Write On SC

Catalysts and Decision Makers

Episode Summary

Characters Need Agency

Episode Notes

The last time we did this topic was way back in 2021 here’s the link to Episode 130. We think maybe we’ve learned something since then. Born out of the “be mean to your characters” necessity, “what could be meaner than making your characters make decisions, do something, take responsibility, and live with consequences of their actions?”

According to this link by Meg LaTorre at Savvy Authors, “agency” means the character is more proactive than reactive in the story. The character does stuff instead of stuff just happening to him/her.
To give characters agency, ensure they drive the plot through active choices and pursuit of clear, motivated goals, rather than passively reacting to events. This involves providing meaningful choices, showing consequences for their actions, creating internal and external conflicts that require decisive action, and allowing for character growth based on their decisions. (thanks, AI and this link)

How do you do it? Check out this link (summary below):

Active, Not Passive: Your protagonist should be the driver of the plot, making decisions that shape the story, not just having things happen to them.
Clear Goals: Give characters specific, achievable goals rooted in their desires and motivations.
Strong Motivations: Explain why a character takes action, linking their choices to their values, beliefs, and internal struggles.
Meaningful Choices: Present dilemmas where characters must make difficult decisions that reflect their personality.
Consequences: Show the tangible positive and negative outcomes of their decisions, reinforcing their impact on the story.
Conflict as a Catalyst: Use obstacles and conflicts to force characters to act and make choices.
Show, Don't Tell: Reveal agency through actions and dialogue, not just narration of thoughts or feelings.
Character Arc: Allow characters to change and develop as a result of their experiences and choices.
Avoid Deus Ex Machina: Don't resolve conflicts randomly or through external forces beyond the character's control.