"Never argue with your characters; they know themselves better than you do"
About this Quote
Laurell K. Hamilton's quote, "Never argue with your characters; they understand themselves better than you do", acts as an informative reflection on the creative procedure of character advancement in composing. At its core, it suggests that authors must approach their characters as self-governing entities with their own distinct identities and experiences, instead of simple constructs of the author's imagination.
To dive deeper into this idea, one can translate Hamilton's advice as promoting for an organic method to storytelling. Characters, when developed, begin to take shape in the mind of the author with depth and intricacy that can go beyond initial details or objectives. They develop as the narrative unfolds, as if possessing an inner life or consciousness that guides their actions, choices, and growth within the story. The author, for that reason, becomes more of an observer who transcribes the journey that the characters naturally embark upon.
Hamilton's quote may also underscore the importance of credibility and fact in character representation. When writers enforce rigorous control over their characters, controling them to fit preconceived plots or styles, they risk creating characters that feel inauthentic or contrived. By permitting characters to "understand themselves", authors can craft more believable and relatable people whose options and developments resonate with readers. There's an invitation to trust the instincts that develop when a character starts to "speak" or act in manner ins which might initially surprise the writer but ultimately serve the story better.
Additionally, this viewpoint promotes a deeper connection in between writer and character. It encourages the writer to listen and be receptive, engaging with characters in a dialogic way instead of dictating their every relocation. This discussion inevitably enriches the story, lending depth and unpredictability to the story, pivotal elements in engaging storytelling.
In summary, Hamilton's advice is a suggestion to writers to embrace the dynamic nature of characters. By appreciating their autonomy and uniqueness, writers can permit their stories to unfold with credibility and vigor, crafting narratives that are as compelling as their characters are genuine.