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I often work for years on a story, inventing, outlining, mapping, constructing, before I feel that I'm ready to write it down
ORSON SCOTT CARD
21
223 reads
Characters Drive Thrillers
- In thriller fiction, characters must be believable yet extraordinary to engage readers.
- The stakes should be high, with well-defined motives that create tension and drive the plot forward.
24
168 reads
Raising the Emotional Stakes
- Thrillers thrive on heightened emotions—jeopardy, sacrifice, and fear.
- Building suspense requires placing characters in situations where they risk significant loss or danger.
25
159 reads
Point of View for Maximum Impact
- Choosing the right viewpoint (first-person or third-person limited) can enhance the immediacy of a thriller.
- Card emphasizes consistency in perspective to maintain reader immersion and build tension.
24
142 reads
Character Flaws Create Suspense
- Flawed characters increase tension as their personal struggles complicate the external conflict.
- Readers are drawn to protagonists who must overcome both internal and external obstacles.
26
124 reads
Action vs. Reflection Balance
- While action drives a thriller, moments of reflection deepen character development and suspense.
- Card suggests alternating fast-paced scenes with introspection to maintain reader engagement.
26
109 reads
Unpredictability Keeps Readers Hooked
- Twists and turns are essential in thriller fiction to keep readers guessing.
- Card advises against clichéd resolutions, encouraging writers to surprise readers without losing plausibility
25
108 reads
IDEAS CURATED BY
CURATOR'S NOTE
Orson Scott Card’s Characters & Viewpoint offers essential guidance for crafting compelling characters and selecting effective narrative perspectives. Emphasizing character depth, emotional stakes, and viewpoint consistency, the book is crucial for thriller writers aiming to create immersive, high-tension stories. Its practical advice helps writers balance action with introspection for maximum reader engagement
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