Creative Captures

Lynn Chapman Writer

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    Notes From The Desk

    Characters verses Plot: What inspires you first?

    I think the character verses plot debate is a great one. I’m sure every writer will have a different view on this. There’s no right or wrong answer. Personally, when writing long fiction pieces, I always think of the plot in my head first, never the characters. I imagine a given scenario and make copious notes before I even start to think about the characters. I like to know what obstacles my characters are going to face before I invent them.

    On the other hand, if I’m writing a flash fiction story, I always have to have the character in my head before I come up with the plot. Is that unusual? I’d love to know your views on this.

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    13 responses to “Notes From The Desk”

    1. Crystal avatar
      Crystal

      I know when I either read a book or write a book for fun both character and plots inspire me in their own unique ways but really don’t know which inspires me first

      Reply
    2. my word (s) avatar
      my word (s)

      I think, for me, the two merge together such that I’m not sure which comes first. They’re both so vital to any story, characters generally driving the plot forward.

      Reply
      1. lynnchapmanwriter avatar
        lynnchapmanwriter

        You’re absolutely right, Liz. I just find plot easier in longer fiction.

        Reply
    3. SUSAN BATTEN avatar
      SUSAN BATTEN

      Good question, Lynn – a bit like the chicken and the egg! As I’ve never written any long fiction I’ve never had to think about the plot, but I agree with you, it would be the first step.

      I much prefer short stories and flash fiction – and then I don’t have to think about plot at all.

      Reply
      1. lynnchapmanwriter avatar
        lynnchapmanwriter

        So many differing opinions here – which is great. I love these discussions.

        Reply
    4. willowdot21 avatar
      willowdot21

      Well I am a stream of consciousness writer… I don’t plan anything… If doing a book after a while I beat myself I to submission and make a story board and plot line… Otherwise with everything else I am a pantster! 😃😃😃

      Reply
      1. lynnchapmanwriter avatar
        lynnchapmanwriter

        There’s nothing wrong with being a pantster!

        Reply
    5. Loubythesea61 avatar
      Loubythesea61

      Always character first ! I guess we’re different and that’s what makes writing and reading so varied and enjoyable. Interesting thought though Lynn🙂

      Reply
      1. lynnchapmanwriter avatar
        lynnchapmanwriter

        Yes we’re all different, Lou. and isn’t it wonderful.😊

        Reply
    6. squirreljan avatar
      squirreljan

      Characters for me first always but they don’t always appear in my brain straightaway. I often find that I have an idea for a story, the plot begins to form in my head and then a character will appear. Once that character turns up then any plot I’ve worked on is likely to unravel as she or he takes substance. So, I generally start with an idea and a vague plot. I don’t often weave a plot around a character but then how many series like Miss Marple are plot driven but with recurring central characters.
      When reading, if I don’t engage with the character then the plot could be fantastic but I wouldn’t care less. I like to bring that feeling into my writing.
      But, as with all art, the beauty is in the beholder.

      Reply
      1. lynnchapmanwriter avatar
        lynnchapmanwriter

        Thank you for your thoughts, Janice. When I start to read a book, or watch a TV programme for that matter, if I don’t like, or cannot relate to the main character, I either close the book or switch to another channel.

        Reply
    7. nikidaly70 avatar
      nikidaly70

      When I started writing my first novel, character and setting came first which nudged me towards plot. For my current project, I knew I wanted to write an Agatha Christie for teens, so I have a vague idea of plot, but it’s the character and setting which I’m focussing on and which are the most concrete. I can’t build a character without the setting. And in terms of plot, for both long and short pieces, I usually work out my ending and then work towards it. Weird, eh?! Apparently Hilary Mantel did that too, so I like to think I’m in good company 🤣🤣🤣
      In my favourite books, it’s always the character I remember rather than the story.
      Thanks for a fascinating question, Lynn!

      nx

      Reply
      1. lynnchapmanwriter avatar
        lynnchapmanwriter

        Hi Nicola,
        Thanks for your comments. I am fascinated by the different ways we all have. I also can’t build a character without the setting when writing longer fiction.
        You’re definitely in great company with Hilary Mantel!

        Reply

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