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Evan Miller's avatar

I love the distinction between Troubles nd Conflict that you articulate here. The rock in our shoe might not alter the course of our existence, but it's pretty fucking annoying.

Troubles are also powerful because they are by definition ubiquitous (no one is that Godly, as you mention) - we all have them, and they are unique to each of us. In that way, Troubles are perfect for characterization as they are, for us readers, relatable and distinguishing.

And then there's also the idea that, for characters and real people alike, knowing another's Troubles can create empathy, sympathy, connections, or bonds - which is something most characters (fictional, real) crave.

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Zoe Carada's avatar

Are your posts part of a course you offer, or a book, on fiction writing? Or do you write them just for us here on Substack? These posts are clearly not just the odd musings on this or that aspect, but follow a system, and they bring a system to life, centred on character, story, conflict. As I keep reading, past posts get connected and build a bigger and bigger picture.

As a side remark: I like very much how you name each item of gear that is needed, and capitalize it (Troubles, Silences etc.) I keep sketchy notes of all this, to have them at hand when writing, and these Names help keep such notes short and easy to play with.

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