Crafting Relatable, Unlikable Characters in Fiction

When writing fiction, one of the most debated questions is whether characters need to be likable. While some argue that characters must be likable to maintain the reader's interest, others propose that relatability is actually more important. This article delves into how to create unlikable yet compelling main characters, providing insights that align with Google's SEO standards.

Unlikable Characters: Understanding Their Motivations

Characters do not have to be universally liked to captivate readers. It is more crucial for the reader to understand their motivations and the reasons behind their actions. For instance, a character might do something despicable that seems unjustifiable to others. However, when the reader understands the background and the circumstances, the character can become relatable, even if they remain unlikable.

Consider a character who insults their aunt during an argument. The aunt, who has sacrificed much for the character, is left heartbroken and the reader is confused by the character's behavior. However, by revealing that the aunt tried to give the baby up when he was a child due to her inability to care for him, a whole new perspective emerges. The character, who is a teenager, doesn't fully grasp the depth of the pain and the burden.

Empathy and Relatability Through Complex Backstories

Complex backstories can make characters more relatable, even if they are unlikable. When a character's background is detailed, the reader can begin to understand the source of their actions. This understanding fosters empathy and makes the character's behavior more believable. For example, a character who has experienced significant hardship, such as losing a family member or suffering through abuse, might act out of anger or grief. These emotions, even if they result in negative actions, can be understood if they are rooted in a complex and painful past.

Avoiding Stupidly Unlikable Characters

While complexity can add depth to a character, it is essential to avoid creating characters who are simply unlikable for the sake of it. Unlikable characters should have a logical reason for their actions, even if the behavior is flawed. Sensible and explainable actions, even if they are not positive, can still be compelling. For example, a character who torments others might do so because they were also tormented as a child, or because they know no other way to cope with their trauma.

Readers can follow such characters if they feel a connection to their struggles and motivations. It is the flat or unrealistic characters that often fail to engage readers. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the character's background when crafting their actions and behavior.

Examples and Insights

When a character's backstory and motivations are well-crafted, even the most unlikable character can become captivating. For instance, in literature and cinema, characters like Scar from Disney’s "The Lion King," or Tony Stark/Iron Man from the Marvel universe, are often viewed as unlikable, but their deep-rooted motivations and personal struggles make them intriguing to follow. In both cases, the characters’ actions are understandable within the context of their backgrounds, making their journey and arcs compelling to audiences and readers alike.

Ultimately, creating a character who remains unlikable solely for shock value or tension is not as effective as crafting a character that resonates on a deeper level. By providing a compelling narrative and a relatable background, even the most unlikable characters can captivate readers and draw them into the story.

Remember, in the world of fiction, complex and relatable characters are key to engaging readers and crafting a compelling narrative. It is through understanding, empathy, and relatability that unlikable characters can become compelling.