This video identifies seven common reasons why readers might not connect with a book's characters and offers solutions for improving character development. The speaker uses examples from popular books and movies to illustrate these points.
Easy Path Characters: Readers dislike characters who achieve success without effort or struggle. Characters should face challenges and setbacks to be relatable. Luke Skywalker's journey is contrasted with Rey's comparatively easy path to power in The Force Awakens.
Author Projection Characters: While basing characters on oneself is acceptable, it's crucial to avoid making characters transparent reflections of the author's desires or opinions. The video cites examples of characters who become mere mouthpieces for the author's viewpoints or wish fulfillment fantasies.
Characters Missing Interior Life: Due to the influence of movies (which prioritize action over internal reflection), writers often neglect the inner lives of their characters. The video encourages writers to actively incorporate character thoughts and feelings to foster reader connection. The Fault in Our Stars is cited as an example of successful inner life portrayal.
Plot Device Characters: Characters should be more than plot devices. The speaker discusses three types: McGuffin characters (existing solely to be saved), exposition fairies (providing only information), and red shirts (killed off quickly for dramatic effect). The video highlights the importance of giving characters agency and personality.
Characters with Low Stakes: Readers need to feel the consequences of character failure. The video suggests establishing at least four levels of stakes (global, community, personal external, and internal/psychological) to raise the reader's investment. Frodo Baggins from Lord of the Rings is used to exemplify multi-layered stakes.
Telling Instead of Showing: The video emphasizes the importance of showing character traits through actions and narrative events rather than merely telling the reader what the character is like. Inconsistent character portrayal is highlighted as a problematic area that requires revision or explanation.
Unjustified Negative Traits: Negative traits should be motivated. While not every character needs a tragic backstory, providing some context or reason behind negative behaviors can increase reader sympathy and understanding. The speaker analyzes examples from Dexter, Forrest Gump, and Beloved. However, overjustification should be avoided. Exceptions exist, particularly in genres like horror, where pure malevolence can be effective.
