Sagging Middles: Deepen Character Motivations by Introducing External Pressures
Writing Craft, Storytelling Techniques, Fiction Development Clay Stafford Writing Craft, Storytelling Techniques, Fiction Development Clay Stafford

Sagging Middles: Deepen Character Motivations by Introducing External Pressures

Deepening your characters’ motivations in the middle section of a story is vital to increasing the narrative's momentum. The middle should further complicate the plot and create a more layered, intertwined experience. One way to achieve this is by introducing external pressure—whether from antagonists, societal expectations, or unexpected complications—to force characters to confront their fears, desires, and flaws.

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Great Beginnings—The Core Attributes of a Strong Protagonist: Clear Goals and Complex Motivations
Writing Craft, Fiction Techniques, Character Building, Story Development Clay Stafford Writing Craft, Fiction Techniques, Character Building, Story Development Clay Stafford

Great Beginnings—The Core Attributes of a Strong Protagonist: Clear Goals and Complex Motivations

A strong protagonist hooks readers from the first page. By giving them clear, significant goals and complex, relatable motivations, we create characters that resonate deeply. A protagonist’s journey should be layered with internal and external conflicts, emotional stakes, and evolving ambitions that drive the story forward.

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Plotters or Pantsers: You Are a Multitude
Writing Advice, Creativity & Inspiration, Fiction Techniques, Professional Writing, Author Insights, Writing Process, Story Development, Outlining & Structure, Discovery Writing, Writing Mindset, Narrative Craft, Writers’ Habits, Literary Exploration, Writing Philosophy, Writing Motivation Clay Stafford Writing Advice, Creativity & Inspiration, Fiction Techniques, Professional Writing, Author Insights, Writing Process, Story Development, Outlining & Structure, Discovery Writing, Writing Mindset, Narrative Craft, Writers’ Habits, Literary Exploration, Writing Philosophy, Writing Motivation Clay Stafford

Plotters or Pantsers: You Are a Multitude

Plotter or pantser? The truth is, we are all both. Each project demands a different approach, and the best way forward is to embrace the journey of discovery. Creativity is unpredictable, and defining yourself as one or the other limits the possibilities of your writing. Instead of focusing on labels, focus on the story—because in the end, that’s what truly matters.

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