Books Quote by Ottessa Moshfegh
“Building a relationship with the character. It's just like sitting with someone you know. It's very easy to predict when they're going to shake their head or say whatever, but because I'm the author I have to make characters do what I want them to do.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: My Year of Rest and Relaxation, 2018
Authors must balance character autonomy with narrative control, treating fictional beings as companions while guiding their actions.
In simple terms: Writers manage characters like friends, shaping but while respecting their personalities.
Key Takeaway
Treat characters as collaborators, not puppets.
Themes
creativity
control
character development
authorship
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
inquisitive
Type
instructional
philosophical
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- character sketching
- creative workshops
Key Concepts
literature
psychology
storytelling
Questions to Reflect On
- How can writers stay true to a character’s voice?
- When does authorial control become intrusive?
A Different Perspective
Over‑controlling characters can stifle originality.
![“What's inspiring me the most [is] injustice. My own growth as a member of the human race, in terms of the veils being lifted, seeing more of the beauty and also the horror. A sense of my own purpose in this life. Love...” quote by Ottessa Moshfegh](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/58d/ottessa-moshfegh-8200_growth_what-s-inspiring-me-the-most-is-injustic_380747.jpg)
