Random Thoughts about Writing 1

Well if your reading this I just want to say thank you and bear with me. I figured I'll post random bits of my thinking on writing and perhaps any news that will be happening concerning me and my stories. I can't imagine why some people would read this but if you are, I hope you enjoy it!

Villains.

What is it about villains that separate them from heroes in most stories? What is one of the factors that makes a hero so much more likeable than a villain besides personality and dialogue? On this thought, I'm focusing more on what I think a good villain should have. Flaws and challenges. While every character has more depth if they have flaws, how many of them focus on the challenges and struggles the villains faces?

I mean, we grow to love the hero because we see the challenges they overcome. We see how their flaw's prevent them from doing something and then we see them overcome it. We see the hero deal with conflict that otherwise would have prevented them from continuing. But how often do we see the villain do the same? Most of the time they are already established in their position, they have already defeated their conflicts and surpassed their challenges except for the hero at the end. Rarely is it seen where the reader can watch the villain grow, and overcome obstacles that should have stopped them. I'm sure there are stories out there do have this concept, and I'm very glad they exist. But it is a concept I would like to see more often and will try to incorporate into my stories. I need to keep in mind, that the hero isn't the only character that needs to grow.

Comments

[MessoriaAQ]

We see how their flaw's prevent them from doing something and then we see them overcome it. We see the hero deal with conflict that otherwise would have prevented them from continuing.

That's actually also part of why most want the hero to succed and defeat the villain. The villain is simply less appealing if they're already identified as such. No one is simply born 'evil', and 'evil' is normally not something you can easily discern since the world isn't Black-and-White. There are grey zones. There is always Cause and Effect.

I've read stories where I wanted the villain to win simply because I could empathize with him or his reasoning. If you manage to get me to this point then I'll tip my imaginary hat thrice in your direction since that means you've done a splendid job creating a character.

Just a few rambled thoughts, mind you.

[Shanenator]

Typically the villain is morally, ethically, and generally twisted. But it's fun when they're more likeable then not. e.g. Discord