Monday, November 20, 2023

Writing Ramble: No Four Dimensional Characters

 Four dimensional characters aren't things. I've seen people suggest theories on how to get a fourth dimension of characters.

But bluntly put, three-dimensional is a term to stand-in for something good. What people want is nuance and some level of complexity. Three-dimensional is an artistic, not a scientific (well not in this sense at least) term. 

If I tell you "your characters are one-dimensional" and then leave and hit the Hookah with my hydra friend who takes up all the other pipe heads, you won't have learned anything. What I should say is that your characters are lacking complexity. 

Seeking this "fourth dimensionality" of characterization is trying to extend meaningless jargon. An exercise in futility. 

What you should be asking is how your characters slot into your story. Goals. Motivations. Purpose. 

Stop seeking the award. The title. The name. 

Look for the important part.

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