Passive...

[DeaSis]

Okay, NoteBored has a timed writing challenge up for the next few days.  It's trigger is "wishes".   I'm gonna write a flash story.  (1,000 words or so) with wishes as the trigger, AND my main character ... will.  Be.  Active!

Anyone interested in reading it when I'm done and giving me feedback?

[o_O]

Sure, ok./

[DeaSis]

Thanks!

[Galvatron]

Always happy to give my two cents on what you write if you want

[meg_evonne]

There is a well attended repeat class at the University of Iowa's Summer Writing Festival called "Protags must protag". Although I agree that passive main characters can be interesting, I doubt that most writers can pull it off well. Even Neil Garman's example is from a great writer already published.

As a new writer you might find that to be extremely difficult. I wouldn't try it. Perhaps you need to double check your characters against a check list like this...

Sorry tab isn't letting me drop down  3. What is mu purpose for having a passive main character? 4. Does the passive character add to the story as a major


1. Although my main character is passive, do I generate enough interest in the reader to draw them into my story?
2. Although my main character is passive, does he/she have the capabilty to overcome the obstacles he/she face without the use of god characters?

[DeaSis]

Always happy to give my two cents on what you write if you want

Thanks for the willingness to read.  I have an idea, I'll be writing it today.  Look for me to ping you for a addy to send it within the next few days.

[DeaSis]

There is a well attended repeat class at the University of Iowa's Summer Writing Festival called "Protags must protag". Although I agree that passive main characters can be interesting, I doubt that most writers can pull it off well. Even Neil Garman's example is from a great writer already published.

As a new writer you might find that to be extremely difficult. I wouldn't try it. Perhaps you need to double check your characters against a check list like this...

Sorry tab isn't letting me drop down  3. What is mu purpose for having a passive main character? 4. Does the passive character add to the story as a major


1. Although my main character is passive, do I generate enough interest in the reader to draw them into my story?
2. Although my main character is passive, does he/she have the capabilty to overcome the obstacles he/she face without the use of god characters?

I like the checklist.  It's a more objective way of assessing the story than "is it working for me?"  So Thanks.  I'm going to print that out and stick it on the wall where I write.  I really appreciate it.

[the neurovore of Zur-En-Aargh]

1. Although my main character is passive, do I generate enough interest in the reader to draw them into my story?

If there were a way of figuring out in advance whether I generated enough interest in the reader, in pretty much any circumstances, I'd be a much happier bunny.

[DeaSis]

Okay, I stalled on writing this because I wanted to write something with action and adventure!  I wanted daring do! 

Instead, this other idea sprung to mind.  It's not action (again!)  But some of you tell me that it doesn't always have to be in order to be effective.

Anyway, this story idea lodged there, refusing to let me put it aside.  I couldn't write anything else til it was done and out of the chute. 

Maybe this will be the prologue (back story) that lets me go into an uban fantasy genre where spiritual warfare is played out against fallen predators.  It's world building told through a conversation.

For the moment though, it's a stand alone scene of around 1,500 words.  It honestly won't take you long if you would like to read it and give me feedback.  Send me the email addy you want me to use in Private Message here on the board today and I'll send you a copy.  Each of you will get various versions as I'll send the one that is most polished when you ping me.

Ask yourself those qualifying questions that we've been discussing and tell me if my passive character is compelling enough to hold your attention.  Do I hook you in the beginning?  Are my characters believable?  Does it feel satisfying for an ending?

In advance I'll say thank you to all who contributed to this thread, and an even bigger thank you with sloppy kisses  to all who read and comment for me!

_{(It never feels real to me until someone else reads it...)}