where authors get into trouble is in trying to make those different characters stand in for whole groups of people, or for creating characters only to fetishize or explore their supposed otherness. Your character can be wildly different from you, as long as he's written with respect and, moreover, specificity.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Literary Craft, 2020
Writers should portray diverse characters with depth, avoiding stereotypes or using them as symbols for whole groups.
In simple terms: Write diverse characters respectfully and specifically.
Key Takeaway
Focus on nuanced, respectful representation.
Themes
diversity
representation
respect
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
literary
ethical
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- character workshops
- editorial reviews
Key Concepts
character development
stereotype avoidance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you ensure specificity without caricature?
- What steps help avoid fetishizing difference?
A Different Perspective
Risk of tokenism if not careful.
