Character Quote by Vivian Vande Velde
“Number one rule for fiction: Coincidence can be used to worsen a characters predicament, but never to solve his problems.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Wizard of Karres, 1995
Coincidence should complicate a character’s plight, never resolve it, preserving narrative tension and agency.
In simple terms: Use coincidences to worsen, not solve, problems.
Key Takeaway
Avoid easy fixes; let characters struggle.
Themes
plot
conflict
character agency
Mood
analytical
instructional
Type
literary
craft guidance
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- novel drafting
- screenplay development
Key Concepts
narrative structure
cause and effect
storytelling techniques
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you create tension without relying on chance?
- What alternatives exist to resolve plot issues?
A Different Perspective
Overreliance on coincidences can feel contrived.
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![“After a little bit, [the wolf] heard a human voice call out from inside the house, "Little Red Riding Hood, is that you? Have you come to visit your Granny?" But since the wolf didn't speak human, he guessed what the person had said was: "Did I hear something? Is there someone out there who needs…” quote by Vivian Vande Velde](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e02/vivian-vande-velde-29966_fairytale_after-a-little-bit-the-wolf-heard-a-huma_2064569.jpg)
