Character is the very life of fiction. Setting exists so that the character has someplace to stand, something that can help define him, something he can pick up and throw, if necessary, or eat, or give to his girlfriend. Plot exists so the character can discover for himself (and in the process reveal to the reader) what he, the character, is really like: plot forces the character to choice and action, transforms him from a static construct to a lifelike human being making choices and paying for them or reaping the rewards. And theme exists only to make the character stand up and be somebody: theme is elevated critical language for what the character's main problem is.  -John Gardner

Key Terms: Character, Setting, Plot, Theme

Considering Two Approaches to Writing Fiction

For the writer, plot-driven fiction begins with outlining the plot, and character-driven fiction starts with developing a character. We are focused on the latter, and the following three questions are a good place to start.

Where do writers “find” characters?

What makes a good character for a work of fiction?

What does the writer need to know about his or her character?

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Homework: Create a two to three page character sketch devoid of setting, plot and dialog. Bring five copies to class on Thursday.

Suggested Reading for Nex Week: “The Darling” by Anton Chekhov; “What We Talk About When We Talk About Love” and “Cathedral” by Raymond Carver; “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman; “A Hunger Artist” by Franz Kafka; “A Clean, Well-Lighted Place” and “Hills Like White Elephants” by Ernest Hemingway; “A Rose for Emily” by William Faulkner; “Janus” by Ann Beattie; “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin

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