 For Authors: May 23, 2018 Issue [#8910] |
  For Authors
This week: Character or Plot Driven Writing Edited by: Vivian  
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Experts have discussed for years the difference between character-driven and plot-driven writing. Character-driven supposedly means "literary" writing while genre or mass selling writing is plot-driven. But, which is better?
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Character or Plot Driven
In writing circles, the battle rages on: Is a story character-driven, or is it plot-driven? One side states that character-driven writing focuses on the internal change of the character or characters rather than the events that take place. They state plot-driven stories focus on the happenings and external changes. However, how clear-cut are the two types of writings?
According to the article “Character-driven vs Plot-driven Writing” by Dorrance Publishing,
Plots that are character driven are commonly referred to as “literary fiction”
due to the fact that they feature characters that possess multiple layers that are
exposed as the story develops.
Note the author of this article says “plots that are character driven,” and plot means actions, happenings.
The article sited above does state both character and plot are necessary for a good story, as does editor and writing coach Jeni Cappelle, “Every well-written novel must have a combination of engaging characters and a compelling plot.”
Best-selling author and writing expert William Bernhardt takes the battle farther when he states the belief of character-driven and plot-driven being separate entities is a myth. He writes, “All fiction is character-driven.” [Creating Character, p 6] No matter what exciting happenings the writing may contain, it falls flat if the writer uses a flat, boring, or unbelievable character or characters. All good writings require “strong, dynamic, unique characters.” [p 11] As stated on the back cover of Bernhardt’s book, Aristotle wrote, “Action is character.”
Everyone agrees that one must have both engaging characters and an attention-holding plot Bernhardt writes that combining imagination, insight, and first-rate writing skills creates the best characters. Great writers use the same qualities to develop compelling characters and electrifying plots. Both characters and plot combined ttake readers into a different world that exhilarates them and removes them from their own existences for a while and leaves them wanting more.
Sources, other than author’s own knowledge and expertise:
1. William Bernhardt, Creating Character: Bringing Your Story to Life.
2. Jeni Chappelle, editor and writing coach, “Plot-driven or Character-driven: Does it Really Matter?” jenichappelle.com
3. Dorrance Publishing http://www.dorrancepublishing.com/character-driven-v-plot-driven-writing-whats-d...
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Words from Our Readers
ClarityofClouds 
Another way to stimulate creativity is to take a page and write whatever comes into your mind, whether it makes sense or not. It does not need to follow the usual rules of punctuation and grammar because those distract us from getting the words out. I find that sometimes you need to give yourself permission to write pure nonsense in order to get into the creative flow.
Sand Castles Shopgirl 739 
Whenever I run into the brick wall of writer's block, a long walk with the dog sometimes helps. I also have a closet filled with all sorts of yarns and wool and hooks and needles of all shapes and sizes. The rhythm of knitting and crocheting is very relaxing and, with all puns intended, I have worked out more than a few knotted sentences and scenes that way. The one thing that has always helped, but is the most frustrating of all, is the idea or solution that awakens me at 3:00 in the morning. Ususally it is the answer I need, but makes for a very long and caffeine filled day!
Thank you, ClarityofClouds and Sand Castles Shopgirl 739 for your solutions.
dogpack saving 4premium 
Writers block for me roses not exist, I demand that it stay as far away from me...well..the reaches of outer space for example. There are times when I need to take a break just because. Times when I have to think are short and I usually don't need to leave my writing place. The challenge for me is finding the word I know is in my head but has been misfiled, yet with a little effort I manage to keep going. Usually what stops me is actually having to deal with physical issues especially being tired or having pain spikes. This interrupts the flow, so I try quickly to end my writing session in a way which would capture the details and direction I'm going. when I return to writing at least I have an idea about what to do next. I've written for NaNo several times and found to my surprise that I can churn out word regularly. Editing isn't something that plagues me, so no editing unless it's a very, very quick fix for naNo. This must have trained my mind to keep ideas flowing and to produce stomaching regardless of how it turns out, then the editing starts.
Congratulations. Some people have less problems with any block than others.
Thank you for joining me again this issue. May your writing prosper.
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