A meta rec
I am often complimented on my character-driven fiction. On the other hand, hardly anyone mentions my plots… because I hardly ever have more than a whisper of one!
I have come to realise that I suck at writing bad guys. And even though I’ve realised it, I still haven’t gotten my mind wrapped around them. Why would anyone want to be so awful– when they have the chance to exist in one of MY stories?
*blink*
Well, anyway, has written is an excellent little essay that has given me some insights and encouragement.
Excellent article. I agree with it all the way down. It applies to writing in general, not just the fanfic. It ties in, too, with the ‘don’t rewrite for taste’ thing in the critique article you pinged on earlier. Thanks for the cross link and give Fandom a gold star!
Yes, isn’t it apropos? I ought to print both of them out. keep them in the car, or by the toilet– somewhere where I’m likely to pick up and re-read often.
Hey woman, did you see the call Storm Grant put up? I’m pondering my ‘Nogged’ piece. Do you think it fits the guidelines? Are you going to submit anything? Ever heard of Freya’s Bower?
Interesting! I’ve only read your Impverse stuff so the concept of Baddies doesn’t exactly fit anyway, but here’s an idea I stole as soon as I heard it because I find it explains the difference between well-written /well-acted bad people and the ones who just make me cringe (or maybe laugh). Shamefully, I can no longer remember who I stole it from, but here goes:
Baddies hardly ever think of themselves as baddies. However evil their actions (think of Hitler if you want an obvious and extreme example), they still see themselves as basically good people who, when circumstances require, resort to drastic measures. They don’t think they do what they do “because they are evil”. (Doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy it as well!)