Most writing advice tells us to create an interesting character… and then make life difficult for them.


We're basically launching grenades at our characters, when we should be nocking arrows.


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If readers keep saying they "just couldn't connect" or "didn't feel satisfied," the problem may not be your dialogue, backstory, or character development. It may be that your plot isn't aiming at the one thing that creates real emotional investment.


This is the first episode in a series on building character-driven stories. Next week, we'll look at how to design a plot that puts pressure on one exact point in your protagonist and creates lasting emotional impact.


⏱️ TIME STAMPS

00:00 - Why readers don't connect

00:43 - The grenade problem

02:10 - Every story needs a bullseye

02:39 - The sacred flaw

03:56 - Identity keeps us stuck

05:16 - The flaw they're hiding

08:04 - The emotional core of every story

09:31 - Finding sacred flaws everywhere

10:25 - Part 2: Designing the plot


📖 RESOURCES MENTIONED

  • The Science of Storytelling by Will Storr


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