Rediscovering Your Writing Spark by Focusing on Character-Driven Plots

As a writer, there are moments when the words just don’t seem to come. I haven't uploaded a blog post or progressed book five in the Súperiae saga for the past month thanks to a mild case of writer's blog. I wish to share an effective way to deal with writer's block and reignite your passion for storytelling: focus on character-driven plots. Actions have reactions - and if you understand your characters and get them to respond to events naturally, then you should be able to defeat the curse of the writer's block.

This post will explore how understanding your characters’ motivations can help you overcome writer's block and keep your narrative moving forward. I'll share insights from my own work, particularly "The Circle of Twelve" (available to buy now) to illustrate how character actions can drive the plot even when inspiration feels scarce.

Understanding Writer's Block

Writer's block presents itself in various ways. It can manifest as complete silence or simply uncertainty about what to write next. Often, this block is made worse by self-doubt, fear of failure, or the pressure to produce something perfect. It is vital to remember that even the most successful writers experience this block. The trick is to discover strategies to overcome it. One effective method is to return to the essence of your story: your characters, and their why, their reason for existing!

The Importance of Character-Driven Plots

Character-driven plots concentrate on characters' actions and decisions, rather than

solely on external events. This approach allows the story to unfold naturally, guided by the characters' motivations and desires. When you know your characters well, you can predict how they will react in different situations, keeping your plot moving.

In "The Circle of Twelve," you meet Óríoní Zamar, a character who is usually calm and agreeable. However, upon watching her friends' inaction amidst authoritarian rule, her frustrations propel her to act. This transformation not only moves the plot ahead but also generates tension, which is a crucial component of any compelling narrative.

Developing Character Motivations

To create a character-driven plot, focus on what motivates your characters. Consider questions such as:

• What do they really want?

• What are their deepest fears and aspirations?

• How do their past experiences shape their actions?

  
  

By answering these questions, you develop multi-dimensional characters whose actions feel genuine. Try to put yourself in each character's shoes. What feels like a natural, organic response to the circumstances your character finds themselves in? If it doesn't feel realistic or natural, you're off track.

For example, Óríoní is motivated by her desire for justice and disappointment in her friends for being passive. This drives her to confront the oppressive force in her world, inspiring her friend Din Kópiada, who typically avoids conflict, to take action against the antagonist, Manix. This is because Din fear of losing Óríoní's respect outweighs his cowardice and forces him to grow a spine. This mutual influence significantly impacts their personal journeys and the overall plot.

Character arcs are vital for crafting satisfying narratives. A compelling character arc showcases how a character evolves over the story, often in response to the conflicts they face. In "The Circle of Twelve," Óríoní and Din's journeys from passive participants to active rebels exemplifies an impactful character arc. Their growth not only enriches their characters but also drives the plot forward, encouraging others to join the cause against oppression.

Reflections on Overcoming Writer’s Block

In conclusion, writer's block is a formidable obstacle, but it doesn't have to prevent you from advancing in your creative journey. Focusing on character-driven plots can help you rediscover the power of storytelling and keep your narrative flowing. The next time you're faced with a blank page, revisit your characters. Dig into their motivations, explore their decisions, and let them guide you through the creative process. Remember, perfect is the enemy of good. Just get stuff onto the page and let the words start to flow. You can always come back and edit your work later.

Remember, every writer encounters challenges, but it’s your response to those challenges that will shape your journey. Keep writing, keep exploring, and let your characters lead the way.