Imagine this: when you're gone, readers will remember your writing most for just one of these things: your characters, your plots, your settings, or your style. Which one (only one!) would you prefer over the rest? Why?
Being a perfectionist, you'd think I'd want to be remembered for all four because that would make me perfect, right? A literary genius... Okay, you can stop laughing now. I'm not crazy enough to think that's a possibility. Not yet, anyway. ;)
And though I strive for perfection in all areas, this was actually an easy one for me. I love a good, character-driven story. You know the ones that leave you longing for more when you hit that last page, and you wish could stay with them a little bit longer? That's what I want my readers to remember. Great characters—loveable or not—that come to life on the page and stay with you long after you've finished reading.
What do you want to be remembered for when you're gone?
Be sure to check out what Shaun wants his readers to remember and head over to Cole's blog tomorrow for her answer. And CONGRATS! to fellow blog-chainer and all-around awesome person, Christina Fonseca, on the release of her book, Emotional Instensity in Gifted Students!
Though I love great characters, as well, I think I'd want to be most remembered for my style. I'd love to be a great wordsmith.
ReplyDeleteI love how you point out characters that aren't likeable are just as important. ;)
ReplyDeleteGreat answer!If your characters don't make an impression than your story certainly won't.
ReplyDeleteIt's OK to strive for perfection. You're sure to learn a lot along the way. :)
ReplyDeleteIt would be great if we could do all four, but I agree characters are most important.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the shout out Abby! And I love that you are a perfectionist!
ReplyDeleteOkay, thirty lashes with a wet noodle for you, young lady!
ReplyDeleteJust kidding. You're right though, characters are best when they are memorable. Nice post.
Agreed about unlikable characters being important. Great answer :)
ReplyDeleteI like how you say that you want your characters to be remembered loved or not. Great!
ReplyDeleteYeah, I want to be remembered because people can't get enough of my characters, and start writing fair to middling fan-fiction about them. ;)
ReplyDeleteFun post!