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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Protagonists Don’t Have to Be Likeable; They Have to Be Unforgettable
Writing Techniques, Character Development, Fiction Writing Tips, Storytelling Strategies, Crafting Strong Protagonists, Narrative Design, Screenwriting Essentials, Creative Writing Advice, Literary Theory Clay Stafford Writing Techniques, Character Development, Fiction Writing Tips, Storytelling Strategies, Crafting Strong Protagonists, Narrative Design, Screenwriting Essentials, Creative Writing Advice, Literary Theory Clay Stafford

Protagonists Don’t Have to Be Likeable; They Have to Be Unforgettable

A protagonist doesn’t need to be likable—just unforgettable. Whether heroic or villainous, they must captivate from their first entrance. Readers should feel an irresistible pull, whether through admiration, disgust, or fascination. The key is to create a character no one can ignore.

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